Unlocking the Power of LinkedIn Private Mode: How to Stay Connected While Keeping Your Privacy

Are you tired of recruiters constantly pestering you on LinkedIn? Are you worried about your boss finding out you’re looking for a new job? Or maybe you just don’t want your ex to know you’ve moved on. 

Whatever the reason, it’s completely understandable to want a bit of privacy on LinkedIn. And that’s where “LinkedIn Private Mode” comes in.

Let’s face it, LinkedIn can be a bit of a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it’s a great platform for networking and job hunting. But on the other hand, it can be a bit of a nightmare if you’re not careful. That’s why I’m going to tell you all about “LinkedIn Private Mode” and how it can be a lifesaver for those who want a bit of privacy on the platform.

What is LinkedIn Private Mode?

LinkedIn Private Mode, also known as “Open Profile” or “Open Candidacy,” is a feature that allows you to control who can see your LinkedIn activity, such as your job search, connections, and profile views. It’s a way to turn off your public profile and make it visible only to your connections.

How to Turn on LinkedIn Private Mode:

Turning on LinkedIn Private Mode is pretty simple. Here’s how you do it:

1. Go to your LinkedIn profile
2. Click on the three dots at the top of your profile
3. Select “Settings & Privacy“
4. Scroll down to the “Privacy” section
5. Under the “Profile” tab, you’ll see the option to turn on “Open Profile” or “Open Candidacy.”
6. Toggle the switch to “On.”
7. Your profile will now only be visible to your connections

Pro-Tip: You should also turn off your “Who’s viewed your profile” settings to ensure your profile views are not being recorded.

Pros and Cons of LinkedIn Private Mode

Like anything in life, LinkedIn Private Mode has its pros and cons. Here’s a breakdown:

Pros:

• You have more control over who can see your activity on LinkedIn
• Recruiters and headhunters can only reach out to you if they’re in your network
• You can be more selective about who you connect with
• Less chance of your boss or colleagues finding out you’re looking for a new job

Cons:

• Your profile will be less visible to potential employers and recruiters.
• It’s harder for people to find you, even if they’re searching for someone with your skills and experience. You may miss out on opportunities that come from outside your network.

How to Make the Most of LinkedIn Private Mode

Even though LinkedIn Private Mode limits your profile’s visibility, there are still ways to make the most of it.

1. Optimize your profile for search: Make sure your profile is filled out and uses keywords that align with your skills and experience. It will increase the chances of people in your network finding you when searching for someone with your skills.
2. Utilize your network: Your network is your biggest asset regarding job searching on LinkedIn. Reach out to your connections and let them know you’re open to new opportunities. They may know of an opening that’s a perfect fit for you.
3. Be active in groups: Join groups relevant to your industry and start participating in the discussions. Not only will this help you stay up to date with the latest trends and news in your field, but it will also give you a chance to connect with potential employers or recruiters.
4. Use LinkedIn’s other features: LinkedIn has many other features that can help you find new opportunities, such as the LinkedIn Learning platform, where you can take online courses to improve your skills and make your profile stand out.
5. Be selective about your connections: Remember that with LinkedIn Private Mode, you have more control over who can see your activity, so be selective about who you connect with. Only connect with people you know and trust or people who can provide value to your career.

The Bottom Line:

LinkedIn Private Mode is a great way to take back control of your privacy on the platform, but it’s important to understand that it does come with some limitations. By being strategic and utilizing the platform’s other features, you can still make the most of LinkedIn Private Mode and find new opportunities. And if you want help with marketing your business online, feel free to reach out to us, and we’ll be happy to help.