Open Profile LinkedIn feature allows any member on the platform to send you a direct message, without needing to connect with you first. This opens up new networking and outreach opportunities.
1. Open Profile on LinkedIn allows any member to message you, even if you’re not connected.
2. It’s ideal for job seekers, freelancers, salespeople, and active networkers.
3. The feature is currently only available to Premium subscribers.
4. An Open Profile can increase relevant messages, but also irrelevant ones.
5. Best practices include optimizing your profile and managing expectations.
What is LinkedIn Open Profile Capability?
An Open Profile on LinkedIn removes the limitation that messages can only be sent between connected members. It gives anyone the ability to message your profile, even if you don’t know them.
The main benefit is increased visibility and accessibility for networking. With an Open Profile enabled, you can receive relevant messages, inquiries, and opportunities from people outside of your connections.
It also saves contacts a step when wanting to reach out, as they don’t have to connect with you first. This can lead to more leads and conversations.
Overall, opening your LinkedIn profile expands your exposure and makes you more discoverable.
Who Can Benefit from an Open Profile on LinkedIn?
While any member can leverage Open Profile, certain groups stand to gain the most:
Job Seekers and Freelancers
For those looking for work, an Open Profile allows direct contact from more recruiters and hiring managers. Instead of waiting for potential employers to connect, you can take a proactive approach and get discovered.
Similarly, freelancers and consultants can land new clients more easily. Showcasing your Open Profile means you can get inquiries from companies you’ve never interacted with.
Sales Professionals and Business Developers
Salespeople know that an open line of communication is key for driving new business. Rather than waiting for a connection request, an Open Profile means you can receive direct and timely leads.
It also expands your visibility beyond your immediate contacts, letting you tap into new prospects earlier in the sales process.
Active Networkers
For those focused on expanding their professional circles, opening your profile is a logical step. It welcomes new perspectives and people into your network more freely.
You can gain industry insights from up-and-coming connections that you might not have been linked with otherwise.
Instructions to Enable or Disable Open Profile
LinkedIn’s Open Profile capability is currently only available to Premium account holders. To enable it:
- Click theĀ “Me”Ā icon at the top of your LinkedIn homepage.
- ClickĀ “View Profile“.
- Click theĀ “Edit”Ā icon in the introduction section.
- Click theĀ DropdownĀ icon next to the gold LinkedIn Premium profile badge on the upper left in theĀ “Edit intro”Ā pop-up window.
- From the dropdown, switch the toggle right underĀ “Open Profile”Ā to allow anyone on LinkedIn to contact you directly for free, even if they aren’t connected with you.
- Switch the toggle to the left to disableĀ Open Profile.
- Save changes.
That’s all it takes! You can repeat these steps at any time to disable open messaging if needed. Keep in mind that disabling the feature won’t retroactively remove your messaging history.
Best Practices for Leveraging Open Profile on LinkedIn
To get the most out of an Open Profile, focus on these areas:
Profile Optimization
Put your best foot forward by ensuring your profile is complete and professional. Highlight relevant skills, achievements, and background details.
Also, consider adding keyword-rich headers and summaries so prospects can quickly determine if you’d be a good fit.
Managing Open Messages
An Open Profile may drive more inquiries, so have a system to organize incoming messages. Using LinkedIn filters can help automatically sort opportunities for quick follow-up.
Be prompt in responding, and set expectations upfront regarding typical response times or ongoing availability. An organized, reliable presence earns trust.
Strategic Outreach
Don’t rely solely on an Open Profileācombine inbound inquiries with targeted outreach. Identify where your offerings align with individual profiles and take the initiative to start meaningful conversations.
The same filters that organize incoming messages can help you segment and methodically connect with relevant members.
Potential Open Profile Drawbacks to Consider
While Open Profile brings benefits, it also comes with risks:
Increase in Irrelevant Messages
Opening your profile means managing more unqualified inquiries and spam. Utilize filtering tools, and don’t feel pressured to respond to every request.
It’s appropriate to ignore messages clearly out of scope or from untrustworthy contacts. Find a balance between openness and self-preservation.
Privacy Considerations
Having an openly contactable profile means relinquishing some privacy. While LinkedIn has security measures to report harassment, an Open Profile still exposes you more publicly.
Each member needs to weigh the pros and cons here. There is some risk of unwanted attention or negative interactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, currently only Premium subscribers can enable the Open Profile feature and permissionless messaging.
Can I restrict who messages me while keeping Open Profile on?
Not directly. You can screen messages with filters, but cannot limit them by profile, industry, or connection level.
If I turn off Open Profile later, will my previous messages be saved?
Don’t worry, disabling the feature won’t retroactively delete any messages already received. Your history remains intact.
Conclusion
LinkedIn’s Open Profile gives adventurous networkers a powerful optionāincreased exposure and messaging, without prior connection.
It can amplify opportunities for jobs, clients, or helpful insights. Approach thoughtfully, optimize your profile, and manage this expanded access carefully.
The tradeoff for heightened visibility is managing more volume and some loss of privacy. But for many professionals, the reward justifies the risk. Consider if an Open Profile works for your needs.
