LinkedIn is a powerful advertising and networking tool for business owners across a variety of sectors – as well as those who want to work for them. If you’ve used LinkedIn since 2003, or have just used it since the beginning of your career – you’ve probably made hundreds, even thousands, of connections during this time.
And, along the way, you’ve likely connected with people you never speak to, or don’t even know. If this sounds like you, you might be due a connection clearout.
It could seem counterproductive, but having too many connections on LinkedIn can actually be pretty disadvantageous. So, if you’re looking to update your profile, and want to know how to remove connections on LinkedIn, take a look at our blog below.
Read on to find out more about the benefits of removing some connections, the ways to do so, and the difference between removing connections and unfollowing them on LinkedIn.
How to remove connections on LinkedIn
There are two ways you can remove a connection on LinkedIn: via their LinkedIn page or their connection page.
Via their LinkedIn page
To remove a connection via someone’s LinkedIn page, look for the introduction section. There will be a More button on this part of the page.
Once you click it, it will reveal a Remove Connection button.
After you’ve selected this option, the status will change to Connection Removed. This process is the same if you’re on the mobile app.
Via their connections page
To remove a connection through the connections page, look for the My Network Icon at the top of you or your business’s LinkedIn homepage. Below your profile name, there will be a link that shows how many connections you have.
Search for the person you’re trying to disconnect from, then select the More icon next to their icon and click Remove connection.
Can you remove LinkedIn connections without them knowing it?
Yes and no.
Whenever you remove a LinkedIn connection, the other person won’t be notified. But, if they have premium they might be able to see that you viewed their profile recently and that you’re no longer a connection.
Why should you remove your LinkedIn connections?
There are several reasons why you should remove LinkedIn connections. For example, it can:
Boost relevancy
If you’ve been on LinkedIn for a long time, you’ll likely have built up a fair amount of connections. But after years of connecting with random people, your feed and network will become less relevant to you.
That’s why removing old connections is important, so you can stay connected with like-minded people who share thoughts relevant to your industry.
Increase awareness of valuable expertise
When you were a new user of the app – connecting with everyone and everything might have been an appealing way to boost your profile. But, it can clog up your newsfeed with posts not related to you or your sector. That’s why you should ensure you have a connection clearout, whenever you feel your network is becoming less valuable to your development.
When you decide to remove connections, try to stay in touch with people in the same industry as yourself – who are fairly active on LinkedIn, and will add value to your feed when they post.
And, for more information on maintaining your LinkedIn profile – including the do’s and don’ts, check out our blog.
Prevent spammy notifications
Removing unwanted connections on LinkedIn can also prevent you from receiving spam. This might be through messaging on the app, or from invites to events or groups that aren’t relevant to yourself.
When removing connections, look at the people who create a lot of spam in your inbox and block you from seeing relevant messages and posts on your feed. Stay connected with those you gravitate towards and/or interact with regularly.
How to Remove Connections On LinkedIn: Other FAQs
Can you block people on LinkedIn?
Yes, you can block people on LinkedIn. To do so, go to the person’s profile and click the More button below their profile picture. Select Report/Block from the list, then Block (their name) from the list that pops up.
But, only block someone if they have done something to make you uncomfortable – such as harassing you. Unfollowing or removing the connection is the better option when it comes to removing someone who simply doesn’t add value to your network. Plus, you don’t want to burn a bridge with any individual who might help you in the future.
What’s the difference between disconnecting with someone and unfollowing them on LinkedIn?
When you unfollow someone on LinkedIn, you don’t remove the connection, you just stop seeing their posts on your feed. It’s a great way to – in other words – mute someone, without causing drama by removing the connection with them.
So, if you were obliged to connect with a friend or family member, who doesn’t add anything of value to your feed, you can unfollow them. Best of all, they won’t know you’ve done so. To unfollow someone on LinkedIn, visit their profile and click on the following button. This will remove your follow.
Failing to make the most of your LinkedIn marketing strategy? Get in touch with StraightIn’s expert team today
Is your LinkedIn marketing strategy not bringing in the results you need? When you work with StraightIn we can help you achieve your goals.
Our team of experts benefits from a wealth of knowledge regarding LinkedIn marketing strategies; working alongside a range of industry players across a variety of sectors.
Our services include Outreach Marketing, LinkedIn Advertising, Content Marketing, and Personal Branding.
Get in touch with us today to find out more about how we can help you. Call 0161 518 4740, or email grow@straight-in.co.uk.
