LinkedIn’s private mode allows users to view other profiles anonymously, without leaving a trace. This feature can be useful for job seekers, recruiters, or anyone wanting to browse profiles discreetly. Let’s explore how to enable and use private mode effectively.
Enabling Private Mode on LinkedIn
You can activate private mode on both desktop and mobile versions of LinkedIn. Here’s how to do it:
On Desktop
Step 1: Log into your LinkedIn account and click on your profile picture in the top right corner.
Step 2: Select “Settings & Privacy” from the dropdown menu.
Step 3: Click on the “Visibility” tab in the left sidebar.
Step 4: Under “Visibility of your profile & network,” find “Profile viewing options” and click “Change.”
Step 5: Choose “Private mode” from the available options.
On Mobile
Step 1: Open the LinkedIn app and tap your profile picture in the top left corner.
Step 2: Tap “Settings” at the bottom of the menu.
Step 3: Select “Visibility” under “Account preferences.”
Step 4: Tap “Profile viewing options.”
Step 5: Choose “Private mode” from the list.
Understanding LinkedIn’s Viewing Options
LinkedIn offers three profile viewing options:
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Your name and headline (Public): This is the default setting. When you view someone’s profile, they’ll see your name and headline in their “Who’s viewed your profile” section.
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Private profile characteristics: This semi-private option shows some information about you (like job title and industry) without revealing your name or photo.
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Private mode: This fully anonymous option only shows that “A LinkedIn member” viewed the profile, with no identifying information.
Benefits of Using Private Mode
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Discreet job searching: If you’re exploring new opportunities while currently employed, private mode helps keep your activity confidential.
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Competitor research: Businesses can anonymously study competitor profiles and strategies without alerting them.
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Recruiter tool: Recruiters can initially research potential candidates without immediately revealing their interest.
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Privacy protection: For those concerned about online privacy, private mode offers an extra layer of anonymity.
Drawbacks of Private Mode
While private mode offers benefits, it also comes with some limitations:
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Loss of networking opportunities: When browsing anonymously, you miss out on potential connections who might have reached out after seeing you viewed their profile.
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Reduced profile views: Using private mode may result in fewer people viewing your profile in return.
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Limited “Who’s viewed your profile” insights: When using private mode, you can’t see who’s viewed your profile unless you have a Premium account.
Best Practices for Using Private Mode
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Use selectively: Switch to private mode for specific research sessions rather than keeping it on permanently.
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Balance privacy and networking: Consider using semi-private mode to maintain some level of visibility while still protecting your identity.
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Leverage Premium features: If you frequently use private mode but still want insights, consider upgrading to a Premium account.
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Be mindful of ethical considerations: While private mode is a tool, it’s important to use it responsibly and not for unethical purposes.
Private Mode for Free vs. Premium Users
Both free and Premium LinkedIn users can access private mode. However, Premium users have an advantage:
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Free accounts: When using private mode, you cannot see who has viewed your profile.
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Premium accounts: You can browse in private mode while still seeing who has viewed your profile (except for other users also in private mode).
How to Turn Off Private Mode
To disable private mode and return to public viewing:
Step 1: Follow the same steps as enabling private mode in the “Settings & Privacy” section.
Step 2: Under “Profile viewing options,” select “Your name and headline” instead of “Private mode.”
LinkedIn’s private mode offers a valuable tool for discreet profile viewing, but it’s important to weigh the benefits against the potential loss of networking opportunities. Use it strategically to maintain privacy when needed while still leveraging LinkedIn’s full potential for professional connections.