There are a few main reasons why some LinkedIn users may show “Message” instead of “Connect” on their profiles:
1. They’ve reached their connection limit
LinkedIn allows members to have up to 30,000 connections on their account. Once a user reaches this limit, LinkedIn automatically switches their Connect button to say Message instead. This prevents the user from exceeding the connection cap.
Having 30,000+ connections is rare, but possible for highly networked professionals like recruiters, salespeople, marketers, and executives. If you see Message on their profile, it likely means they’ve maxed out their allotted connections.
2. They’ve chosen to selectively limit connections
Some members choose to be selective about who they connect with on LinkedIn. Rather than accept connection requests indiscriminately, they prefer to vet requests first and only accept those from people they know and trust.
Switching their profile setting to Message rather than Connect allows them to privately message new connections first. After a brief intro chat, they can decide whether to accept the connection request.
High-level executives and celebrities tend to be more selective in this way to maintain privacy and avoid getting inundated with requests from strangers.
3. They want to limit recruiters and sales outreach
Another reason some professionals display Message instead of Connect is to limit unsolicited outreach from recruiters, headhunters, and salespeople. This setting makes it harder for them to receive connection requests.
Some job seekers and business contacts get overwhelmed with messages from recruiters about job opportunities or from sales reps trying to pitch services. The Message setting allows them to connect on their terms.
4. They don’t actively use LinkedIn
Members who’ve abandoned their LinkedIn accounts often have Message remaining as the default profile setting. If someone doesn’t regularly access LinkedIn, they likely won’t bother updating settings like this.
So you may see Message on the profiles of users who’ve stepped away from actively engaging on the platform. They aren’t maintaining their account preferences.
5. They want to appear more exclusive and in-demand
In some cases, displaying Message instead of Connect can be an attempt to seem more exclusive, in-demand, or elite on LinkedIn. It gives the impression that not just anyone can connect with that person.
While not necessarily the intention for most members, some use Message settings to cultivate an air of exclusivity and position themselves as a premium networker.
How to interact with “Message” profiles
If you come across a profile that says Message instead of Connect, here are some tips for engaging with them:
- Send a message explaining who you are and why you’d like to connect. Reference any common connections or groups you share.
- Make your message personal and thoughtful. Avoid generic invitations to connect.
- Mention shared interests, associations, or experiences you have in common.
- Follow up if they don’t respond after a week or two.
- Respect their settings if they decline your request to connect.
- Avoid spamming them with connection requests or messages.
With persistence and meaningful outreach, you still have a chance of connecting with Message profiles. But engage them respectfully and don’t take it personally if they ignore your message.
Changing your own LinkedIn profile from Message to Connect
If you want your own profile to display the Connect button instead of Message, follow these steps:
- Go to your LinkedIn profile and click “Edit public profile & URL” below your profile photo.
- Click the “Preferences” tab.
- Under “Profile viewing options”, toggle “Let people know you’re open to job opportunities” to “Yes” or “No”.
- Under “Profile viewing options”, toggle “Let people know you’re open to mentoring opportunities” to “Yes” or “No”.
- Under “Advanced profile settings” toggle “Show “Message” button instead of “Connect”” to “No”.
- Click “Save” at the bottom of the page.
It may take a few hours for LinkedIn to refresh this profile setting. But soon your Connect button should reappear. Use this selectively to avoid getting inundated with connection invitations.
Key Takeaways
- The “Message” setting limits who can directly connect with your profile.
- It’s commonly used by LinkedIn members who are highly networked, selective about connections, or want to reduce unsolicited outreach.
- You can still attempt to connect with Message profiles by sending personalized messages explaining who you are.
- But always respect the user’s preferences if they decline your request or ignore your message.
- You can toggle your own profile back to “Connect” in Preferences to be more approachable.
