On LinkedIn, most people have the standard option to “Connect” with others on the platform. However, some profiles instead show an option to “Follow” that person. There are a few key reasons why a LinkedIn profile may show “Follow” rather than “Connect”:
They have reached the connection limit
LinkedIn allows users to have up to 30,000 connections. Once a person reaches that limit, LinkedIn automatically switches their profile from showing “Connect” to “Follow.” This is because they have reached the maximum number of direct connections the platform allows.
They have set their profile to “Follow only”
Some LinkedIn users choose to set their profiles to “Follow only” rather than allow connections. When this setting is enabled, their profile will only show the “Follow” option rather than giving the choice to connect. This allows them to still engage with others on LinkedIn without forming direct connections.
They don’t accept connection requests
In some cases, a user may not be accepting any new connection requests at the moment. LinkedIn will automatically switch to showing “Follow” for profiles of people who frequently reject connection requests. This avoids repeatedly prompting others to send connection requests that will likely be ignored.
Why Would Someone Choose “Follow Only”?
There are a few common reasons why a LinkedIn user may intentionally set their profile to “Follow only” rather than accept connections:
To limit their number of connections
Some people prefer to keep their LinkedIn connections capped at a certain number. For example, high-profile individuals may not want to connect with everyone who sends a request. By using “Follow only,” they can still interact and share content with a wider audience without continually expanding their connections.
To focus on broadcasting content
People who want to use LinkedIn primarily as a broadcasting platform may opt for “Follow.” This allows them to share content, ideas, and insights with followers without needing to maintain two-way interactions with connections. For example, an influencer may want to disseminate information without making direct reciprocal connections.
To segment their network
Enabling “Follow only” also allows segmentation between connections and general followers. Some people want to reserve connections for closer professional contacts and keep a broader follower base separate. This gives them more control over the type of information shared with each group.
To limit notifications and messages
Remaining in “Follow only” mode reduces notifications and messages from the wider LinkedIn community. Followers can only like and comment on posts – they can’t directly message those in “Follow only” mode. This allows more broadcasting ability without as much incoming communication.
Options When You See “Follow” Instead of “Connect”
If you come across a LinkedIn profile that shows the “Follow” option instead of the usual “Connect,” you have a couple options:
Send a follow request
Following the person will allow you to see their posts and activity in your LinkedIn feed. You won’t have them included in your connections or be able to message them directly. But it enables you to stay up to date with their public posts.
Send a connection request
In some cases, the “Follow” setting is not intentional on their part or they may be open to making certain connections. You can try sending a regular connection request. Include a customized message explaining who you are and why you’d like to connect. They can then decide whether to accept the connection or remain in “Follow only” mode.
Look for other ways to get introduced
If you share common connections, you could reach out to those connections and ask for an email introduction to the person you want to connect with. Finding alternative avenues to make a connection can be more effective than a standard LinkedIn request, especially when someone is limiting their connections.
Tips for Using “Follow Only” on LinkedIn
Here are some tips if you choose to switch your own LinkedIn profile to “Follow only”:
State it in your profile
Add a line in your summary or intro section explaining that you are in “Follow only” mode. This sets clear expectations that you are not looking for new connections.
Personalize selective connection acceptances
Consider making some exceptions by accepting connection requests periodically from people who personalize their ask. Maintaining some connections can improve how your profile and content are received.
Engage with your followers
Don’t just broadcast content. Make sure to also like, comment, and reply to your followers’ posts and activity. This cultivates ongoing two-way engagement.
Send private messages to key contacts
You can still send private InMail messages to recipients you have permissions for, allowing you to maintain closer ties with certain contacts.
The Pros and Cons of a “Follow Only” Profile
Here is an overview of some potential advantages and disadvantages to making your profile “Follow only” rather than open to connections:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Limits incoming requests and messages | Reduces ability to message connections directly |
| Gives more control over audience | May limit number of people seeing your content |
| Allows broadcasting without ongoing communication | Harder to cultivate closer relationships |
| Segments network between connections and followers | Prevents full access to connections’ networks |
| Reduces notifications and potential distractions | Limits ability to interact with followers’ content |
Conclusion
The choice between connecting with others on LinkedIn or remaining in “Follow only” mode comes down to personal preferences and goals on the platform. For those wanting to focus on outbound broadcasting, limiting inbound requests, and designating separate tiers in their network, “Follow only” can be advantageous. But it prevents full reciprocal interaction with a wider professional network. Most LinkedIn users allow connections to foster expanded reach and relationship-building options. However, for some, shifting to “Follow only” improves their experience and achieves their intended purpose on the platform.