What You Need to Know Before Cancelling LinkedIn Premium

What You Need to Know Before Cancelling LinkedIn Premium

LinkedIn Premium offers several features to help you advance your career or business.

However, if you’re thinking about canceling your LinkedIn Premium subscription, there are a few important things you should know before making the decision.

In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about LinkedIn Premium, including its features, its value, how to cancel it, and what happens after cancellation.

We’ll also discuss alternatives to a LinkedIn premium account and provide tips on making the most of your LinkedIn account, whether you decide to keep your premium subscription.

Understanding LinkedIn Premium Features

LinkedIn Premium has different plans, each tailored to specific professional needs. Understanding these plans can help determine whether LinkedIn or Premium membership is worth the investment.

1. LinkedIn Premium Career: This plan is designed for job seekers. It includes features like:

• InMail credits allow you to message anyone on LinkedIn, even if you’re not connected.
• LinkedIn Learning courses: Access a wide range of courses to help you develop new skills.
• Who’s viewed your profile: Insights into who has viewed your profile, which can be useful for networking.
• Job insights: Detailed information about job listings and how you compare to other applicants.

2. LinkedIn Premium Business: This plan is suited for business professionals looking to grow their network and business. It provides:

• Extended network insights: See more detailed information about your network and connections.
• Additional InMail credits: More opportunities to reach out to potential business contacts.
• Business insights on company pages: Access company pages that can help with business development.

3. Sales Navigator Core: This plan is for sales professionals and includes:

• Advanced search features: Find leads with more precision using advanced filters.
• Lead recommendations: Suggestions for potential leads based on your preferences.
• CRM integrations: Integrate LinkedIn with your customer relationship management system for better lead management.

4. Recruiter Lite: This plan is for recruiters and hiring managers and offers:

• Access to LinkedIn’s talent pool: Search through LinkedIn’s vast database of professionals.
• Advanced search filters: Narrow down your search for candidates using specific criteria.
• More InMail credits: Reach out to potential candidates directly through InMail.

Assessing the Value of LinkedIn Premium

Before you want to cancel LinkedIn Premium, consider the value it provides you. Here are some questions to ask yourself:

1. Do you use InMail credits regularly?: LinkedIn Premium can be very valuable if you frequently use InMail to reach out to people outside your network.

InMail allows you to bypass the restriction of only messaging your direct connections, which can be crucial for networking and business development.

2. Do you benefit from LinkedIn Learning courses?: LinkedIn Learning offers a wide range of courses to help you develop new skills and advance your career.

You might want to keep your subscription if you’re actively using these courses to improve your professional abilities.

3. Do you need insights into who views your profile?: Knowing who’s viewed your profile can provide valuable networking opportunities. If you’re job hunting or looking to make new business connections, this feature can help you identify potential opportunities.

4. Do you need advanced search features?: Sales Navigator Core and Recruiter Lite offer advanced search features to help you find leads and candidates more efficiently. The subscription might be worth it if you rely on these features for your work.

5. Are you actively seeking job opportunities? LinkedIn Premium Career provides tools that can give you an edge in your job search, such as comparing you to other applicants and getting detailed insights into job listings.

How to Cancel LinkedIn Premium

If you’ve decided that LinkedIn Premium no longer offers the value you need, you can cancel your paid subscription by following these steps:

1. Log into your LinkedIn account: Ensure you’re logged into the account with the premium subscription.
2. Go to your account settings: Click on your profile picture in the top right corner and select “Settings & Privacy” from the dropdown menu.
3. Manage your premium account: In the “Account” tab, find the “Subscriptions & Payments” section and click on “Manage Premium account”.
4. Cancel your subscription: Follow the prompts to cancel your LinkedIn Premium subscription. You may be asked to provide a reason for cancellation.
5. Confirm your cancellation: Ensure you receive a confirmation email or message indicating your subscription has been successfully canceled.

What Happens After You Cancel LinkedIn Premium

When you cancel LinkedIn Premium, you’ll lose access to certain premium features at the end of your current billing cycle. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Loss of InMail credits: You won’t be able to send messages to people outside your network without using LinkedIn’s standard messaging. This can limit your ability to reach out to potential contacts and opportunities.
2. No more LinkedIn Learning courses: Your access to LinkedIn Learning courses will be restricted. If you’ve started any courses, complete them before your subscription ends.
3. Limited profile views: You’ll only see the last five people who viewed your profile. This can reduce your ability to identify potential networking opportunities.
4. Standard search filters: You’ll lose access to advanced search filters and recommendations in Sales Navigator Core and Recruiter Lite. This can make finding leads and candidates more time-consuming.
5. Loss of premium insights: You won’t have access to detailed insights about job listings, company pages, or your network. This can make it harder to gather information that could be valuable for your career or business.

Alternatives to LinkedIn Premium

If you decide that LinkedIn Premium isn’t right for you but still want to leverage LinkedIn for your professional needs, here are some alternatives:

1. Free LinkedIn account: While it lacks many premium features, a free LinkedIn account still allows you to build your network, apply for jobs, and engage with content. You can still make valuable connections and participate in industry discussions.
2. Third-party learning platforms: If you used LinkedIn Learning, consider alternatives like Coursera, Udemy, or Khan Academy. These platforms offer various courses, often at lower costs or even free.
3. Networking groups: To expand your connections, join industry-specific networking groups on LinkedIn and other social media platforms. These groups can provide valuable insights, discussions, and opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals.
4. Professional associations: Many industries have professional associations that offer networking opportunities, job boards, and professional development resources. Consider joining one relevant to your field.

Maximizing Your LinkedIn Free Account

Even without LinkedIn Premium subscriptions, you can still make the most of LinkedIn with a free account. Here are some tips:

1. Optimize your profile: Ensure your profile is complete and up-to-date. Use a professional photo, write a compelling summary, and list all relevant experience and skills. Highlight your achievements and use keywords relevant to your industry.
2. Engage with content: Like, comment, and share posts relevant to your industry. This helps you stay visible in your network and can attract new connections. Regularly posting your content can also establish you as a thought leader in your field.
3. Join groups: Participate in LinkedIn groups related to your field to connect with like-minded professionals. Discussions can help you build your network and stay informed about industry trends.
4. Use search filters: Although you won’t have access to advanced filters, you can still use basic search filters to find people and opportunities. Use the search bar to look for potential connections, job listings, and companies of interest.
5. Send connection requests: Contact people you meet professionally and ask them to connect on LinkedIn. Personalize your connection requests to increase the chances of acceptance.
6. Utilize job alerts: Set up job alerts for positions you’re interested in. This way, you’ll be notified when new opportunities that match your criteria are posted.

Potential Drawbacks of Cancelling LinkedIn Premium

While canceling a subscription service to LinkedIn Premium can save you money, it also comes with potential drawbacks:

1. Reduced visibility: Without LinkedIn Premium, your profile might be less visible to recruiters and potential business partners. Premium members often appear higher in search results.
2. Limited messaging: You’ll have fewer opportunities to message people outside your network. This can make it harder to reach out to potential contacts and opportunities.
3. Missed learning opportunities: You’ll lose access to LinkedIn Learning courses, which can be valuable for professional development. Consider alternative learning platforms to continue your education.
4. Less insight into your network: You’ll have less information about who’s viewing your profile and less detailed analytics about your network. This can make it harder to identify potential networking opportunities.
5. Fewer job insights: You’ll lose access to detailed insights about job listings and how you compare to other applicants. This can make it harder to stand out in the job market.

Deciding Whether to Cancel LinkedIn Premium

Deciding whether to cancel your premium subscription to LinkedIn Premium depends on your needs and your platform use. Here are some scenarios to consider:

1. Frequent job seekers: LinkedIn Premium Career can provide valuable insights and connections that might be worth the investment if you're actively looking for a job. The ability to message recruiters directly and see how you compare to other applicants can give you an edge.

2. Sales professionals: Sales Navigator Core's advanced search features and lead recommendations can be indispensable for salespeople. Maintaining a premium subscription might be beneficial if you frequently rely on LinkedIn to find and manage leads.

3. Business developers: If you’re using LinkedIn to grow your business, the insights into companies and extended network data offered by LinkedIn Premium Business can be crucial. These tools can help you identify potential partners and clients more effectively.

4. Recruiters: Recruiters can greatly benefit from Recruiter Lite's advanced search filters and direct messaging capabilities.

Access to LinkedIn’s vast talent pool and the ability to message candidates directly can streamline the recruitment process.

5. Occasional users: If you use LinkedIn only sporadically or primarily to maintain a professional presence, a free account might be sufficient.

You can still engage with content, connect with others, and apply for jobs without the additional features of LinkedIn Premium.

Making the Transition from Premium to Free Account

Suppose you’ve decided to cancel your manage subscription to LinkedIn Premium and revert to a free account. In that case, there are steps you can take to ensure a smooth transition and continue making the most of LinkedIn.

1. Backup important data: Before your premium subscription ends, export any important data or information you’ve gathered, such as leads, job insights, or profile views. This ensures you don’t lose valuable information after the cancellation.

2. Complete LinkedIn Learning courses: Finish any ongoing LinkedIn Learning courses before your subscription ends. This allows you to take full advantage of the educational resources available.

3. Inform your network: Let your key contacts know you’re transitioning to a free account. This can help maintain communication channels and ensure they know how to reach you.

4. Adjust your usage habits: Without premium features, you may need to change how you use LinkedIn. Focus on optimizing your profile, engaging with content, and using basic search filters to find opportunities.

5. Explore other tools: Look for alternative tools and platforms to supplement the features you’ll lose with LinkedIn Premium. For example, use third-party learning platforms for professional development and other networking groups to expand your connections.

Tips for Effective Networking on LinkedIn

Whether using a free or premium account, effective networking on LinkedIn can significantly enhance your professional opportunities.

Here are some tips to maximize your LinkedIn presence:

1. Personalize connection requests: When sending connection requests, personalize your message to explain why you want to connect. Mention any common interests or mutual connections to increase the chances of acceptance.

2. Engage with your network: Regularly engage with your network by liking, commenting on, and sharing posts. This keeps you visible and helps build relationships with your connections.

3. Post relevant content: Share content relevant to your industry or profession. This can include articles, insights, and updates about your work. Posting regularly can establish you as a thought leader in your field.

4. Join and participate in groups: LinkedIn groups provide opportunities to connect with professionals in your industry. Participate in discussions and share your expertise to build your reputation and expand your network.

5. Reach out with InMail: If you still have InMail credits before your subscription ends, use them to contact potential contacts or employers. Craft thoughtful and concise messages to increase your chances of getting a response.

6. Utilize endorsements and recommendations: Request endorsements for your skills and recommendations from colleagues or clients. These can add credibility to your profile and make you stand out to potential employers or business partners.

Maintaining Professional Development Without LinkedIn Premium

Losing access to LinkedIn Learning and other premium features doesn’t mean you must stop developing your professional skills. Here are some ways to continue your professional development without LinkedIn Premium:

1. Explore alternative learning platforms: Many online learning platforms offer courses similar to LinkedIn Learning. Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and Khan Academy provide various courses, often at lower costs or even for free.

2. Attend webinars and workshops: Many professional organizations and industry groups offer free or low-cost ones. These can be valuable opportunities to learn new skills and stay updated on industry trends.

3. Read industry publications: Subscribe to industry publications, blogs, and newsletters to stay informed about the latest developments in your field. This can help you stay knowledgeable and competitive in your profession.

4. Join professional associations: Many industries have professional associations that offer resources, networking opportunities, and professional development programs. Joining one that is relevant to your field can provide valuable support and opportunities.

4. Network with peers: Engaging with peers in your industry can provide opportunities for learning and growth. Attend industry events, join networking groups, and participate in discussions to exchange knowledge and insights.

Reassessing Your LinkedIn Strategy

After canceling your subscription to LinkedIn Premium, it’s a good idea to reassess your overall LinkedIn strategy to ensure you’re making the most of the platform. Here are some steps to help you optimize your LinkedIn presence:

1. Update your profile: Regularly update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your latest accomplishments, skills, and experiences. A well-maintained profile can attract more views and opportunities.
2. Set clear goals: Define what you want to achieve with your LinkedIn presence. Whether you're looking for a new job, growing your business, or expanding your network, having clear goals can help you focus your efforts.
3. Optimize your content: Share content that aligns with your goals and resonates with your target audience. This can include articles, insights, updates, and professional achievements. Regularly posting relevant content can increase your visibility and engagement.
4. Engage consistently: Consistent engagement with your network is key to building strong relationships. Make it a habit to interact with posts, comment on discussions, and reach out to new connections regularly.
5. Monitor your progress: Track your LinkedIn activity and progress towards your goals. This can help you identify what’s working and needs improvement, allowing you to adjust your strategy accordingly.

Final Thoughts on Cancelling LinkedIn Premium

Cancelling LinkedIn Premium depends on your individual needs and how you use the platform.

Whether you maintain your premium subscription or switch to a free account, optimizing your LinkedIn strategy and staying active on the platform can help you achieve your professional objectives.

If you are looking to build a lasting brand on Linkedin, you don't need premium.

All you need is to use Qura.ai to help you write content and reply to comments with your brand tone.

Regardless of your subscription level, making the most of it can open up new opportunities and support your professional growth.