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Cleaning Up Your LinkedIn: Step-by-Step Guide on How to Delete a LinkedIn Contact

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Let’s get straight to the point!

Managing your LinkedIn connections is not merely a housekeeping task but a strategic move toward a more effective professional network, right? 

Now, imagine your LinkedIn connections as the sources of a thriving business corporation, and you’ll understand why connections are so important.

So, as you scale the ladder of success, your network grows organically, capturing colleagues, industry partners, and mentors along the way. Also, a fake account can pop up in your LinkedIn contacts. The question is: how to delete a LinkedIn connection that’s no longer needed?

However, maintaining a disorganized network with irrelevant connections can be counterproductive – that’s what we will discuss in this article!

Let’s ensure your LinkedIn profile page tells your story effectively with our tips and tricks!

Reasons for Deleting LinkedIn Contacts

A LinkedIn social media home page

As we delve into the reasons behind deleting LinkedIn contacts, it becomes clear that the artistry lies not just in connecting but also in discerning when a connection no longer serves its purpose.

Let’s take a look at some common scenarios for connection removal!

Professional Evolution 

Let’s start with something called professional evolution. Evolution is constant in the dynamic world of careers – we can all agree on that

You may find yourself outgrowing certain professional associations, be it colleagues from your first job at some cafe or connections that no longer align with your current career trajectory. 

So, deleting these connections is not a dismissal but a calculated move to ensure your network reflects your present and future, not just your past.

Unwanted Solicitations

While a hub for professional connections, LinkedIn is not immune to unsolicited sales pitches and scammers. Every social media platform today is trying to take serious action against scammers or people with a fake account.

So, it might be time to choose that remove button if your connections inundate you with constant promotional content or if your inbox resembles a billboard for unrelated ventures. 

A streamlined network fosters more meaningful interactions and keeps your focus on what truly matters in your professional journey.

Fake Accounts and Privacy Concerns

A fact: As the digital realm evolves, so do the challenges it presents. 

Consider it a red flag if you encounter a suspicious or fake account in your connections. Your LinkedIn network reflects your professional identity; maintaining its integrity is critical.

Don’t hesitate to delete connections associated with dubious profiles is a proactive step toward safeguarding your professional reputation, and you should pay more attention to it!

But we’re not going to leave you with dry hands.

Here are some things to consider when it comes to removing a LinkedIn connection:

  • The professional relationship has served its purpose, and there’s no mutual benefit.
  • The connection consistently engages in unprofessional behavior or makes inappropriate posts.
  • The contact’s profile becomes inactive, suggesting a lack of professional relevance.

Locating and Accessing Your LinkedIn Connections

Pawns connected

Now, here’s a step-by-step guide that will show you how to access and navigate your list of connections, ensuring that your LinkedIn network is a polished reflection of your evolving professional identity:

Step 1: Navigating to Your LinkedIn Homepage

First, you must type your e-mail and password to log into your LinkedIn account. Then, begin your journey on the LinkedIn homepage

As you tap into the platform, take note of the profile picture icon prominently positioned on the left rail.

Step 2: Go to Your Profile Page

Select "View profile"

As on many apps – everything you need can be found on your profile page. First, click on your profile picture in the top right corner (on the computer version) or left rail corner (on the mobile app.) 

You’ll find a drop-down menu with some features if you click on the profile picture.

A click on the profile pic icon and then viewing the profile will unveil the user’s profile – a world of professional connections, signaling the start of your exploration. 

Here, you’ll find the Connections and Followers – a dynamic storage of your network. 

Step 3: Navigate the Connections Page

Contacts section

Once you go to the connections, the next move involves using a drop-down menu – search with filters. Look for the ‘sort by’ or ‘search with filters’ icon – a powerful feature in the intricate LinkedIn interface. 

A click on this icon unfurls a menu of options, and within it lies the key to managing your connections.

Step 4: Entering the Connections Section

pop up window for filtering contacts

This is the place where existing contacts and potential pruning opportunities await.

Here, you gain access to the full view of your professional relationships, allowing you to discern connections that need refinement.

Step 5: Going through the Contacts List

Contacts page

As you scroll through your connections page, use the search function strategically to locate the contact you wish to remove.

This function acts as your detective tool, enabling you to swiftly pinpoint connections amidst the professional sea.

Step 6: Learning how to Remove a LinkedIn Connection

Upon finding the connection in question, initiate the removal process, a.k .a. remove a LinkedIn connection – that’ll wait for you in our next section!

How to Delete a LinkedIn Contact: Step-by-Step Guide

Now, finally, to the part where we will teach you how to remove connections you don’t want anymore in just a few seconds!

Step 1: Navigating to Your LinkedIn Homepage

First, we must assume you’ve successfully reached the LinkedIn homepage. Now, let’s seamlessly transition to the next phase of our remove a LinkedIn connection guide – accessing.

Step 2: Accessing the Connections Page

With the network icon as your guide, click the Connections page. We’ve already taught you how to do this one, too.

Step 3: Identifying the LinkedIn Connection You Want To Remove

feature to remove connections easy

Before we delve into the mechanics of removal, use the search function to locate the connection you wish to bid farewell. 

This strategic move streamlines the process, ensuring you pinpoint the intended contact amidst the sea of professional relationships. Well, this tool is only helpful if you already have an idea about which individuals you want to delete.

Step 4: The Delicate Dance of Deletion

Once your target is identified, it’s time to remove the connection you don’t want to see anymore. 

Clicking on the connection’s profile opens a menu of options where you’ll find the ‘Remove connection’ option, initiating the process.

Step 5: Confirming the Disconnect

A subtle yet crucial pop-up window emerges, prompting you to confirm the removal. 

Click the ‘Confirm’ button confidently – trust us, this is the best for your LinkedIn account and personal goals. The connection is now gracefully removed from your LinkedIn network.

Managing Connection Requests

Person on laptop trying to remove connections

Now, here are some tips for Managing Connection Requests!

Upon receiving a connection request, your first interaction is often through the introduction card, right? So, first, take a moment to review the requester’s profile.

Also, consider their industry, mutual connections, and shared interests – don’t be superficial during the investigation. Why, you may wonder? Well, this preliminary step ensures you make informed decisions about expanding your LinkedIn network.

What is the most important thing we’ve learned today? Well, the decision to accept or decline a connection request carries weight! 

You should aim for a balanced network that aligns with your professional goals.

Accepting requests from those within your industry, potential collaborators, or individuals with shared professional interests is the best for your LinkedIn network.

On the other hand, declining a request is a strategic move to maintain the quality of your LinkedIn connections.

Are you looking to streamline your LinkedIn networking experience and leverage its full potential? Well, enter AimFox – the silent ally in your quest for strategic connections.

What you should know about this tool?

Well, AimFox simplifies the process of finding qualified leads. You can initiate conversations with just a few clicks, ensuring your message reaches your target audience effortlessly.

Now, you can scale your business without hiring more people. AimFox provides a consistent flow of high-quality leads, allowing you to focus on what really matters: presenting your offer and building your business.

Finding new customers for freelancers may be difficult, right?

That is why our tool places you in front of the proper people, allowing you to expand your professional network without committing too much time. AimFox also automates the process of identifying prospects, following up with them, and turning them into paying clients.

Blocking vs. Removing Connections

People manage to connect with eachothers

Not sure if you want to delete or block your LinkedIn connection?

This section is your best friend.

So, the decision to either block or remove a connection on LinkedIn is akin to a strategic chess move. 

Here are more information on the main differences between these two:

The power of Remove: 

When you choose to remove a connection, you’re opting for a surgical approach. This action severs the digital tie, freeing up space in your network. 

The person, however, remains unaware of this removal unless they actively seek out your profile (stalkers or just your big fans?). 

Basically, it’s a silent, subtle adjustment to your professional landscape.

The Power of Blocking: 

Blocking, on the other hand, is a more definitive step. 

It not only removes the connection but also restricts the blocked individual from viewing your profile or engaging with you on LinkedIn. So, be aware that this action sends a clear message of disconnection, but it’s a move that’s not easily reversible.

How to choose between these two? 

Well, if a connection no longer aligns with your current professional trajectory or if the relationship has served its purpose, removal is the apt choice. 

Also, when pruning your LinkedIn network for relevance and quality, opt for removal.

Yet, who deserves to be blocked? 

Well, if a connection engages in unprofessional behavior or incessant sales pitches, or if you wish to create a clear boundary, blocking is the decisive step. Also, blocking is a robust solution in cases of fake accounts or privacy concerns. 

Rebuilding Your Network After Deletion

Search engine home page

As we explore the aftermath of this cleansing process, let’s delve into tips and strategies for rebuilding your LinkedIn connections with purpose!

Our first tip for you is to use the search function wisely to discover individuals within your industry with similar interests or occupying roles you aspire to. 

Second, try to avoid generic connection requests that provide little context. Instead, invest time in crafting personalized messages that articulate why you want to connect.

Don’t forget to mention shared interests, mutual connections, or how your expertise can complement theirs. 

Why?

Well, personalization transforms a mere connection into the foundation of a meaningful professional relationship.

LinkedIn's settings

Also, join and engage in relevant groups!

LinkedIn groups serve as hubs of industry-specific discussions and networking opportunities. 

First, try to identify and join groups aligned with your professional interests, and not just some random groups. 

Engage in discussions, share insights, and connect with group members whose contributions resonate with you. 

Last but not least important – prioritize quality over quantity, ensuring that each connection aligns with your professional objectives. Accept only requests from individuals whose profiles reflect a genuine interest in mutual growth and collaboration.

Final Thoughts

As mentioned, the true power of LinkedIn lies not just in connections but in relationships that fuel professional advancement.

So, cleaning up your LinkedIn is not merely about removing connections; it’s a strategic move toward cultivating a purposeful professional network.

And, for those seeking an extra edge in their LinkedIn efforts, consider the AimFox – the real deal. This innovative tool automates your prospecting efforts, allowing you to focus on what truly matters – building connections and fostering growth.

Once again, deleting a contact is not an end – it’s a strategic pivot toward a more purposeful network!

Author

  • Emily Johnsen

    Emily is a marketing wiz with a knack for crafting compelling brand stories. Currently works as a Digital Marketing Specialist at Aimfox.

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