There comes a time when you might need a break from the professional networking world. Whether you’re streamlining your digital presence, taking a career break, or simply want a pause from notifications, knowing how to step back is important. Deactivating your LinkedIn account is a straightforward process, but it’s different from just logging out, and it’s helpful to know what to expect before you proceed.
What Happens When You Choose to Deactivate
Before you click that button, it’s good to understand what deactivation means. Your profile will become invisible to other LinkedIn members. People will not be able to find you in searches or see your profile. However, LinkedIn does hold onto your data for a short period, just in case you change your mind and decide to reactivate your account. It’s also worth noting that some information, like messages you’ve sent, might remain visible in others’ inboxes.
A Simple Guide to Closing Your Account Temporarily
If you’re sure you want to proceed, the steps are simple. Start by clicking on your profile picture in the top right corner of your LinkedIn homepage and select Settings & Privacy. From there, look for the Account preferences section. You will find an option labeled Close account. Clicking this will guide you through a few screens where you’ll select your reason for leaving and re-enter your password. Once you confirm, your account will be deactivated.
Considerations Before You Say Goodbye
Taking a moment to think before deactivating can save you future hassle. If you have any important connections or information on your profile, you might want to download a copy of your data first. You can do this from the Data privacy section in your settings. Also, remember that if you have a Premium subscription, you will need to cancel that separately to avoid future charges, as closing your account does not automatically cancel your paid plan.
Stepping away from LinkedIn, even temporarily, can be a refreshing way to reassess your professional goals and digital footprint. By following these steps, you can take that break with confidence, knowing exactly how to manage your account.