I have a standard Linkedin account, and while this offers me some fantastic functionality, there are a few limitations, and one of these limits is not having unlimited search ability. It's not a major deal, as I can still use the Advanced search option, but with a few minor limitations.
Linkedin haven't published what those limits are, but they do say:
"If you reach the commercial use limit, your activity on LinkedIn indicates that you're likely using LinkedIn for commercial use, like hiring or prospecting. This limit is calculated based on your search activity since the first of the calendar month."
Related Post: 6 Tips to Increase your LinkedIn Connections
Huh? Commercial Use?
I don't use Linkedin for Commercial use, that much I know, but what I have been doing is trying to increase my Linkedin connections, by using the Advanced search option, and today I was doing just that. And that's when I received a notification
"Claire, you're approaching the commercial use limit on search".
Okay, I didn't even realise I had a search limit, but I suppose using a free account there are bound to be some limitations.
What happens when I reach my Search Limit?
Not to worry, you are given search limit's on a monthly basis, so at the beginning of each month my search limit is reset. Even if I use up all my monthly search limits, I can still carry out searches, but will be restricted to 1st Degree connections only, until my search limit is reset.
What LinkedIn say
"With this change, every LinkedIn member can search without restrictions until they hit the commercial use limit for search in any given month. If you're a power user of LinkedIn search, consider upgrading to a Linkedin account that meets your commercial needs, such as LinkedIn Premium Business Plus, Sales Navigator, or Recruiter, to get unlimited searches in your extended network. These accounts also provide features that help you find and contact the right people, including the extended list of Who’s Viewed Your Profile and How You Rank, InMail, advanced search filters, and more. Click here to learn about these plans."
To find out more about search options check out this link LinkedIn search options. If you want to have unlimited search functionality, then you'll need to upgrade to one of the premium account options, but to be honest, this is the first time I've ever received this notification, and it's not too much of a problem!
