How to Block Someone on LinkedIn: Your Definitive Guide

Want to curate a professional LinkedIn experience free from unwanted interactions? Blocking someone is a powerful tool, and thankfully, LinkedIn makes it straightforward. Here’s how you do it: navigate to the profile of the person you wish to block, click the “More” button (usually represented by three dots), and then select “Report/Block.” From there, choose “Block” and confirm your decision.

Blocking on LinkedIn: A Deep Dive

LinkedIn, the professional networking behemoth, is crucial for career advancement, industry insights, and making valuable connections. However, like any social platform, it can sometimes attract unwanted attention. Blocking someone on LinkedIn is a definitive way to sever ties and prevent them from interacting with you on the platform. Let’s break down the process and explore the intricacies.

Step-by-Step Guide to Blocking

The process is remarkably simple, accessible via both the web and mobile apps.

• Access the Profile: Begin by locating the profile of the individual you wish to block. You can find them through search, mutual connections, or previous interactions.
• Locate the “More” Button: Once on their profile, look for the “More” button. This is usually represented by three horizontal dots (…) located near the “Connect” or “Message” button.
• Select “Report/Block”: Clicking the “More” button reveals a dropdown menu. Choose the “Report/Block” option. This option covers a range of actions, including reporting inappropriate behavior and, of course, blocking.
• Choose “Block”: A new window appears asking you to choose from options. Select “Block [Person’s Name].”
• Confirmation: LinkedIn will display a confirmation message outlining the consequences of blocking. Read this carefully and click “Block” to finalize the action. You’ll be asked to confirm one last time to ensure you’re absolutely sure.

What Happens When You Block Someone?

Blocking is a decisive action with several immediate consequences:

• No Further Connection: You and the blocked individual are immediately disconnected. They will no longer appear in your network, and you will disappear from theirs.
• Invisibility: The blocked person can no longer view your profile, posts, articles, or any other content you share on LinkedIn.
• No Messaging: They cannot send you messages through LinkedIn’s messaging system. Past conversations remain visible but cannot be continued.
• No Endorsements or Recommendations: They cannot endorse your skills or provide recommendations. Any existing endorsements or recommendations they’ve given you will be removed.
• Group Interactions: While blocked, they won’t be able to see your activity within LinkedIn groups. If you are both in the same group, your interactions will be invisible to each other.

Important Considerations Before Blocking

While blocking is a powerful tool, consider these points before taking action:

• Irreversibility (Almost): Unblocking someone is possible, but it requires waiting 48 hours before you can reconnect. This waiting period is designed to prevent abuse of the blocking and unblocking feature.
• Alternative Solutions: Before resorting to blocking, consider other options like muting the person (stopping notifications) or simply ignoring their messages.
• Professional Implications: Blocking can sometimes have professional repercussions, especially if you are in the same industry or have mutual connections. Consider if blocking might negatively impact your reputation or create awkward situations.

LinkedIn Blocking: FAQs

Let’s tackle some frequently asked questions to provide further clarity and insights into blocking on LinkedIn.

1. Can someone tell if I blocked them on LinkedIn?

No, LinkedIn does not directly notify a user that they have been blocked. However, they may infer it. They will notice that they can no longer view your profile or connect with you, which might lead them to suspect they have been blocked.

2. How long does a block last on LinkedIn?

A block on LinkedIn remains in effect indefinitely unless you choose to unblock the person.

3. Can I unblock someone I’ve blocked on LinkedIn?

Yes, you can unblock someone. However, after unblocking, you must wait 48 hours before you can send them a connection request again. This is a security measure implemented by LinkedIn.

4. Where can I find a list of people I’ve blocked on LinkedIn?

You can find a list of blocked members in your LinkedIn settings. Navigate to “Privacy” then “Blocking.” You’ll see a list of all the profiles you’ve blocked.

5. Does blocking someone on LinkedIn prevent them from seeing my profile if they’re not logged in?

Yes, blocking prevents them from seeing your profile regardless of whether they are logged in or not. They simply will not be able to access your LinkedIn profile.

6. If I block someone, will they still see my shared connections?

Yes, they can still see mutual connections. Blocking only affects direct interactions between you and the blocked individual. They can still view shared connections, but they cannot see any interaction or content you post on those connections’ profiles.

7. Can I block someone from seeing my posts but still remain connected to them?

Unfortunately, no. LinkedIn does not offer a feature to selectively hide posts from specific connections while remaining connected. Your only options are to remove them as a connection (and possibly block them if necessary) or to adjust your post visibility settings to limit who can see your updates.

8. What’s the difference between muting and blocking someone on LinkedIn?

Muting someone simply silences their updates in your feed. You remain connected, but you won’t receive notifications from them or see their posts in your newsfeed. Blocking, on the other hand, severs all ties, preventing them from viewing your profile, messaging you, or connecting with you in any way.

9. Can I block someone who isn’t in my network?

Yes, you can block anyone on LinkedIn, even if they aren’t a connection. You simply need to find their profile and follow the blocking steps outlined earlier.

10. Does blocking someone on LinkedIn affect their ability to see my company page?

No, blocking someone on LinkedIn does not affect their ability to view your company page. Your company page remains publicly accessible.

11. If I block someone and then endorse their skill before the block takes effect, will the endorsement be removed?

Yes, all endorsements and recommendations are removed upon blocking. So, if you endorse them and then block them before the platform fully registers the endorsement, it will not appear.

12. Can someone circumvent a block on LinkedIn by creating a new profile?

While someone could theoretically create a new profile, LinkedIn actively works to prevent the creation of fake or duplicate profiles. Furthermore, if you suspect someone is using a new profile to circumvent a block, you can report the new profile to LinkedIn for violating their terms of service.

Conclusion: Taking Control of Your LinkedIn Experience

Blocking is a valuable feature that empowers you to maintain a positive and productive professional presence on LinkedIn. Understanding how it works, its implications, and the alternatives available allows you to make informed decisions about managing your network and protecting your online experience. Don’t hesitate to use this tool when necessary to curate a LinkedIn experience that serves your career goals and protects your professional well-being.