How to Hibernate Your LinkedIn Account

Introduction

LinkedIn is a piece of hot garbage and full of vanity, but we need it from time to time when looking for a job.

Luckily, LinkedIn offers a “Hibernation” feature that allows you to step away while keeping your profile, connections, and content intact for a future return.

This guide covers what happens when you hibernate your account and how to execute the process.

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What Happens During Hibernation?

When you choose to hibernate your account, LinkedIn effectively hides your presence from the platform.

• Profile Visibility: Your profile becomes invisible to everyone, including your connections.
• Search: You will no longer appear in search results, including professional tools like LinkedIn Recruiter.
• Engagement: Your previous posts, comments, and recommendations will remain, but your name will be replaced by “A LinkedIn member.” If you had a profile photo, it will be replaced by a generic icon.
• Messages: Existing message threads will persist, but you will be identified as “A LinkedIn member.”

Important Note: You must wait at least 24 hours after hibernating your account before you can attempt to reactivate it.

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How to Hibernate Your Account

Before proceeding, ensure you have addressed any outstanding administrative tasks (such as paying balances or reassigning group admin roles).

1. Navigate to Settings: Click your profile photo at the top of your LinkedIn homepage and select Settings & Privacy.
2. Access Management: Select Account management from the menu.
3. Hibernate: Click on Hibernate account.
4. Reasoning: Select the option that best describes why you are choosing to hibernate.
5. Finalize: Enter your password and click the Hibernate account button.

Note: If you have a Premium subscription, it will be canceled immediately. If you pay through Apple, ensure you also cancel the subscription within your Apple settings to prevent future billing.

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Reactivating Your Account

Pro tip: Only reactivate your account once you are job searching.

When you are ready to return to the platform:

1. Log In: Wait at least 24 hours after the initial hibernation.
2. Credentials: Sign in using your standard email and password.
3. Restoration: Your profile will be restored.

Expect a slight delay: Upon reactivation, you might notice temporary discrepancies in your connection or follower counts. This is normal and typically resolves itself within 48 hours.

Source: LinkedIn