Determining the worth of LinkedIn Premium largely hinges on your unique career objectives and the extent to which you intend to utilize its functionalities. It’s not a one-size-fits-all decision.
There are several key scenarios to consider. Firstly, for job seekers, the “Premium Career” package can be highly beneficial. Notable perks include the ability to view everyone who has checked your profile in the past 90 days, being spotlighted as a “Featured Applicant” in job applications, accessing salary insights, and receiving InMail credits to directly message recruiters or hiring managers not in your network. If you’re actively seeking new opportunities, these features can provide a competitive edge.
Secondly, sales professionals often find the “Sales Navigator” plan to be a vital and specialized tool. It offers advanced search filters for pinpointing leads and accounts, provides lead suggestions, and aids in tracking key individuals and companies. For those focused on prospecting and lead generation, it’s frequently viewed as an indispensable professional resource.
Thirdly, for general business networking and research purposes, the “Premium Business” plan offers enhanced company information, extra InMail credits, and unlimited people browsing. Its value significantly relies on your reliance on LinkedIn for market insights and direct connections.
For individuals who don’t actively job hunt, sell, or recruit, justifying a paid subscription can be challenging. The free LinkedIn version remains robust for maintaining a professional presence, connecting with peers, and staying updated on industry trends.
The most sought-after features that draw users in are typically the complete “Who’s Viewed Your Profile” list, InMail credits for expanding your outreach, and for some, access to the vast array of courses on LinkedIn Learning.
The best approach to ascertain its suitability for you is to take advantage of LinkedIn’s common one-month free trial. This enables you to test the specifics of the plan you’re interested in and gauge if you derive enough value from it to warrant the ongoing expense.
In conclusion, LinkedIn Premium serves as a potent tool for those with specific, active aims like job hunting, sales activities, or recruitment. For many other professionals, the free service often suffices. Utilize the trial period to make an informed choice that suits your needs.
Best regards,
Sean