In a bit to tackle automation and spam, LinkedIn has introduced a weekly connection limit of 100 requests per week.
This is a great step forward for the platform as it will hopefully reduce the amount of spam connection requests and messages received by users, cutting down the noise and creating a more engaging and valuable experience.
LinkedIn have always tried to limit the sending of mass connection requests, this is the first time that a formal number has been set and communicated. Previously you would only know once you hit the informal limit, or had your account temporarily suspended for a perceived breach of the terms of service.
This is not the first time that LinkedIn have introduced limits to functionality though. The 100 figure matches the number of company page follow invites you can send per month. Suggesting there is a coherent strategy to tackle some of the nuisance tactics people try to game the system.
Message users receive once they hit the 100 connection request limit
A cynic may suggest this is a ploy to increase the use of paid services such as Inmails via LinkedIn Sales Navigator and LinkedIn Advertising.
How you will be affected depends on who you are and how you use LinkedIn
Average Business Owner, Sales/Marketing Professional
For the average user though this is unlikely, 100 connection requests should be more than enough.
Those using the platform like a professional networking community to share content and build relationships will never have the time to send 100 requests and do the necessary follow-up and engagement to build a relationship so will never notice the limit is there.
LinkedIn Automation and Lead Generation Services
The real targets of the change are those using LinkedIn automation software or offering LinkedIn Lead Generation services that rely on sending connection requests and then spam out a sales message.
The weekly connection request limit will have a dramatic impact on the scale they are able to offer and potentially make the high volume-low quality services unfeasible.
As with all tech enforcement it is a cat and mouse battle between platform and those trying to game the system. The automation software companies are not taking it lying down and we have already seen some workarounds they are using.
One major provider has already put out an email with its proposed fix, using email scraping software to send invites via bulk email upload where the limits do not exist.
Great Information, Thanks for sharing.