LinkedIn recently introduced a new “No Thanks” button that allows users to politely decline connection requests. This addition aims to give users more control over their connections and who they interact with on the platform.
The “No Thanks” button shows up when you receive an invitation to connect from someone. Instead of just ignoring or deleting the request, you now have the option to click “No Thanks” to send a polite declination. This lets the sender know you don’t wish to connect without leaving them wondering if you ever saw their invitation.
Why Did LinkedIn Add the No Thanks Button?
LinkedIn added this feature in response to user feedback. Many members felt uncomfortable simply ignoring connection requests. Others wanted a way to clearly signal they didn’t want to connect instead of leaving the sender in limbo.
The “No Thanks” button provides a straightforward way to decline invitations with a definitive response. This gives users more control over their connections and prevents unwanted solicitations from accumulating in their notifications.
Benefits of the No Thanks Button
Here are some of the benefits of LinkedIn’s new “No Thanks” button:
- Lets you politely decline unwanted invitations
- Saves you from having to ignore or delete requests
- Sends a clear signal you don’t wish to connect
- Gives you more control over your network
- Reduces unwanted notifications and spam
- Prevents potential connections from lingering indefinitely
How to Use the No Thanks Button
Using the “No Thanks” button is simple. Just follow these steps when you receive a connection invitation:
- Open the notification for the connection request.
- At the bottom, click the “No Thanks” button instead of “Accept” or “Ignore.”
- This will politely decline the invitation and notify the sender.
That’s all there is to it! LinkedIn will send a message letting the person know you declined their request via the “No Thanks” feature.
Customizing the No Thanks Message
LinkedIn allows you to customize the message sent when you use the “No Thanks” button. To edit the default message:
- Go to your LinkedIn account settings.
- Select “Communications.”
- Under “Connecting,” click “No Thanks settings.”
- Edit the message to your liking.
- Click “Save” to update the template.
This allows you to add a more personal touch if desired. You can tweak the language to be warmer or keep it short and to the point based on your preferences.
Is the No Thanks Button Available on Mobile?
At launch, the “No Thanks” button was only available on LinkedIn’s desktop site. However, LinkedIn has confirmed it will be rolling out to its mobile apps for iOS and Android in the future.
For now, mobile users will need to either ignore requests or connect then disconnect later on if they wish to decline an invitation. This makes the desktop experience a bit smoother, but the option should arrive on mobile soon.
No Thanks Use Cases
There are a few common situations where the “No Thanks” button comes in handy:
- Strangers or distant acquaintances – Politely decline people you don’t know or barely know requesting to connect.
- Recruiters – Avoid adding recruiters from firms or roles you’re not interested in.
- Sales solicitors – Prevent salespeople trying to pitch you products or services.
- Wrong connections – Correct mistaken connection attempts meant for someone else.
Essentially, anytime you get a connection request but don’t wish to accept, the “No Thanks” button lets you clearly convey that message.
Limitations of No Thanks
The “No Thanks” feature has a couple limitations to be aware of:
- Only works for initial connection invitations – You can’t use it after already connecting.
- Senders could still try connecting again – Persistent solicitors may continue requesting to connect.
- Not yet available on mobile – Currently desktop-only until added to mobile apps.
- Doesn’t prevent all undesired contact – Users could still message, invite, or add you.
So while useful, the “No Thanks” button alone isn’t a cure-all for unwelcome interactions. You may need to utilize other tools like blocking, reporting, or privacy settings to manage things like harassment.
Best Practices for Using No Thanks
To get the most out of the “No Thanks” feature, keep these tips in mind:
- Use it sparingly – Don’t overdo it or you may appear rude.
- Customize the message – Add a warm, polite tone if needed.
- Explain if appropriate – If you have a relationship, a brief reason can help.
- Use consistently – Decline most requests you don’t want to keep things tidy.
- Supplement with other tools – Combine with blocking, privacy settings, etc. as needed.
Finding the right balance takes some practice. But a few polite yet firm “No Thanks” messages can go a long way in shaping your ideal connections list.
The Future of Unwanted Messages
The “No Thanks” button is a step in the right direction, but LinkedIn still has work to do. Other common complaints include:
- Difficulty removing connections
- No way to pre-emptively block someone
- Lack of granular notification controls
- No option to hide your profile
Expanding on the “No Thanks” concept to address these areas would give users much more power over their experience. Features like one-click disconnecting, blocking contacts, and untagging could help reduce unwanted messages and exposure.
For now, the “No Thanks” button improves the ability to manage connection requests. But expect continued evolution as LinkedIn tries to find the right balance between openness and user control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the sender receive any notification when I click “No Thanks”?
Yes, the sender will receive a message notifying them that you declined their connection request using the “No Thanks” feature.
Can I undo a “No Thanks” and connect with someone later?
If you change your mind, you’ll need to send a new connection invitation. The original sender can’t re-invite you after a “No Thanks” declination.
Is there a limit to how many times I can use the “No Thanks” button per day/week/month?
No, there are currently no limits on how frequently you can use the “No Thanks” feature.
Will clicking “No Thanks” block or report someone?
No, the “No Thanks” button will not block or report someone. It simply declines the connection request politely.
Can I undo a sent “No Thanks” message?
Unfortunately no, there is no way to undo a “No Thanks” message once you’ve sent it. The declination can’t be revoked.
Does “No Thanks” prevent someone from viewing my profile or sending me InMails?
“No Thanks” only applies to connection requests. It does not block someone from searching your profile or sending you messages. You’ll need to utilize other tools for those options.
The Bottom Line
LinkedIn’s “No Thanks” button provides a polite way to manage unwanted connection invitations. While not a cure-all, it gives users more control over their networks. With customized messages and thoughtful use, it can help shape a quality contacts list free of spam and solicitation.
Hopefully this gives you a better understanding of how to use the new “No Thanks” feature on LinkedIn to your advantage!