How to Get LinkedIn Premium for Free – A Step-by-Step Guide

LinkedIn Premium offers a range of features that can supercharge your professional networking and job search efforts. From sending direct messages to recruiters to accessing in-depth insights about companies, the premium version provides tools that can set you apart in the competitive job market. But what if you could access these features without paying? This guide will show you how to get LinkedIn Premium for free, legally and ethically.

Understanding LinkedIn Premium

Before diving into the methods of accessing LinkedIn Premium for free, it’s important to understand what it is and how it can benefit you.

What Is LinkedIn Premium?

LinkedIn Premium is a subscription service that enhances your LinkedIn experience by providing advanced features not available in the free version. These features are designed to help professionals like you to:

• Expand Your Network: Connect with influential people in your industry.
• Advance Your Career: Access job insights and see how you compare to other applicants.
• Enhance Your Skills: Learn new skills with LinkedIn Learning courses.
• Increase Visibility: Be more visible to recruiters and hiring managers.

Benefits of LinkedIn Premium

Some of the key benefits include:

• InMail Messages: Send direct messages to any LinkedIn user, even if you’re not connected.
• Who Viewed Your Profile: See the full list of people who have viewed your profile in the last 90 days.
• LinkedIn Learning: Access to thousands of expert-led courses to develop new skills.
• Job Insights: Get detailed insights into job postings and see how you stack up against other applicants.
• Advanced Search Filters: Find the right people and opportunities faster with enhanced search features.

Understanding these benefits can help you decide if pursuing LinkedIn Premium is worthwhile for your professional goals.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting LinkedIn Premium for Free

Now, let’s explore the legitimate ways to access LinkedIn Premium without spending a dime.

Step 1: Sign Up for the Free Trial

LinkedIn offers a one-month free trial of its Premium service to new users. This is the most straightforward way to experience all the premium features without any cost.

How to Sign Up for the Free Trial

1. Log In to Your LinkedIn Account: Go to LinkedIn and log in. If you don’t have an account yet, you can easily create one.
2. Navigate to the Premium Page: On your LinkedIn homepage, look for the “Try Premium Free” option. It’s usually located on the top navigation bar or under your profile picture.
3. Choose Your Premium Plan: Select the Premium plan that best fits your needs. Options typically include:
   • Premium Career: For job seekers.
   • Premium Business: For business professionals.
   • Sales Navigator: For sales professionals.
   • Recruiter Lite: For recruiters.
4. Provide Payment Information: Even though it’s a free trial, LinkedIn requires a payment method. You won’t be charged if you cancel before the trial period ends.
5. Confirm and Enjoy: Review the terms and confirm your subscription. You now have access to all the premium features for one month.

Tips for the Free Trial

• Set a Reminder: Mark your calendar to cancel the subscription before the trial ends if you don’t wish to continue.
• Explore All Features: Make the most of the trial by utilizing all the premium tools.
• Monitor Your Usage: Keep track of which features you find most beneficial.

Step 2: Utilize Educational Discounts if You’re a Student

If you’re a student, you might qualify for special discounts or even free access to LinkedIn Premium.

How to Access Student Offers

1. Verify Your Student Status: LinkedIn may offer educational discounts to users with a valid student email address ending with .edu or similar.
2. Check for Campus Programs: Some universities partner with LinkedIn to provide premium access to their students.
3. Sign Up Through Your Institution: Follow the instructions provided by your school to access the premium features.

Benefits for Students

• Enhance Your Profile: Add certifications and courses to your LinkedIn profile.
• Network with Professionals: Connect with industry leaders and alumni.
• Job Opportunities: Access exclusive job postings and insights.

For more on improving your profile, see our guide on how to improve your LinkedIn profile.

Step 3: Leverage Promotional Offers

LinkedIn occasionally provides promotional offers to users. These might come through email invitations or as part of special events.

How to Find Promotional Offers

1. Check Your Email Regularly: LinkedIn may send you promotional offers, so make sure to check your inbox and spam folder.
2. Engage on LinkedIn: Being active on the platform may increase your chances of receiving special offers.
3. Follow LinkedIn on Social Media: Stay updated on promotions by following LinkedIn’s official accounts.

Step 4: Access Through Organizational Partnerships

Some companies and professional organizations offer LinkedIn Premium access as part of their membership benefits.

How to Access Through an Organization

1. Inquire with Your Employer: Ask your HR department if your company provides LinkedIn Premium accounts to employees.
2. Join Professional Associations: Certain industry groups offer premium access to members.
3. Follow Enrollment Procedures: If provided, follow the organization’s instructions to set up your account.

Step 5: Use LinkedIn Learning Licenses from Libraries

Many public libraries offer access to LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com), which comes with premium features.

How to Access Through a Library

1. Visit Your Local Library’s Website: Check if they offer LinkedIn Learning licenses.
2. Sign Up with Your Library Card: You’ll need a valid library card to register.
3. Access Premium Content: Use your library credentials to log in to LinkedIn Learning.

Step 6: Participate in LinkedIn Events and Webinars

Sometimes, LinkedIn hosts events or webinars that offer attendees free access to premium features.

How to Participate

1. Follow LinkedIn Event Pages: Stay informed about upcoming events.
2. Register for Events: Sign up early, as spots may be limited.
3. Engage During the Event: Participate actively, as some offers are given to engaged attendees.

Maximizing Your LinkedIn Premium Trial

Once you have access to LinkedIn Premium, it’s crucial to make the most of the premium features.

Optimize Your Profile

An optimized profile increases your visibility to recruiters and potential connections.

• Update Your Headline: Make it clear and concise, highlighting your role and expertise.
• Professional Photo: Use a high-quality, professional-looking photo.
• Detailed Summary: Write a compelling summary that showcases your skills and goals.

Learn more about crafting the perfect profile in our article on how to improve your LinkedIn profile.

Leverage InMail Messages

Use InMail to reach out directly to recruiters, hiring managers, or potential clients.

• Personalize Your Messages: Tailor each message to the recipient to increase engagement.
• Be Professional and Concise: Keep your messages clear and to the point.

For message ideas, refer to our LinkedIn connection message template.

Access LinkedIn Learning Courses

Enhance your skills by taking advantage of LinkedIn Learning.

• Choose Relevant Courses: Focus on courses that align with your career goals.
• Complete Certifications: Showcase your commitment to professional development.
• Add to Your Profile: Display completed courses on your LinkedIn profile.

Utilize Advanced Search Filters

Find the right people and opportunities faster.

• Search by Industry, Location, and More: Narrow down your search to connect with relevant professionals.
• Save Searches: Keep track of important searches for easy access.

Analyze Who Viewed Your Profile

Understanding who is viewing your profile can provide valuable insights.

• Identify Potential Opportunities: Reach out to viewers who may be interested in your profile.
• Adjust Your Profile Accordingly: If certain keywords are attracting attention, emphasize them.

Access Premium Insights on Job Postings

Gain a competitive edge in your job search.

• See How You Compare: Understand how your skills measure up against other applicants.
• Salary Insights: Get an idea of the expected salary range for positions.
• Company Insights: Learn more about the company’s culture and growth.

Network Strategically

Expand your professional network effectively.

• Connect with Influencers: Build relationships with leaders in your industry.
• Join LinkedIn Groups: Participate in discussions to increase your visibility.
• Engage with Content: Comment on and share posts to build rapport.

For tips on networking, read our guide on how to get more LinkedIn followers.

Considering After the Trial Ends

As your free trial or promotional period comes to an end, you’ll need to decide whether to continue with a paid subscription.

Evaluate the Value

• Assess Feature Usage: Determine which premium features you used the most.
• Consider Your Professional Goals: Decide if these features are essential for achieving your objectives.
• Budget Constraints: Ensure that the cost fits within your budget.

Cancelling the Subscription

If you choose not to continue, make sure to cancel to avoid being charged.

How to Cancel

1. Go to Your Settings: Click on your profile picture and select “Premium Subscription Settings.”
2. Select “Manage Premium Account”: Find the option to cancel your subscription.
3. Confirm Cancellation: Follow the prompts to complete the process.

For more detailed steps, check out our article on how to hibernate your LinkedIn account.

Alternatives to LinkedIn Premium

Even without premium access, LinkedIn offers numerous features to help you advance your career.

Optimize Your Profile

A well-crafted profile can attract opportunities.

• Update Your Experience: Make sure your work history is current.
• Add Skills and Endorsements: Highlight your strengths.
• Request Recommendations: Ask colleagues to endorse your work.

Learn how to add experience with our guide on how to add experience on LinkedIn.

Engage with Your Network

Stay active to keep your profile visible.

• Post Regularly: Share industry news or professional insights.
• Comment on Posts: Engage with content from your connections.
• Join Groups: Participate in discussions relevant to your industry.

Utilize Basic LinkedIn Features

Take advantage of the free tools available.

• Apply for Jobs: Use the job search feature to find opportunities.
• Research Companies: Learn about potential employers.
• Follow Thought Leaders: Stay informed by following top LinkedIn influencers.

Expand Your Network

Build relationships to open doors.

• Connect with Alumni: Reach out to former classmates.
• Attend Virtual Events: Join webinars and online networking events.
• Personalize Connection Requests: Increase acceptance rates by customizing invitations.

Learn more with our article on how to increase connections on LinkedIn.

External Resources

In addition to LinkedIn’s features, utilize external resources to enhance your professional development.

Online Learning Platforms

• Coursera: Offers courses from universities and institutions.
• edX: Provides access to high-quality education from around the world.

Professional Development Blogs

• Harvard Business Review: Insights on leadership and management.
• Forbes Careers: Articles on job search strategies and career advice.

Networking Groups

• Meetup: Join local professional groups.
• Professional Associations: Engage with industry-specific organizations.

Conclusion

Accessing LinkedIn Premium for free is possible through various legitimate methods like free trials, educational discounts, and promotional offers. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can take advantage of premium features to boost your professional profile, expand your network, and enhance your career prospects.

Remember, even without a premium subscription, LinkedIn offers a wealth of resources to help you succeed. By staying active, optimizing your profile, and engaging with your network, you can achieve your professional goals.

Start implementing these strategies today, and make the most of what LinkedIn has to offer.