June 5, 2024

LinkedIn premium: Is it worth it?

John Kim

Co-founder @ Paraform

In this blog

The allure of PremiumWeighing the costsIs it worthwhile?Beyond the price tagThe full pros and consThe Verdict

In the relentless pursuit of top talent, recruiters constantly seek tools to gain an edge. LinkedIn Premium is the most powerful option, promising a treasure trove of features specifically designed for recruiters.

But with several subscription tiers and a not-insignificant price tag, the question lingers: Is LinkedIn Premium worth it for recruiters?

Let’s break it down.

The allure of Premium

LinkedIn Premium for recruiters comes in two flavors: Recruiter Lite and the full-fledged LinkedIn Recruiter. Both offer advantages that can significantly impact your workflow:

• Advanced Search & Filters: Dive deeper than basic searches with a vast array of filters to target candidates with the precise skills, experience, and background you seek.
• InMails: Break free from connection limitations and directly reach out to the talent you need, even if they're not in your network.
• Candidate Insights: Gain valuable intel beyond resumes, including skills endorsements, recent activity, and mutual connections.
• Project Management: Organize your recruitment efforts with project creation tools. Track candidates, assign tasks, and collaborate with hiring teams seamlessly.
• Saved Searches & Alerts: Never miss a qualified candidate. Set up saved searches with specific criteria and receive notifications when new profiles matching your needs appear.

Weighing the costs

The benefits sound enticing, but there's a price to consider. Recruiter Lite, the more affordable option, comes with limitations on InMails, project creation, and lacks some advanced features.

On the other hand, the full-fledged LinkedIn Recruiter offers a comprehensive toolkit but carries a premium price tag.

Is it worthwhile?

The answer depends on your specific needs and resources. Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

• For Small Teams & Budget-Conscious Recruiters: Recruiter Lite can be a valuable asset. It provides essential tools for targeted searches, InMail outreach, and basic project management.
• For High-Volume Hiring & Established Teams: If you manage a large talent pool, the full LinkedIn Recruiter might be worth the investment. The additional features like advanced pipeline management and bulk outreach capabilities can significantly streamline your workflow.

Beyond the price tag

While cost is crucial, remember that successful recruitment goes beyond just tools. Here are some additional considerations:

• Your Existing Network: A strong existing network on LinkedIn can be a powerful tool for sourcing candidates, even without Premium.
• Alternative Sourcing Strategies: Explore job boards, professional organizations, and targeted online communities to supplement your LinkedIn efforts.
• Content Marketing & Employer Branding: Building a strong employer brand attracts top talent organically. Showcase your company culture and values through engaging content on LinkedIn.

The full pros and cons

Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons you should consider before pulling the trigger.

Pros

1. Advanced Search & Filters: Dig deeper than basic searches with a vast array of filters. Target candidates with the precise skills, experience, and background you seek (valuable for recruiters) or find the perfect job openings that match your qualifications (valuable for job seekers).
2. InMails: Break free from connection limitations and directly reach out to the talent you need (recruiters) or connect with hiring managers and decision-makers you wouldn't otherwise have access to (job seekers).
3. Candidate Insights: Gain valuable intel beyond resumes. See skills endorsements, recent activity, and mutual connections (valuable for recruiters) or learn more about potential employers and their employees (valuable for job seekers).
4. Premium Learning: Access a library of LinkedIn Learning courses (https://www.linkedin.com/learning) to expand your skillset and stay ahead of the curve (valuable for both job seekers and professionals looking to upskill).
5. Visibility Boost: Depending on the plan, your profile may be displayed more prominently in search results, potentially increasing your discoverability by recruiters (valuable for job seekers).

Cons

1. Cost: LinkedIn Premium subscriptions come in tiers, with varying price points. Consider if the features offered justify the cost, especially if you're a casual user.
2. Limited InMails (Free Plans): Free plans within Premium tiers offer a limited number of InMails per month. This can restrict outreach for recruiters and may not be enough for frequent job seekers.
3. Competition: While Premium features can enhance your profile, so do others'. The premium benefits alone might not guarantee you stand out significantly. It's still crucial to build a strong network and craft compelling profiles.
4. Limited Value for Passive Job Seekers: If you're not actively searching for a new position, the core features of a free LinkedIn account might suffice.
5. Alternatives Exist: Several free tools can replicate some Premium functionalities, such as Boolean search strings and social media search engines.

The Verdict

LinkedIn Premium can be a valuable tool for both job seekers and recruiters who actively use the platform and want to maximize their visibility and outreach.

However, carefully consider your needs and budget. Utilize free alternatives where possible, and remember, a strong LinkedIn presence goes beyond just a Premium subscription.