This guide explains why the "Profile out of network" message appears and provides tips for addressing this issue, including strategies to expand your LinkedIn network for broader access to profiles.
What does "Profile out of network" mean?
When you see the "Profile out of network" message on LinkedIn, or if your Phantom has returned this message, it indicates that you are trying to access a profile that is outside your current LinkedIn network.
Here’s what this means:
- LinkedIn restricts access to profiles that you are not directly connected to, as well as those with whom you do not share any common connections.
- Your LinkedIn network consists of:
- 1st-degree connections: Direct contacts you have added.
- 2nd-degree connections: Contacts of your 1st-degree connections.
- 3rd-degree connections: Contacts of your 2nd-degree connections.
💡To learn more about how LinkedIn defines these connection levels, check out their official guide on degrees of connection.
Connecting to those profiles you are trying to visit, send messages to or scrape data from will remove the error in your Phantom's setup.
How to expand your LinkedIn network?
💡 Expanding your LinkedIn network is key to gaining access to more profiles and overcoming the "Profile out of network" restriction.
Here are a few strategies:
- Build your network by connecting with professionals in your field or those with shared interests.
- Participate in industry-related groups. This makes it easier to engage with members by allowing you to send messages within the groups or interact with their posts which can help build relationships and eventually lead to direct connections.
- Like or comment on content from people you want to connect with. This increases your visibility and may lead to more connection opportunities.
- Subscribing to Sales Navigator or other premium LinkedIn accounts provides advanced search options and the ability to access profiles beyond 3rd-degree connections.
Related guides
How to investigate why your Phantom gives error
Troubleshooting When "Missing Send Button (Or Premium Account Needed)"
You can contact Support at any time for additional details on your PhantomBuster workspace.