LinkedIn is a powerful networking tool, but sometimes you send a message you regret. Fortunately, deleting a LinkedIn message is possible, although the process differs slightly depending on whether you're using the mobile app or the desktop website. This guide will walk you through the steps, ensuring you can quickly and easily retract those accidental or ill-timed messages.
Deleting LinkedIn Messages on Desktop
The process of deleting sent messages on the LinkedIn desktop website is relatively straightforward:
Step 1: Locate the Message
Navigate to your LinkedIn messaging inbox. Find the message you wish to delete.
Step 2: Open the Message
Click on the message to open it in a new window.
Step 3: Delete the Message
Unfortunately, LinkedIn doesn't offer a single, simple "delete" button for sent messages. You can't directly delete a message you've already sent. However, you can remove it from your sent folder, which will prevent it from appearing in your message history.
Here's what you can do:
- Close the Message Window: The simplest way to deal with an unwanted message is to simply close the window or tab it's displayed in. This won't delete it from the recipient's inbox, but it removes it from your view.
- Archive the Conversation: While not a deletion, archiving hides the conversation from your inbox. Look for an archive option within the message settings. This keeps the message hidden but accessible if needed. This is the closest you can get to deleting a sent message on desktop.
Deleting LinkedIn Messages on Mobile App
Deleting or removing sent messages on the LinkedIn mobile app follows a similar approach to the desktop version. There is no "delete sent message" feature.
Step 1: Access Your Messages
Open the LinkedIn mobile app and go to your messages.
Step 2: Find the Message
Locate the message you want to remove from your view.
Step 3: Close or Archive
Similar to the desktop version, you can either close the message window, effectively removing it from your active view, or you can explore the conversation options for an archive feature. Archiving will hide the message from your main message list.
What Happens When You "Delete" a LinkedIn Message?
It's crucial to understand that even when you close the message window or archive a conversation, the recipient still has access to the message you sent. Your actions only affect your view of the message within your own LinkedIn account.
Preventing Future Accidental Sends
To avoid sending regrettable messages in the future, consider these preventative measures:
- Proofread Carefully: Always review your message before sending to catch any errors or unintended remarks.
- Use the "Save as Draft" Feature: If you're not ready to send immediately, save the message as a draft to review later.
- Pause Before Sending: Take a moment to consider the impact of your message before clicking "send."
Conclusion
While completely deleting a sent LinkedIn message isn't possible, you can effectively remove it from your view and manage your message history. Remember that the recipient will still retain a copy of the message. Following the steps in this guide, and practicing mindful messaging habits, will help you maintain a professional presence on LinkedIn. Understanding the limitations of LinkedIn's message deletion feature is key to using the platform effectively.
