why do some linkedin profiles say message instead of connect

Why Do Some LinkedIn Profiles Say Message Instead of Connect

On LinkedIn, the options you see on someone's profile—whether it's 'Message' or 'Connect'—can vary due to several reasons. Understanding these reasons can help clarify user confusion and enhance the understanding of LinkedIn's networking features. The primary reasons include:

• If you haven't confirmed your primary email, the email bounced, or a new email needs confirmation, the 'Connect' button may not appear.
• You're already connected to the member, which replaces the 'Connect' option with 'Message'.
• You've already sent the member a connection request, which temporarily removes the 'Connect' button until they respond.
• Having over 500 connections can change the default action to 'Follow', with the 'Connect' option moving to the dropdown menu under the 'More' button.
• If you or the member whose profile you're viewing has selected 'Follow' as the default option instead of 'Connect' or turned on Creator mode, the 'Connect' button will be replaced with 'Follow'.

Note that InMail messages allow you to send a direct message to a member you aren't connected to within your network. However, if you have a Basic (free) account, you must upgrade to a Premium account to use InMail credits. Premium account holders can purchase additional InMail message credits if needed.

If you encounter a profile without a 'Connect' button and wish to connect, you can click on the 'More' button on their profile and select 'Connect' from the dropdown menu. Remember to write a thoughtful, personalized invitation, as this increases the likelihood of your request being accepted.