You are overwhelmed with messages on LinkedIn and worry about appearing unresponsive? Setting up an automatic reply can transform how you manage your inbox, allowing you to stay professional even when unavailable. It is a simple way to manage expectations and ensure your important contacts do not feel ignored.
The Benefits of an Away Message on LinkedIn
Using a scheduled reply on LinkedIn offers several strategic advantages, whether you are a heavily solicited salesperson, a recruiter, or a freelancer managing multiple projects.
First, it helps to manage expectations. By immediately informing your contacts of your absence and return date, you prevent misunderstandings and frustration.
Second, it is a sign of professionalism. A well-crafted away message shows that you are organized and attentive, which builds trust and credibility.
Finally, it helps save time and reduce stress. Instead of checking messages during your vacation or travel, you can disconnect peacefully knowing your contacts are informed.
Setting Up Your Away Message: LinkedIn’s Native Feature
LinkedIn offers a built-in feature called Away Message — but it comes with an important limitation.
Premium Feature: Only LinkedIn Premium subscribers can activate away messages. Free accounts do not have access to this option.
You can schedule an away message for up to three months, and it will only be sent in 1:1 conversations, not group chats.
Activating Your Away Message on Desktop
Click the Messaging icon at the top of LinkedIn.
In your inbox, click the More (three dots) icon.
Select Set Away Message.
Toggle the switch on.
Set your Start Date and End Date.
Write your personalized message.
Click Save.
Activating Your Away Message on Mobile
Tap the Messaging icon.
Tap the More (three dots) icon.
Select Set Away Message.
Toggle the switch on.
Choose the Start Date and End Date.
Type your message.
Tap Save.
To modify or deactivate, simply return to this menu.
Automatic Reply vs. Suggested Replies: What’s the Difference?
LinkedIn provides another feature often confused with auto-replies: Smart Replies.
Smart Replies are short AI-generated suggestions (e.g., “Thanks”, “Sounds good”, 👍).
Away Messages are fully personalized replies you write, automatically sent during a scheduled period.
Comparison Table
Feature | Away Message (Auto-Reply) | Suggested Reply (Smart Reply) |
|---|---|---|
Trigger | Automatic during a set time period | Manual; click to send |
Customization | Fully customizable text & dates | Not customizable |
Purpose | Communicate unavailability | Quick replies |
Availability | Premium only | All users |
Use Cases | Vacation, travel, workload overload | Quick responses, acknowledgements |
Personalizing Automatic Messages According to Context
For Freelancers and Job Seekers
Example message:
Hello,
This is an automatic reply. Thank you for your message.
To help you better evaluate a potential collaboration:
I am currently available only for assignments in [your domain] with a daily rate starting at XXX €.
My portfolio: [Portfolio link]
My detailed CV: [CV link]
If your project matches my profile, you can book a meeting directly here: [Calendly link].
Please specify the client’s name, mission duration, and budget in your invitation.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
For Corporate Professionals
Example:
Hello,
Thank you for your message. I am currently on a business trip and have limited access to LinkedIn. I will reply when I return on [Date].
For energy studies (solar panels, heat pumps, EV chargers), please fill out this quick form: [Form link]
For technical or maintenance requests, contact our support team at [support email] or [phone].
In case of emergency, you may contact my colleague [Name] at [email].
Thank you for your understanding.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Technical Advisor – Les Nouveaux Installateurs
Best Practices for a Professional Away Message
Be concise and clear
Stay professional
Specify a return date
Offer alternatives
Proofread carefully
Don’t overuse auto-replies — they should be used only for real unavailability.
FAQ: LinkedIn Automatic Replies
Can you configure an automatic reply for free?
No — only Premium members can use the native feature.
What is the maximum duration?
Up to three months.
Is the away message sent in group chats?
No — only in 1:1 conversations.
How can I make my message effective?
Be clear, include your return date, provide alternatives, and avoid mistakes.
























































































































































































































