Why Would My Former Employer View My LinkedIn Account?

The frequency with which my former employer views my LinkedIn account is concerning and can be distressing. While it's natural to wonder about their motivations, it's crucial to understand that such behavior often crosses the line into stalking, which is never healthy. Instead of getting bogged down in reasons, it's best to take a proactive approach to safeguard your digital privacy. Blocking or limiting access to your profile can help ensure your security.

Stalking vs. Professional Inquiry

When a former boss monitors your LinkedIn profile, they are not genuinely seeking professional advice or insight. Stalking behaviors are characterized by obsessive or unwanted scrutiny, which can be unsettling and damaging to your peace of mind. If someone is following you or seeking information in an invasive manner, it's important to block them through LinkedIn and other platforms.

Protecting Your Privacy

To prevent unwanted interactions and potential stalking, it's a good idea to set your LinkedIn profile to private. This way, only people you approve can view your information, reducing the risk of unwanted scrutiny. Additionally, do not allow unknown individuals to view your profile. This can help mitigate the risk of having your privacy breached.

Why Blocking Is Essential

Blocking or limiting access to your LinkedIn profile is key to maintaining your privacy. Blocking a user on LinkedIn means that they will no longer be able to see any information about you or interact with your profile. Moreover, blocking them on platforms like Facebook may be equally important to safeguarding your online presence.

Understanding Possible Motivations

While the motivations behind a former employer's monitoring can be varied, it's helpful to consider a few common scenarios. They might be curious about your current activities, considering re-employment, or even have unprofessional romantic interests. Regardless of the reason, it's essential to maintain a professional and assertive boundary.

Updating Your Profile

To stay proactive, it's a good idea to keep your LinkedIn profile up-to-date. Ensure that your profile includes recent work experience, skills, and education. Regular updates show that you are actively engaged in career development. This can also help protect you from unscrupulous individuals who might be looking to take advantage of your inactivity.

Public Privacy and Online Scrutiny

Your online presence is open to public scrutiny, so it's crucial to maintain a professional image. Just as you would want a potential employer to see you in the best light, it's important to control your digital footprint. Any information you share online can be used against you, so it's important to be cautious and considerate about your online activities.