In a digital world where professional connections fuel opportunities, having a backup of your LinkedIn contacts isn’t just “nice to have” it’s a strategic asset. Whether you’re switching jobs, starting a business, planning outreach, or simply securing your network, knowing how to export LinkedIn contacts gives you full control over your professional relationships.
Yet many users still don’t know this feature exists, where to find it, or how to use it effectively. In this full guide, we break down the process in a clear, news-style format explaining what exporting contacts means, how it works, why you may need it, and the safest way to use your exported data.
What Does It Mean to Export LinkedIn Contacts?
Exporting LinkedIn contacts simply means downloading a copy of your connection list from LinkedIn’s database directly to your device.
This export usually includes:
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Full names
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Email addresses (only if the user has allowed visibility)
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Locations
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Job titles
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Company names
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Connection dates
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Profile URLs
LinkedIn provides this as part of your Data Privacy rights, giving users the ability to access their own data whenever needed.
Who Can Export LinkedIn Contacts?
Anyone with a LinkedIn account whether on the free or premium plan can export their contacts. There are no restrictions based on account age, activity, or location.
However, the amount of visible information (such as email) depends on each contact’s privacy settings.
Where to Find the Export Option on LinkedIn
LinkedIn keeps the export tool inside Data Privacy Settings, not on the main contacts page.
You’ll find it under:
Settings → Data Privacy → Get a Copy of Your Data
This section lets you download various categories of data, including Connections, Messages, Profile Info, and more.
Why Exporting LinkedIn Contacts Is Important
People export LinkedIn contacts for different reasons. Some of the most common include:
✔ Backup for Safety
If your account gets restricted, hacked, or deleted, your network stays safe.
✔ Email Marketing & Outreach
Entrepreneurs and professionals export contacts to build email lists for business development while still following privacy and anti-spam rules.
✔ Career Management
Job seekers often store their network to track recruiters, HR contacts, and opportunities.
✔ Sales Prospecting
Sales teams use exported data to create targeted contact lists.
✔ Switching Jobs or Devices
You may want your contacts accessible offline or integrated into your CRM.
✔ Personal Organization
Some users prefer keeping a structured list outside LinkedIn for future reference.
How to Export LinkedIn Contacts (Step-by-Step Guide)
Exporting contacts takes less than three minutes. Follow these updated 2025 steps:
Step 1: Go to LinkedIn Settings
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Click your profile picture (top-right corner).
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Select Settings & Privacy.
Step 2: Navigate to “Data Privacy”
You will see various categories choose Data Privacy from the sidebar.
Step 3: Click “Get a Copy of Your Data”
This option lets you download any type of information stored by LinkedIn.
Step 4: Select “Connections”
You can either download everything or pick only Connections.
Step 5: Request File & Verify Identity
LinkedIn may ask for password verification for security.
Step 6: Wait for Email Download Link
Your data is usually ready within 10 minutes, but large accounts may take up to 24 hours.
Step 7: Download the File
You’ll get a CSV file that can be opened in Excel, Google Sheets, or a CRM tool.
What Format Do LinkedIn Exports Come In?
LinkedIn exports contacts in CSV format, including fields like:
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First Name
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Last Name
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Email (if visible)
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Company
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Position
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Profile URL
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Connection Date
This universal format works with:
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Excel
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Google Sheets
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Notion
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Airtable
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HubSpot CRM
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Salesforce
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Zoho CRM
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Mailchimp
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Outreach.io
How to Use Exported LinkedIn Contacts
1. Build a Professional Email List
You can create newsletters, business updates, or personal announcements while respecting consent and privacy laws.
2. Move Contacts to a CRM
Sales and marketing teams commonly import LinkedIn CSV files into CRM software.
3. Reconnect With Old Connections
Sort your list by date or company to identify people worth reconnecting with.
4. Track Career Changes
Your exported file helps you identify who moved companies or roles.
5. Create Backup Archives
Save offline copies for long-term safety.
6. Personal Networking Projects
Such as organizing contacts based on industry, skill sets, or interests.
“In the age of digital networking, you don’t truly own your network unless you have your own backup.”
Career Networking Expert
Common Problems & Fixes When Exporting LinkedIn Contacts
❗ Not Seeing Email Addresses
This happens when connections hide their email visibility.
Fix: You can only view emails of people who allow it no workaround exists.
❗ File Not Downloading
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Try another browser
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Disable VPN
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Clear cookies
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Update LinkedIn app/browser
❗ Export Option Missing
Check if your account is restricted or newly created (may delay availability).
❗ CSV Appears Blank
Open it with Google Sheets instead of Excel; sometimes formatting conflicts occur.
Is It Safe to Export LinkedIn Contacts?
Yes exporting your own data is secure and permitted under LinkedIn’s user rights.
However, be mindful of:
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Storing the file safely
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Avoiding spam or unauthorized marketing
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Respecting the privacy of contacts
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Complying with GDPR/anti-spam laws
Conclusion
Exporting your LinkedIn contacts gives you real ownership of your professional network. Whether you’re building a career, managing a business, or planning outreach, having a backup protects your connections and opens new opportunities for growth.
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