When LinkedIn’s search tool stops working, it can disrupt your outreach efforts. Whether you’re a recruiter, salesperson, or marketer, these 12 fixes can help you quickly resolve the issue:
- Clear Browser Cache and Cookies: Removes outdated data that may cause glitches.
- Update LinkedIn App or Browser: Ensures compatibility with the latest features.
- Adjust Search Filters: Simplify or reset overly restrictive filters.
- Check Account Status and Internet Connection: Verify search limits or fix unstable connections.
- Complete Your Profile: A thorough profile improves search visibility.
- Log Out and Log Back In: Resets your session to fix temporary issues.
- Turn Off Browser Extensions: Some extensions interfere with LinkedIn functionality.
- Try a Different Device or Network: Isolate whether the problem is device or network-specific.
- Contact LinkedIn Support: Get help for unresolved issues.
- Check for LinkedIn Service Problems: Confirm if LinkedIn is down.
- Double-Check Search Terms: Avoid typos or overly complex queries.
- Use AI Tools Like Closely: Automate outreach and bypass LinkedIn’s limitations.
Start with basic steps like clearing your cache or updating your browser. If the problem persists, explore advanced solutions like reaching out to LinkedIn Support or using external tools to improve your workflow.
Why LinkedIn Isn’t Working for You (And How to FIX It!)
1. Clear Browser Cache and Cookies
Your browser’s cache and cookies hold temporary data to speed up loading times. However, when this data becomes outdated, it can clash with LinkedIn’s current interface, leading to issues like malfunctioning filters, stalled search results, or error messages.
Why This Works for LinkedIn Search Issues
Clearing your cache and cookies is a simple yet effective way to tackle LinkedIn search problems. By removing outdated or corrupted temporary data, you can eliminate a common cause of platform glitches, restoring smooth functionality [1].
Quick and Easy for U.S. Users
This fix is straightforward and works across all major browsers in the U.S., such as Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge. You don’t need technical skills to do it – most users can complete the process in just a couple of minutes. Whether you use keyboard shortcuts or navigate through your browser’s settings, it’s a hassle-free solution.
Low Technical Difficulty
There’s nothing complicated about this process. It doesn’t require special permissions, and the only minor inconvenience is logging back into LinkedIn afterward. Simply head to your browser’s settings, locate the option to clear cache and cookies, and you’re good to go.
Boost to Search Functionality and Outreach
Once you’ve cleared your cache and cookies, you should notice immediate improvements. Filters will function as intended, search results will load fully, and those pesky error messages should vanish [1]. This fix helps you get back to efficiently finding prospects, applying filters, and managing your outreach without disruptions.
For the best results, LinkedIn advises using the latest version of your browser [1][2]. After clearing your cache and cookies, test LinkedIn search again. If problems persist, move on to the next troubleshooting step.
2. Update LinkedIn App or Browser
Once you’ve cleared your cache and cookies, the next step to tackle LinkedIn search issues is updating your browser or LinkedIn app. Using outdated software can cause all sorts of hiccups – filters might not work, search results could fail to load, or the entire function might freeze. Keeping your app or browser up to date ensures these compatibility problems are avoided and everything runs as it should.
Why Updating Helps Fix LinkedIn Search Problems
LinkedIn itself emphasizes the importance of using the latest browser versions for the best experience on the platform [7-10]. Regular browser updates often include fixes for compatibility glitches, ensuring LinkedIn and other modern web applications function smoothly. These updates are not just about new features – they’re critical for keeping essential tools like search working properly.
How Simple Is It to Update?
For most users in the U.S., updating your software is quick and hassle-free. Popular browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge often handle updates automatically in the background. In many cases, all you need to do is restart your browser. Mobile users can update the LinkedIn app with just a few taps via the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android). The best part? You don’t need to worry about losing your bookmarks, saved passwords, or login details – those stay intact.
Boosting Search Performance and Efficiency
Updating your software doesn’t just prevent glitches; it can also improve how LinkedIn performs overall. You might notice faster search results, smoother filter usage, and fewer errors during key tasks like prospecting. LinkedIn even suggests switching to a different browser if problems persist, highlighting how vital compatibility is. For professionals like salespeople and recruiters who depend on LinkedIn for finding leads, these updates can make a noticeable difference in productivity and reliability.
3. Adjust Search Filters and Settings
LinkedIn searches can sometimes feel broken, but the issue often lies in filters that are too restrictive or misconfigured. Many users unintentionally narrow their results so much that nothing matches. The fix? Adjusting these settings is simple and can instantly get your search back on track.
Quick Adjustments for U.S.-Based Users
Tweaking LinkedIn search filters is easy and takes just a few clicks. On desktop, filter options are conveniently located on the left side of your search results. For mobile users, the "All filters" button at the top of the results page provides access. If you’re in the U.S., you can fine-tune location settings to focus on specific cities, states, or regions. The interface is user-friendly – just click on categories like "Locations", "Current companies", or "Industries" to adjust your criteria.
To remove filters, click the "X" next to any active ones, or use the "Clear all" option to reset everything at once. Filters work consistently across search categories, making it easy to experiment with different combinations. This flexibility is crucial because overly strict filters are a common reason for empty search results.
Common Filter Pitfalls and How to Fix Them
Overly restrictive filters are one of the main reasons LinkedIn searches seem to fail. Combining multiple filters – like job titles, companies, locations, and experience levels – can create criteria that very few profiles meet. This is especially true when searching for niche industries or highly specific roles.
For U.S. users, location filters and connection settings often cause issues. For example, searching for "New York" might exclude profiles listing "NYC", "Manhattan", or "Brooklyn." Similarly, limiting your search to 1st-degree connections drastically reduces potential matches. Expanding to 2nd and 3rd-degree connections or trying alternative location terms can uncover profiles you might otherwise miss.
Boosting Search Results and Outreach Efficiency
Fine-tuning your search filters can dramatically improve your LinkedIn results. Instead of zero matches or irrelevant profiles, you’ll find qualified prospects you may have overlooked. This is especially important for sales professionals and recruiters who rely on LinkedIn for leads.
The best approach? Start by removing the most restrictive filters and gradually reapply them based on your results. For instance, if you’re searching for marketing managers in California and hitting a dead end, try removing the job title filter first, then the location filter, until you find a combination that works.
The goal is to strike a balance – not too broad where you get overwhelmed with irrelevant results, but not so narrow that you miss valuable prospects. By finding this sweet spot, you’ll maximize your outreach potential while keeping your search results relevant.
4. Check Account Status and Internet Connection
If you’re having trouble with LinkedIn’s search function, the issue might stem from your account’s limitations or a shaky internet connection. Both factors can disrupt how search results load and display. Here’s how to quickly check and address these potential problems.
Simple Steps for U.S.-Based Users
Verifying your account status and network connection is a quick and easy process. LinkedIn often notifies users when they’re nearing their monthly search limits, so check your dashboard for any alerts. To rule out internet issues, try loading other websites or run a speed test on your device. Even with a stable broadband connection, occasional slowdowns can mess with how search results appear.
Why Understanding Search Limits Matters
LinkedIn’s search limits can be a key factor in resolving search-related issues. If you’re on a basic account, remember that monthly search limits reset at midnight PST on the 1st of each month. Once you hit that limit, your search functionality will be restricted until the limits reset – or you decide to upgrade your account [3]. These limits are based on activity patterns, like viewing multiple profiles outside your network, searching for specific companies, or conducting broader searches [3]. LinkedIn Help clarifies:
If you’ve exhausted your free searches for the month, your activity will indicate that you’re likely using LinkedIn for recruiting or generating leads.
Keeping Search Performance on Track
Premium accounts come with higher search allowances, but if you cancel a Premium plan, your limits will immediately revert to the basic tier without resetting [3]. Keeping an eye on your search activity ensures that you can maintain smooth performance and continue outreach efforts without interruptions.
5. Complete Your Profile Information
Filling out your LinkedIn profile completely isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s a must for better search performance. When you provide detailed information in key sections, LinkedIn can better identify you as a legitimate user. This not only improves how you show up in search results but also gives you access to more refined search filters, making your networking efforts much more effective.
Why a Complete Profile Matters for Search Results
When your profile is thorough, LinkedIn’s search algorithm works in your favor. It can deliver more relevant search results and even improve how your profile is ranked. Plus, a complete profile signals to LinkedIn that you’re a genuine user – not a spam account. This can influence how often your profile is suggested to others, whether in search results or as a connection recommendation.
How to Update Your Profile (U.S.-Specific Tips)
Updating your profile is straightforward and doesn’t require any technical know-how. Focus on these key areas:
- Job Title and Company: Clearly state your current role and employer.
- Location: Use U.S. formatting for your city and state.
- Work History: Include detailed roles with start and end dates in MM/YYYY format.
- Education and Skills: List your educational background and highlight your top skills.
Don’t forget the extras that make a big difference: upload a professional headshot, write a compelling summary, and use LinkedIn’s profile strength indicator to track your progress. Just click the "Edit" buttons, fill in your details, and save – it’s that simple.
Boosting Visibility and Networking Success
A well-rounded profile doesn’t just help you show up in searches – it makes you stand out. When potential connections visit your profile, they’ll see a clear picture of your expertise and experience. This builds trust and increases the chances of positive responses to your outreach. In short, a complete profile isn’t just about visibility – it’s about credibility, too.
6. Log Out and Log Back In
If tweaking your browser settings hasn’t done the trick, it might be time to reset your session. When LinkedIn’s search starts acting up, a simple log-out and log-in can often clear out those temporary hiccups that disrupt the platform’s functionality.
Why This Works for LinkedIn Search Issues
Logging out and back in is a tried-and-true method for addressing unexpected LinkedIn glitches. It helps reset your session, which can resolve issues like authentication errors or conflicts that might be blocking your search results from loading properly [1]. While it won’t solve every problem, it’s a reliable fix for session-related bugs.
Quick Steps for U.S.-Based Users
It’s easy to log out and back in on LinkedIn. Just click on the "Me" icon in the top-right corner, select "Sign Out", and then log back in. Once you’re back in, test the search function to see if the issue is resolved.
Getting Back to Business
After resetting your session, your search tool should work as expected. This means you can get back to finding prospects, researching companies, and uncovering networking opportunities without interruptions.
7. Turn Off Browser Extensions
Browser extensions can sometimes interfere with LinkedIn’s functionality. While they can be helpful, certain extensions may slow down loading times, trigger pop-ups, cause security alerts, or disrupt navigation[5]. Moreover, LinkedIn strictly forbids third-party tools that scrape data, modify the interface, or automate actions. Using such tools could lead to account restrictions or even permanent closure[6]. To tackle this, you’ll need to identify the problematic extension by disabling them one at a time.
How to Quickly Disable Extensions
Disabling browser extensions is simple and doesn’t require any technical expertise. A good way to test this is by opening LinkedIn in Incognito or private mode, as extensions are automatically disabled in these modes[1]. If LinkedIn works fine in this mode, it’s a strong indicator that an extension is causing the issue. For a thorough check, temporarily turn off all extensions and restart your browser[4].
Restoring LinkedIn’s Search and Functionality
Once you’ve pinpointed and disabled the problematic extension, LinkedIn’s search and overall performance should improve. If turning off all extensions resolves the issue, re-enable them one by one, testing LinkedIn after each activation. This step-by-step approach will help you identify the culprit while keeping the extensions you rely on. After isolating the troublesome extension, you can continue troubleshooting if other issues persist. This method ensures smoother LinkedIn prospecting and networking without unnecessary disruptions.
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8. Try a Different Device or Network
Sometimes issues with LinkedIn’s search functionality aren’t caused by the platform itself but by your device or internet connection. Testing your search on a different device or network can help you figure out if the problem is specific to your setup or something more widespread.
Start by trying LinkedIn on a different browser or device. For example, if you’re using Chrome, switch to Firefox or Safari. If you’re on a desktop, check the search feature on your smartphone or tablet. Mobile users should stick to the official LinkedIn app for the best results[1][7]. Additionally, ensure your internet connection is stable by switching to a different network.
If you’re using Wi-Fi, try switching to cellular data (like 4G or 5G), or vice versa. This can help identify whether your internet provider or a specific connection is causing the issue[7].
Effectiveness in Resolving LinkedIn Search Issues
If switching devices or networks resolves the problem, the issue is likely isolated to your current setup. However, if the problem persists across multiple devices and networks, it could indicate a broader issue, such as a LinkedIn service outage or an account-specific problem[1][7][8].
Ease of Implementation for U.S.-Based Users
Most professionals in the U.S. have access to multiple devices and networks, making this troubleshooting step straightforward and easy to execute[7].
Impact on Search Performance and Outreach
While this step won’t directly improve LinkedIn’s search functionality, it helps you identify whether the problem lies in your device or connection. This clarity can guide your next steps in resolving the issue.
Note: Switching devices might prompt two-factor authentication. Be sure to approve any sign-in notifications promptly. Also, avoid logging in on multiple devices simultaneously, as this could lead to account restrictions[9][10][11].
9. Contact LinkedIn Support
If you’ve tried every troubleshooting step and LinkedIn’s search feature still isn’t working, it’s time to reach out to LinkedIn Support. This step is essential when fixes like clearing your browser cache, switching browsers, or logging back into your account don’t solve the issue.
For Premium LinkedIn members, there’s the added convenience of a Live Chat option for customer service. However, if you’re using a free account, you’ll need to submit a support ticket through LinkedIn’s help center. Keep in mind, LinkedIn does not offer phone-based customer service. Be cautious of third-party websites claiming to provide paid phone support – they’re not affiliated with LinkedIn.
To get started, log into your LinkedIn account and go to the LinkedIn Support homepage. Click on "Get help", select "Other", and search for your issue. If no solution pops up, choose "Create support ticket." Make sure to describe your problem clearly, mention the browsers and versions you’ve tried, and include a screenshot to give the support team a better understanding of your issue.
Why Contacting LinkedIn Support Can Help
When standard fixes don’t work, LinkedIn Support is your best bet. Their agents have access to tools and backend systems that can identify account-specific issues or broader platform problems. This allows them to offer solutions that go beyond what self-service troubleshooting can provide.
How Simple Is the Process for U.S. Users?
For users in the United States, the process is fairly straightforward, though it does require some patience. Premium members typically get quicker responses via Live Chat, while free users may need to wait longer for a resolution through the ticket system. Fortunately, LinkedIn’s help center is designed with clear navigation to guide you through the process.
Restoring Search Functionality and Outreach
While reaching out to support won’t fix the problem instantly, it often leads to a permanent solution. Once resolved, your LinkedIn search functionality will be restored, allowing you to return to seamless prospecting and outreach efforts without any limitations. This step ensures your LinkedIn experience gets back on track for effective networking and productivity.
10. Check for LinkedIn Service Problems
If your LinkedIn search isn’t working, the issue might not be on your end – it could be a problem with LinkedIn itself. Before diving into troubleshooting your device or settings, it’s a good idea to check if LinkedIn is experiencing technical difficulties or outages.
Start by visiting LinkedIn’s official Status Page. It provides updates on current service disruptions, scheduled maintenance, and other technical issues in real time.
For a broader view, you can use Downdetector, a platform that collects user reports about outages. It shows a 24-hour timeline of reported problems compared to normal activity levels. It also highlights common complaints like login issues, mobile app errors, or website glitches. Plus, Downdetector pulls in real-time feedback from social media, giving you a quick snapshot of the situation.
While this step won’t directly fix your search issues, it can save you time and effort. If LinkedIn is dealing with widespread problems, you’ll know the issue isn’t related to your account, browser, or device settings – helping you avoid unnecessary troubleshooting.
The best part? You don’t need any special software or an account to check. Just open your web browser and visit the LinkedIn Status Page or Downdetector.
By confirming whether LinkedIn is having service problems, you can streamline your troubleshooting process. If there are widespread outages, it’s likely the search functionality is temporarily affected. Knowing this allows you to adjust your plans, like postponing prospecting activities or focusing on other tasks until the service is back to normal.
If no service disruptions are reported, move on to the next steps to tackle your LinkedIn search issues.
11. Double-Check Your Search Terms
Sometimes, LinkedIn searches don’t deliver the results you’re looking for, and the culprit might be how you’re entering your search terms. Even small mistakes in phrasing can throw off the relevance of your results.
For instance, including common stop words like "a", "of", or "the" can unintentionally confuse LinkedIn’s algorithm. When you type something like "Director of Marketing", LinkedIn may interpret it as "Director AND Marketing", which pulls up profiles with either word, not necessarily someone with that exact title. This issue often leads to a flood of irrelevant results.
If you’re using LinkedIn Recruiter tools, keep in mind that these tools ignore connectors like "and", "or", and "of." This means they might only partially match your intended search phrase, which can further reduce the accuracy of your results [1].
To fix this, simplify your queries and use quotation marks for exact matches. For example, instead of searching "VP of Sales in New York", try "VP Sales New York." Similarly, replace "Director of Human Resources" with "Director Human Resources" or "HR Director." Quotation marks are especially useful when you need precise results. Searching for "Product Manager" in quotes will only return profiles with that exact title, while leaving out the quotes will broaden the search to include anyone with either "Product" or "Manager" in their profile.
Lastly, always double-check your spelling. A typo in a job title or company name can result in zero results, so accuracy is key.
Effectiveness in Resolving LinkedIn Search Issues
Fine-tuning your search terms can significantly improve your LinkedIn experience. By addressing the root cause of irrelevant results, this simple adjustment can quickly turn a frustrating search into a productive one.
Ease of Implementation for U.S.-Based Users
This solution is straightforward and doesn’t require any technical expertise. Whether you’re on a desktop or mobile device, you can immediately apply these changes without needing additional tools or account modifications.
Technical Complexity (Low/High)
Low complexity. All it takes is a bit of editing and attention to detail.
Impact on Search Performance and Outreach
By refining your search terms, you’ll cut down on irrelevant results, saving time and effort. This means you can focus on connecting with the right people, making your outreach campaigns more efficient and improving your lead generation efforts.
12. Use Closely’s AI-Powered Tools for Better Search and Outreach
If LinkedIn’s search tools leave you feeling stuck, it might be time to try something different. Closely’s AI-powered platform offers a smarter way to handle outreach and gather prospect data. Instead of struggling with LinkedIn’s built-in limitations, Closely automates the entire outreach process and fills in the gaps LinkedIn often misses.
One standout feature is the LinkedIn email finder, which enriches your prospect data in real time. It pulls verified business emails and phone numbers – details that LinkedIn’s standard search doesn’t provide. This eliminates the need for manual data collection, saving you time and effort.
Closely’s AI personalization engine is another game-changer. It analyzes LinkedIn profiles and company information to create personalized, human-like messages at scale. No more spending hours researching each prospect or crafting individual messages – this tool does the heavy lifting for you.
The platform also simplifies your workflow by managing multichannel campaigns from one centralized dashboard. This means you can handle prospecting, messaging, and response tracking without juggling multiple tools. It’s a huge time-saver for anyone looking to streamline their outreach efforts.
For deeper insights, Closely’s lead scoring and web research tools provide valuable details about prospects, giving you conversation starters and a better understanding of who you’re reaching out to.
How Closely Tackles LinkedIn Search Limitations
While Closely doesn’t directly fix LinkedIn’s technical search issues, it works around them entirely. The platform addresses challenges like incomplete contact data, time-consuming research, and the difficulty of scaling personalized outreach – areas where LinkedIn’s native tools often fall short.
Easy Setup for U.S.-Based Teams
Getting started with Closely is quick and straightforward. U.S.-based sales teams can connect their LinkedIn accounts and email systems in just a few minutes, with no technical expertise required. The intuitive dashboard and unified inbox make it easy to use, especially for teams already familiar with CRM and outreach tools.
Technical Complexity: Low
Closely keeps things simple for users. While the platform handles complex tasks like data enrichment and AI-driven message creation behind the scenes, the interface remains user-friendly. You don’t need to worry about the technical details – Closely takes care of it all.
Boosting Search and Outreach Results
By automating prospecting and replacing manual LinkedIn searches, Closely helps users achieve better outreach efficiency. Features like verified contact data, AI-powered message personalization, and multichannel campaign management turn tedious search sessions into focused, results-driven efforts. The result? Higher response rates and more effective campaigns, all while bypassing LinkedIn’s inherent limitations. This tool is a powerful addition to any outreach strategy, complementing earlier fixes by streamlining and elevating your approach.
Fix Comparison Table
This table provides a quick reference for resolving LinkedIn search issues, summarizing the key points of 12 troubleshooting methods. For detailed instructions, refer to the sections above.
| Fix | Details |
|---|---|
| Clear Browser Cache and Cookies | Removes stored site data that might cause display or functionality problems. Note: This action may log you out of certain websites. |
| Update LinkedIn App or Browser | Keeps you on the latest version with updated features and improved compatibility. Be aware that the interface might look slightly different. |
| Adjust Search Filters and Settings | Broadening overly narrow filters can improve search results. However, this doesn’t address deeper technical issues. |
| Check Account Status and Internet Connection | Ensures your account is active and your internet connection is stable, resolving basic connectivity issues. |
| Complete Your Profile Information | A fully completed profile can gradually improve your search visibility. |
| Log Out and Log Back In | Refreshes your session, often resolving minor glitches. This is usually a short-term fix. |
| Turn Off Browser Extensions | Identifies if extensions are interfering with LinkedIn. Temporarily disables helpful features while testing. |
| Try a Different Device or Network | Helps determine if the issue is related to your current device or internet setup. |
| Contact LinkedIn Support | Offers expert help for more complex or unresolved problems. |
| Check for LinkedIn Service Problems | Verifies if LinkedIn is experiencing outages or system-wide issues. |
| Double-Check Your Search Terms | Even small typos can lead to inaccurate results, so reviewing your terms is crucial. |
| Use Closely’s AI-Powered Tools for Better Search and Outreach | Provides an alternative with advanced tools to refine your search and outreach efforts when LinkedIn’s native tools fall short. |
You can combine these methods as needed to improve your LinkedIn search experience.
Conclusion
Resolving LinkedIn search issues is a must for anyone relying on the platform for outreach and lead generation. When search features fail, it disrupts your workflow, wastes time, and ultimately impacts your bottom line. Frank Risalvato, CPC, President of Insurance Recruiting, underscores the frustration many face:
"I don’t think Linkedin wants its search feature working accurately. We spend a combined 10 hrs weekly just McGuyvering the faulty search results." [12]
Spending ten hours a week troubleshooting search problems doesn’t just waste time – it means fewer leads and missed opportunities.
This article outlined 12 practical fixes to tackle common LinkedIn search challenges. Start with the basics: clear your browser cache, update the app, or refine your search filters. These quick steps often resolve issues in minutes. If those don’t work, try more advanced solutions like switching devices or reaching out to LinkedIn support.
Don’t delay in addressing search problems. LinkedIn monitors search usage and may flag lead generation activities if the tool isn’t functioning correctly [3]. A broken search tool can derail your entire strategy.
For those frequently hitting search limits, upgrading to LinkedIn Premium, Sales Navigator, or Recruiter could be a game-changer. These accounts provide more robust search features, which are essential for serious prospecting efforts [3]. And if LinkedIn’s native search still doesn’t meet your needs, tools like Closely’s AI-powered platform can fill the gap with automation and personalized messaging.
It’s worth noting that search accuracy issues on LinkedIn, including problems with Boolean searches and filters, have been a long-standing complaint among users [12]. Leveraging complementary tools can help maintain your outreach effectiveness when LinkedIn’s search lets you down.
FAQs
Why should I update my LinkedIn app or browser to improve search performance?
Keeping your LinkedIn app or browser up to date is key to maintaining smooth and reliable search functionality. Updates typically address bugs, improve performance, and enhance security, all of which contribute to a seamless user experience.
Using the latest version also ensures that you can take full advantage of LinkedIn’s newest features and improvements. Staying updated minimizes glitches and helps you get the most out of LinkedIn’s tools, making it easier to meet your professional goals.
How do I check if a browser extension is interfering with LinkedIn’s search feature?
If you’re experiencing trouble with LinkedIn’s search, a browser extension might be the culprit. Start by temporarily disabling all your extensions. After doing this, refresh LinkedIn and try using the search tool again. If the problem disappears, re-enable your extensions one at a time to pinpoint which one is causing the issue. To prevent similar problems down the line, make sure to keep only trusted extensions active.
What should I do if LinkedIn search still doesn’t work after trying all the fixes?
If LinkedIn’s search feature still isn’t functioning despite trying all the recommended fixes, your best move is to contact LinkedIn support. When reaching out, make sure to explain the problem clearly. Include details like the troubleshooting steps you’ve already taken, the browser or device you’re using, and any relevant information such as error messages or screenshots. Providing this information will make it easier for LinkedIn to investigate and address the issue efficiently.