Tech editor at Bloomberg Businessweek, Sarah Frier, discusses the increasing popularity of LinkedIn as a social media platform amidst economic uncertainty. They explore the shifting behavior and content on LinkedIn, its revenue growth during the pandemic, and its significance in people's lives.
LinkedIn has transformed from a cringy platform to a valuable tool for journalists and job seekers alike, offering reliable information verification and networking opportunities.
LinkedIn's focus on knowledge sharing, stability, and a blend of personal and professional connections has attracted younger users and positioned it as a versatile platform for various needs.
Deep dives
LinkedIn's Shift from Cringy to Useful
Despite initial perceptions of LinkedIn being cringy and inauthentic, many users now recognize its usefulness as a professional networking tool. LinkedIn provides journalists with a reliable platform for verifying information, finding sources, and connecting with potential employers. Even listeners have found LinkedIn to be an interesting social media platform, especially when searching for new work. It offers a balance between professional networking and personal expression, making it a versatile platform for various users.
LinkedIn's Growth and Adaptation
Amidst the changing landscape of social media platforms prioritizing video and entertainment, LinkedIn has positioned itself as a space for knowledge sharing and conversation. The data shows a significant increase in users regularly posting content on LinkedIn, treating it more like a traditional social network. The stability and the blend of personal and professional connections on LinkedIn have attracted younger generations who seek to build identities beyond a single employer. LinkedIn's revenue and posted content have surged, signaling a positive trajectory for the platform.
LinkedIn's Distinct Position in the Social Media Landscape
Unlike other social media platforms that heavily rely on advertising and attention-based models, LinkedIn has diversified its revenue streams with recruiting and sales functionalities. Its focus on professionalism and established networks has allowed LinkedIn to navigate economic turbulence and cater to the needs of job seekers and businesses alike. The culture of professionalism on LinkedIn contributes to a more civil environment, where conflicts tend to be resolved publicly, and hate speech is less prevalent. To maintain its growth, LinkedIn needs to continue providing value to its users, potentially exploring more monetization opportunities and capitalizing on the growing influencer trend.
As Twitt—sorry, X—continues to go through tumult, an unlikely, long-time player is emerging as the last acceptable place to post.
Guest: Sarah Frier, tech editor at Bloomberg Businessweek.
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