Millions of people worldwide use the job search platform LinkedIn, which has long been viewed as a professional space for employees to network or seek better job opportunities. However, LinkedIn may soon become more than just a job search site. In an unusual move, similar to TikTok, LinkedIn has confirmed that it is working on a feature we all know: short videos, also known as "reels."
According to a report by TechRadar, LinkedIn stated that it is testing a short video feed for the platform, focusing on professional networking and career development. This step represents a significant departure from LinkedIn's traditional landscape, heralding a new era of dynamic content and interactive engagement within its community.
The report also mentioned that the journey towards this feature began when Austin Noll, strategy director at McKinney, stumbled upon a prototype for the video feed within LinkedIn's navigation bar. With a quick click on the "video" tab, users are directed to a vertical stream of concise and impactful videos.
The company also told TechRadar that videos are the preferred learning format for its users, hence the feature is being tested to allow users to easily find relevant videos. Furthermore, the report indicated that the feature is currently in the early testing phase and most people will not be able to use it just yet.
Social media consultant Rhea Freeman expressed that she is not surprised by LinkedIn's trial of short-form videos, believing it could attract younger users. She told the Daily Mail, "It's a trend that has swept social media platforms and gained popularity," noting that "if this leads to increased time spent by individuals on LinkedIn, it’s a win for the company."
It is understood that LinkedIn will not lose focus on professional networking and career development. Freeman added, "I think it’s important for each platform to maintain its identity... Social media applications have always been inspired to create their own versions of features from the highly successful TikTok app, owned by the Chinese company ByteDance."
At its core, introducing the short video stream represents more than just a technological upgrade; it symbolizes a cultural shift within the LinkedIn community. As professionals embrace the power of visual storytelling, the platform is becoming a hub for creativity, collaboration, and collective learning.
