LinkedIn is the weirdest social media platform I’ve ever used — but I kind of like it.
I’ve been on LinkedIn for a while now, and I’m starting to think this platform might actually be for me. However, I’m still hesitant to download the app on my phone because, at the end of the day, LinkedIn operates like any other social media platform — it can be distracting if not used intentionally.
That said, there’s something about LinkedIn that stands out.
The Strange Culture of LinkedIn
Unlike Instagram, where people showcase the best parts of their lives, LinkedIn is a space where people showcase their most professional selves. It’s like being at work 24/7. Everyone seems to be presenting an ultra-polished, career-focused version of themselves, carefully aligning their behaviour with corporate expectations. But in reality, even in professional settings, people aren’t always like this.
Despite this robotic feel, I find myself drawn to the platform.
Why I Like It
Most of what I see in my feed is inspiring and motivating — even when it’s not meant to be. There’s a sense that people here are striving for something, that they’re actively moving forward in life.
Of course, LinkedIn still has the same comparison trap as other social platforms. Instead of “Look at my holiday” or “Check out my outfit,” it’s “Look at where I’ve worked” and “See which university I went to.” And in some ways, this can be even more intense than the lifestyle envy seen on other platforms.
Why I Joined
I didn’t join LinkedIn to network or look for jobs. Someone suggested that my content — focused on self improvement and personal development — would resonate with the audience here. Even though LinkedIn is primarily about professional growth, the two areas overlap significantly.
I was also intrigued by the idea that LinkedIn is an effective platform for marketing. Like any other social media, it has its own strategies and algorithms that need to be understood and leveraged.
The Psychological Hook of LinkedIn
Like all social media platforms, LinkedIn plays on a fundamental human desire — here, it’s the need for career progression.
Just as people turn to Facebook when they feel lonely or YouTube when they want to be entertained, LinkedIn gives users the illusion of actively advancing their careers. But is that always the case? Or is it just another psychological trick that keeps people engaged, scrolling through posts about promotions, achievements, and career advice without taking real action?
Why I Don’t Use LinkedIn for Job Hunting
When I search for jobs, I prefer full focus and minimal distractions. That’s why I’ve always used platforms like Indeed or applied directly through company websites. In my mind, casually browsing LinkedIn for jobs suggests a lack of clarity about what you truly want.
If you’re serious about a career move, job searching should be a dedicated effort — not something done passively while scrolling through a feed. Signing up directly with companies ensures that I’m engaging with real opportunities rather than relying on LinkedIn’s algorithm to surface the right roles.
The Problem with the “Open to Work” Badge
One thing I dislike about LinkedIn is the “Open to Work” badge. While it’s meant to signal availability to recruiters, it can also encourage a passive mindset.
In sales, there are two types of people:
- Those who wait for customers to come to them.
- Those who actively go out and get customers.
The same principle applies here. If you have an established brand and reputation, opportunities might naturally come your way. But for most people, simply announcing that you’re looking for work won’t create results. The real game-changer is proactively reaching out, building connections, and taking control of the process.
Final Thoughts
While I don’t see LinkedIn as a job search tool for myself, I do see its potential in other areas — especially in entrepreneurship and personal branding. I’m curious to explore different LinkedIn tools and see whether the platform can be leveraged for more than just networking. If used intentionally, maybe this platform can be more than just another digital space — it could actually provide real opportunities.
