LinkedIn: definition, history and evolution of the famous professional network

by our Digital Agency and Social Media Agency Optimize 360

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When we think of social networks, we tend to think first and foremost of Facebook, Instagram or even Twitter.

However, there is one network that has managed to stand out and establish itself as an essential tool for professionals: LinkedIn.

In this article, discover the definition of this social network as well as its history and main developments.

What is LinkedIn?

LinkedIn is a social network dedicated to the professional world, bringing together individuals and companies to discuss various work-related topics, such as employment, finding professional opportunities and developing a network of contacts.

Created in December 2002 and launched in May 2003, this platform is now used by almost 750 million users in over 200 countries. Its main objective?

To enable its members to develop and share their skills in order to increase their professional success and benefit from new opportunities.

A history rich in innovation

Foundation and early years: an innovative idea

The origins of LinkedIn can be traced back to Reid Hoffmanan American entrepreneur who has already worked with a number of major companies in the digital sector, including Apple and PayPal.

The idea of creating a space dedicated to professional exchanges and meetings arose from the desire to break down the traditional barriers between individuals and companies.

Since 2003, LinkedIn has enabled everyone to create their own profile, share their skills and their interests with others. training and professional experience.

The first steps in development

LinkedIn experienced rapid growth in its early years, thanks in particular to features such as groups and recommendations, which encourage members to exchange ideas and seek out opportunities.

However, it was not until the arrival of Jeff Weinera former executive at Yahoo ! as CEO in 2009, to see the social network transform its business model and strengthen its positioning.

A decade of network acquisitions and improvements

Under the leadership of Jeff Weiner, LinkedIn has opted for an ambitious development plan, including a number of strategic acquisitions. These included SlideShare (a presentation-sharing platform) in 2012, Pulse (a mobile application dedicated to professional news) in 2013 and Lynda.com (a social networking site) in 2013. training online) in 2015.

Alongside these operations, LinkedIn is also working on constantly improving its features and services. In 2010, the company launched the concept ofInMails (private messages between members), followed by the possibility of publishing articles on its platform in 2014.

To further strengthen the professional side of its network, LinkedIn also offers users the opportunity to take online certifications to validate their skills in different areas.

The Microsoft takeover: a decisive turning point

In 2016, LinkedIn reached a major milestone in its history when Microsoft announced the acquisition of the social network for the sum of 26.2 billion.

In particular, the deal will enable Microsoft to integrate LinkedIn's services and data into its existing products, as well as taking advantage of its presence in the field of recruitment and online training.

What's more, this acquisition has provided a new strategic vision for the company's continued development over the coming years, particularly around artificial intelligence and the analysis of labour market data.

LinkedIn today: its main features

Now a key player in the professional world, LinkedIn has a host of features to enhance its use and facilitate interaction between members:

• Creating a profile : Each user can create their own personal page, detailing their professional and academic background and their specific skills.
• Networking : You can add contacts, usually colleagues, partners or business acquaintances, so you can talk to them and keep up to date with their news.
• Looking for a job : Members can search for job offers according to various criteria (position, sector, location, etc.) and apply directly via the platform by sending their profile.
• Publication of content : LinkedIn also allows you to share content with your network, in the form of articles, videos or presentations. In this way, members can discuss professional topics that may be of interest to them and help them in their personal or professional development.
• Training courses : The platform offers users access to a catalogue of online training courses, mainly resulting from the integration of Lynda.com. These courses cover a wide range of work-related areas, including management, technology and design.

Thanks to its constant evolution and its desire to develop new functionalities, LinkedIn has established itself as one of the most influential professional social networks today.

Its success story continues to fascinate and inspire many companies wishing to stand out in the digital market.