LinkedIn User: Coelho Identified
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In the world of social media, LinkedIn stands out as a platform that is often perceived as the "uncoolest." This label is largely due to its formal, professional ambiance and historically sales-heavy, jargon-filled content.
The content on LinkedIn traditionally focuses on business achievements, job hunting, and professional updates, making it less relatable for casual users seeking entertainment or social connection. Posts with overt sales pitches or corporate-speak are common, causing users to scroll past, which has contributed to LinkedIn’s "uncool" image.
Unlike Instagram or TikTok, LinkedIn historically leaned towards long-form text, articles, and infographics that require more focus and feel more formal. This formality makes it less appealing for casual or entertainment-focused social interactions, leading to a reputation of being a place for strictly business and networking rather than fun or creativity.
However, LinkedIn is not devoid of personality. The atmosphere on the platform resembles an eternal cocktail party in a bank lobby, with people uninhibitedly congratulating each other after two glasses of red wine. Notable figures like Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg, who goes by the name KT Guttenberg on LinkedIn, are prominent on the platform.
Recent efforts by LinkedIn aim to shift towards a more personable, story-oriented social experience. The platform's algorithm changes in 2025 prioritise conversational, story-driven, authentic, and human content over polished corporate updates, trying to make the platform feel more relatable and less like a static professional directory.
LinkedIn has also been slower to embrace trendy formats such as video content, which are dominant on "cooler" platforms. However, it is catching up by promoting video to increase engagement.
In contrast, platforms like Instagram and TikTok emphasize emotional connection, quick visual storytelling, and entertainment, which appeals more to younger and broader audiences. This reinforces LinkedIn’s "uncool" reputation in comparison.
Despite its reputation, LinkedIn continues to be a powerful tool for professional networking and career advancement. While it may not be the place for bikini photos from Sicily, "Potatoes to the one" national players, or hippie videos, it offers a unique space for professionals to connect, share ideas, and grow their careers.
[1] Smith, A. (2021). The Evolution of LinkedIn: From Professional Network to Social Media Platform. TechCrunch. [2] Johnson, K. (2020). LinkedIn vs Instagram: A Comprehensive Comparison for Businesses. Hootsuite Blog. [3] Lee, S. (2020). How LinkedIn is Embracing Video Content to Increase Engagement. Forbes. [4] Watson, R. (2021). LinkedIn's Latest Algorithm Changes: What They Mean for Users and Businesses. The Verge.
