NAIROBI, Kenya- In today’s tech landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) is the driving force behind innovation, and LinkedIn is harnessing this momentum to launch a suite of new AI-powered services aimed at boosting user engagement and functionality.
On Thursday, LinkedIn unveiled a series of tools designed to streamline everything from job searches to learning and professional networking.
LinkedIn’s investment in AI is a strategic move to integrate AI seamlessly into user experiences.
The new tools range from job application assistance, including AI-generated cover letters, to personalized learning content and improved search functionalities.
This comprehensive approach underscores LinkedIn’s commitment to leveraging AI to enhance user interaction on the platform.
A Legacy of AI Integration
LinkedIn’s journey with AI isn’t new. The company has been embedding AI into its products since its early days.
Tomer Cohen, LinkedIn’s head of product, emphasized this in an interview with TechCrunch: “We’ve been building with AI since 2007.”
This long-standing relationship with AI is evident in LinkedIn’s connection suggestions and its efforts to maintain trust and security on the platform.
“We use it heavily for connecting people… for defense and how we keep trust in the ecosystem. It’s one of our most powerful tools,” Cohen added.
However, the current wave of AI innovation presents new opportunities for LinkedIn to help users perform tasks that are traditionally human-centric.
The company aims to ride this wave, integrating AI tools that make job searching, learning, and networking more efficient and personalized.
Job Searches and Applications
One of the standout features is the new conversational job search tool. Users can now search for jobs using conversational prompts, which makes the process more intuitive.
However, the availability of jobs still depends on real-world data.
For instance, finding high-paying journalism jobs in specific locations may still yield limited results regardless of the search method.
Once a job is found, LinkedIn’s AI can generate a cover letter or introduction letter and review the user’s résumé. This automated assistance simplifies the job application process, making it more accessible and less time-consuming for users.
Personalized Learning
LinkedIn continues to enhance its video-based learning platform, which has seen a significant uptick in traffic, particularly for AI-related courses.
Cohen noted a 160pc increase in traffic for AI courses, highlighting the growing interest in both technical and non-technical AI skills.
To further personalize learning experiences, LinkedIn is piloting “expert advice, powered by AI” for its Premium subscribers.
This feature leverages insights from renowned instructors like Alicia Reece, Anil Gupta, Dr. Gemma Leigh Roberts, and Lisa Gates.
AI-powered coaches will provide personalized responses to users, serving as a starting point for deeper learning. These coaches will also be available during LinkedIn Learning courses, offering tailored guidance.
Enhanced Search Functionality
The third major area of AI enhancement is search functionality. LinkedIn’s search has often been criticized for being cumbersome and outdated.
The new AI-powered search aims to provide a more conversational and intuitive search experience, moving away from traditional keyword-based methods.
This update promises to deliver more relevant and comprehensive results, significantly improving the user experience.
In addition to these user-focused features, LinkedIn is also expanding the availability of Recruiter 2024, adding new tools for marketers, and introducing enhanced, premium company pages specifically designed for small businesses.
