This post is a classic demonstration of how eclectic my blog really is. I’ve gone from writing about outsider music, to a post-slash-rant on the downward spiral, as I see it, that the website LinkedIn is on.
LinkedIn is a great way to connect with professionals, colleagues and thought leaders. It provides a forum for discussion, through groups, on issues pertaining to your industry and professional interests. You can connect with old co-workers, research companies that you’re interested in working with and, to some extent, network with new people.
On the other hand, as I see it, Facebook is where you connect with your close friends and family. You share photos, make silly comments, send birthday wishes and all the other stuff that you can do comfortably with friends, but wouldn’t dare do in a professional setting.
The reason for this post, is the other day on LinkedIn, a connection had liked a photo. In this photo, was a boy holding a sign saying “I just beat cancer, can I get a million likes?” First: I’m not heartless. That’s great that cancer is being beaten, not just by him, but by thousands of people worldwide. But the photo stopped me in my tracks: why is a like-farming photo appearing on LinkedIn? That’s hardly appropriate!
I’ve noticed it sporadically on LinkedIn, but it continues to grow: photos being shared that are personal, or simply to get “likes.” To me, this is a downward spiral for LinkedIn. In my mind (and maybe I’m just not with the times), the photo sharing option on LinkedIn should be used for things like infographics, or for informational purposes. I don’t want to see photos of your new baby; that’s what Facebook is for!
Facebook is the personal space (but remember that on the internet, nothing is personal/private), whereas LinkedIn is just like your workplace: cordial, friendly but professional. I’ll always keep mine that way, and I hope to see more of my connections follow the same path.
