LinkedIn being used as a dating platform is nothing new.
However, recent trends have shown young generations are now more apt to use the site as a way to look for romantic partners rather than seek jobs.
Here are just some of the viable reasons why LinkedIn has become a popular social media for online flings and flirts:
Truthful Profile Info
LinkedIn profile pictures are often being joked online as being overly formal in comparison to the flirty images used for Tinder and Bumble profiles.
However, that can also be an advantage for people looking for genuine relationships. People are more apt to be more honest in their LinkedIn profiles than in dating apps.
That way sudden surprises during the first date night could be fewer than from profiles tailored for people to find them attractive.
Lower Commitment
Unlike dedicated dating apps, LinkedIn is not exactly built as a platform for dating, which ironically makes it perfect for casual flings before deciding to commit to a relationship.
The platform's algorithm does not push people to march according to preferences but rather through connections. It means there is little to no pressure to disconnect with someone at the risk of encountering them again later.
Less Fake Accounts
No social media is truly immune from bots and phishing accounts, however, there is a lesser risk to find accounts targeted for love seekers.
Scammers would probably be more intent on duping would-be applicants and buyers rather than those looking for romance, especially since the platform is not the formal avenue for that topic.
Even if a suspicious account is engaged under the pretense of dating, it can easily be verified by going to their profile info.
Rich Matches
If there is one draw LinkedIn has over other dating apps, it is the chance to find a match with wealthier people, a jackpot in the sense.
The platform is mostly used for businesses so it comes as no surprise that CEOs, presidents, and executives are more common here.
It might not seem a good example to follow in dating but people still do this even now due to various financial circumstances and needs.
Career-Oriented Dates
Career-oriented people are more likely to have a match on LinkedIn than other dating apps due to its nature.
The platform encourages people to build connections with other users, a good chance to get to know others and see their priorities.
There is a good chance to find people who put their career and work at the top for those who are actively engaging with other accounts.
And even if they do not fit the romantic criteria, that is still one more person added to the growing network of career connections.
Less Prone to Sexual Harassment
LinkedIn has actually responded to the issue of sexual harassment and unsolicited messages female users receive on the platform by implementing an AI dedicated to detecting such behaviors.
These policies provide many users a safe place to get to know others before deciding if they ever want to date them. People can be professional first before becoming close companions.
It also makes people double-take and consider their position before "taking the shot."
Blurring of Professional and Private Life
On the lesser good side of things, the presence of people actively seeking romantic partners on the platform raises questions about why the thing is happening in the first place.
One reason is people blurring the boundaries between professional and private life. We have seen this many times with workplace relationships and affairs, the same issue is happening on LinkedIn. Only now, it is online.
Social Disconnection
As mentioned earlier, younger generations have started using the platform for dating more than older users.
This can be traced to the social disconnection many young people have experienced after a long stay inside their houses during the pandemic.
The years 2020 to 2021 also recorded a traffic increase in dating apps. It would be no surprise to see people using the app to flirt as a different experience from the traditional mediums.
The only advice for people feeling this is to reach out to people physically and try to rebuild actual connections with trusted friends.
Love can come and go but genuine connections remain for a lifetime.
