The new format of the LinkedIn App appeals to me, for the most part, because they have improved the user experience. The old version had a lot of limitations, so it’s good to see these improvements.

Johor, Malaysia - May 11, 2014: Linkedin icon displayed on smartphone screen. Linkedin is a famous social networking website, May 11, 2014 in Johor, Malaysia.

What Are LinkedIn Experts Saying?

One of the things I like to do when something new comes out is watch a YouTube video about it by someone in the know. Fortunately, LinkedIn expert Viveka Van Rosen recently posted a new one on her YouTube channel. Having already watched it a couple of times, I have a better understanding of the functionality of this app.

Here are some things Viveka likes about the new app:

  1. Sharing is easier, including sharing photos and published posts.
  2. It’s easier to edit contact and summary information, as well as your skills section. Other items can’t be edited from the app.
  3. The new Network Tab allows you to not only view pending invites more easily (even what is written in the invite), but you can reply more easily too.
  4. Private messaging is easier. When you find someone you want to connect with, simply click on the three dots at the top right to send them a private message.

Here is the link to Viveka’s “quick tour” of the new LinkedIn app, from which I gathered these tidbits: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DsdRYnLMq30&feature=em-subs_digest-g

 

What Does LinkedIn Say?

Another good source of info about any changes related to LinkedIn is, of course, LinkedIn itself. I subscribe to the LinkedIn Blog, and have gleaned some useful information there.

They did a particularly nice job of defining the five sections of the app:

  • Your Feed (Home): updates and posts from your connections
  • Me: your professional brand
  • Network: a daily briefing of what’s happening with your connections
  • Messaging – easy to use way to send a private note to a connection
  • Search: find people, jobs, companies, etc.

One thing I especially appreciate is that within the Network Tab I can easily see all my connections, alphabetized by first name. Oddly, I am not able to access a complete list like this when I use LinkedIn on my computer.

Here is the link the LinkedIn Blog post from which I gleaned this information.

http://blog.linkedin.com/2015/12/01/our-new-linkedin-app-is-here-making-it-easier-than-ever-to-stay-in-touch-with-the-people-and-information-you-need-to-be-successful/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+typepad%2Flinkedinblog+%28LinkedIn+Blog%29

 

How About You?

Are you using the new version of the LinkedIn app? What are your thoughts? What things do you especially like about it? Is there anything you miss from the old version?

 

About Joyce

Joyce Feustel, Founder of Boomers' Social Media Tutor

Joyce Feustel helps people, especially those age 50 and up, to become more comfortable using social media, especially Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Twitter.

She works with business owners, business development professionals, leaders of nonprofit organizations, job seekers, retired people, consultants, and many others. Find her at www.boomerssocialmediatutor.com.