Get ready for a game-changer! LinkedIn, the professional networking giant, is about to revolutionize its search feature with the power of AI.
For years, LinkedIn has been experimenting with AI integration across its platform, from ad creation to personalized content and hiring assistance. Now, they're bringing AI to one of the site's most popular features: search.
Earlier this year, LinkedIn introduced an AI-powered job search tool for US members, allowing them to use natural language queries. And now, they're taking it a step further by extending this technology to people search.
Imagine being able to ask LinkedIn for "investors in the healthcare sector with FDA experience" or "co-founders of a productivity company based in NYC." It's like having a personal assistant who can instantly connect you with the right people.
Previously, LinkedIn's search function was more complex. You had to guess the right keywords or navigate through a maze of filters to find what you needed. But with AI, the process becomes faster and more intuitive.
"The new AI-powered people search is designed to be the fastest path to the person who can help you the most," says Rohan Rajiv, senior director of product management at LinkedIn.
During early testing, LinkedIn observed users leveraging this feature to find connections for their next career move, expand their business, or boost their professional prospects.
Search is a hot topic in the tech world right now, with all major internet platforms racing to incorporate AI. As users turn to chatbots like ChatGPT and Perplexity for answers, search engines like Google, Bing, Brave, and DuckDuckGo are adding AI-powered responses. And it's not just the big players; startups are also developing AI-powered people search tools.
Reddit, for example, has invested heavily in AI-powered search and has locked down its platform's data, requiring other companies to sign licensing agreements for AI training and usage.
LinkedIn, a popular demo site for AI agents, browsers, and assistants, is taking a different approach. Owned by Microsoft, the company hasn't restricted its data yet, but they're aware of the need for a sturdy policy around browsers.
"I think we're still in the early stages of this browser age and how they work on behalf of people. Over time, we'll develop a more robust policy," Rajiv explains.
LinkedIn is rolling out AI-powered people search to premium users in the US, with plans to expand globally in the coming months. Instead of the usual "Search" bar, these users will see "I'm looking for..."
While the search isn't perfect, it's a significant step forward. The company is continuously working on improving the tool's understanding of queries.
What do you think about LinkedIn's new AI-powered search? Is this a game-changer for professional networking, or do you have concerns about its implementation? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
