Could LinkedIn become the MySpace of social networks?
Unless it integrates with sites like Facebook, LinkedIn may go the way of that other social network that’s collecting dust.
Would anyone be really upset if LinkedIn disappeared tomorrow?
It’s safe to assume that recruiters scouring the site for new talent and current shareholders would be peeved, even if the stock is trading at half price from the IPO. But how would the lack of an online destination affect everyday users?
Users who are tethered to their mobile phones and enamored by the promise of applications, innovation and integration?
Of the top 10 most trafficked social networking sites, LinkedIn is a bit of an anomaly. Its success is not dependent on status updates, games or rich media content, but on connecting individuals around professional interests and capabilities.
Even with 135 million registered users, LinkedIn has (not surprisingly) had difficulty keeping the attention of its user base. Members spend an average of only eight minutes per visit (source: Google DoubleClick Ad Planner).
Compare that with the new social media darling, Pinterest.com. Traffic to Pinterest has grown a whopping 40 percent in the last six months—and its 13 million users spend an average of 15 minutes and 40 seconds on the site—nearly double the time spent on LinkedIn.
Become a Ragan Insider member to read this article and all other archived content.
Sign up today
Already a member? Log in here.
Learn more about Ragan Insider.
