App Critiques 02 — LinkedIn Mobile
As one of the leading platforms for job hunting and professional networking, LinkedIn has introduced several growth features this year. Given the challenging job market, it raises the question of how LinkedIn can effectively respond to these conditions and provide meaningful value to job seekers. While the platform’s core usability remains clear and intuitive, some of the newer features, such as gaming elements and short video integrations, feel misaligned with user expectations and lack evident utility, potentially detracting from the platform’s primary purpose.
I’ll try to analyze the LinkedIn Mobile App through its original features and recent updates.
User flow as an “open to work” candidate
The search box is prominently positioned at the top of the screen, reflecting the app’s core value: enabling users to search for individuals to network with, job openings, posts, or companies for further insights.
When using the dropdown filters, users can refine their search by criteria such as posting date, location, and more, helping to narrow down the extensive results effectively.
However, selecting the “past 24 hours” filter occasionally surfaces job postings labeled as “promoted” that were created beyond the specified time frame, or jobs marked as “reposted 16 hours ago.” From what I understand, some “reposted” listings are automatically generated by the system and may already be filled, which could lead to confusion and inefficiency for users.
I subscribed to LinkedIn Premium, which provides access to advanced features. Personally, the most valuable tool in the current job market is the “See how you compare to other applicants” feature. Unlike the free plan, Premium also allows you to view the number of applicants for a specific job posting.
Another noteworthy aspect is the way Premium content, such as job insights, hiring trends, and headcount information, is visually differentiated. These features are marked under a yellow line and labeled “Premium,” creating a sense of exclusivity and emphasizing the added value of the subscription.
The beta feature “AI-powered job assessment” may be useful for candidates who are just beginning their careers but appears less essential for more experienced professionals. Basically, it summarizes the job description and compares it to your personal profile — information you likely already understand by reviewing the job requirements yourself. And this shouldn’t be shown above the “About the job” part.
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Personally, I love the LinkedIn design system; the layout of the card follows a clear hierarchy, and it effectively aligns with user priorities — placing the job title in the largest font at the forefront, followed by additional context like the company name or team, such as “Product Designer, Growth.” This approach ensures that the most critical information is easily scannable at a glance. The two call-to-action buttons, “Apply” and “Save,” are well-differentiated, adhering to LinkedIn’s design principles. The “Apply” button serves as the primary action, while the “Save” button provides a secondary yet equally valuable option. The “Save” feature is particularly user-centric, recognizing that many users browse job postings on mobile devices where applying directly may not be practical. By enabling users to save job posts for later action, LinkedIn reduces friction and ensures job seekers can seamlessly revisit opportunities when they have access to a desktop or additional application materials.
A minor point worth mentioning is the improvement in the accuracy of the displayed information. Previously, the number next to the posting date represented only the number of applicants. It has since been updated to “X people clicked apply,” reflecting the total number of users who interacted with the “Apply” button. This adjustment provides a more precise representation of user engagement with the job posting.
User flow as the networking/social media tool
In addition to its primary function of facilitating job applications, LinkedIn offers several other valuable features, such as expanding professional networks and staying updated on others’ career milestones. Unlike traditional social media platforms, LinkedIn will exhibit your activity — such as likes, comments, or reactions — on your connections’ homepages. This approach aligns closely with the core purpose of networking: exchanging information and fostering relationships.
Another feature I find particularly beneficial is the “People you can reach out to” section. This feature highlights connections like company and school alumni, offering an excellent resource for securing potential referrals in today’s competitive job market.
Other New Features
Some features on LinkedIn feel misaligned with the platform’s core purpose and can be confusing or underutilized. One example is the video feature, which is surprisingly placed on the second tab of the main menu bar — at the same hierarchy level as essential functions like “My Network” and “Jobs.” From a user perspective, this positioning feels disproportionate given the feature’s relevance. Personally, I have never found a reason to use this video feature. Clicking the tab displays algorithm-driven video suggestions based on perceived interests. However, the inclusion of short-form video content on a platform renowned for professionalism seems out of place, even if the videos originate from company officials or founders.
Another puzzling addition is the daily games feature. While I understand the intent may be to boost user engagement and retention, the absence of a rewarding system diminishes its appeal. Without tangible incentives, these simple games are unlikely to captivate users, especially on a platform focused on professional growth. Furthermore, it’s so weird that the placement is under the “My Network — Grow” section. Like how? Why?
In conclusion, LinkedIn should prioritize features that foster meaningful engagement to uphold its credibility and value as a professional platform. Its interface and design system are clear, well-organized, and thoughtfully structured. However, the platform doesn’t need to follow fleeting trends like gamification or AI craps that detract from its core purpose.
