LinkedIn Tests Short Video Feature: Here are the Details You Need to Know

LinkedIn is shaking things up with a new feature where it is testing a TikTok-like short video feed. This move comes because of the growing popularity of short-form video content across platforms and could change how professionals connect and share knowledge on LinkedIn.

The new feature, spotted by users and confirmed by LinkedIn, introduces a dedicated "Video" tab within the app.  Here, users can swipe through a stream of short, vertical videos focused on professional content. This caters to the evolving content consumption habits of users who increasingly favour quick, digestible information.

The focus on professional content differentiates LinkedIn from pure entertainment platforms like TikTok.  Videos might cover topics like career advice, industry insights, job search tips, or even behind-the-scenes glimpses into company culture.

The feature was noticed by TechCrunch and it states: “LinkedIn is testing a new TikTok-like short-form video feed, the company confirmed to TechCrunch on Wednesday. With this new test, LinkedIn joins numerous other popular apps that have launched their own short-form video feeds following TikTok’s rise in popularity, including Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat and Netflix.”

TechCrunch mentions that this feature was first spotted by Austin Null who is an influencer at an agency known as Mckinney. He showcased the feature on Twitter (X). 

🚨NEW 🚨 LinkedIn is testing a new short-form video experience, including a dedicated video ta, similiar to TikTok, Reels, Shorts, etc.

H/T to @AustinNull for the discovery/screen recording

Details here:https://t.co/HgGSUaJYvq pic.twitter.com/nDQ8otY0iW

— Lindsey Gamble (@LindseyGamble_) March 27, 2024

How to View LinkedIn’s Short Videos Feature?

LinkedIn is currently running a limited test of a dedicated space for short videos. If you're chosen for the test, you'll find a new "Videos" tab where the "My Network" tab usually is. This tab takes you to a full-screen feed of short videos, similar to what you might see on TikTok or Instagram Reels.

Lindsey Gamble mentions: “LinkedIn is doing a limited beta test of a dedicated short-form video experience on the iOS mobile app. Members with access will see a new video tab in the app's navigation bar, where the My Network tab used to be.” 

“Tapping on the tab directs users to a vertical, full-screen feed of short-form videos that they can scroll through. Similar to other short-form video experiences, users can comment like, comment on, and share a video, as well as view the full post caption via See More,” it adds.  

What are the Benefits of Short Videos on LinkedIn?

This new video feed could benefit both content creators and users:

• Reach a Targeted Audience: LinkedIn boasts a user base of professionals actively seeking career advancement, industry knowledge, and connections. This provides content creators with a highly targeted audience perfectly aligned with their niche.
• Establish Expertise: Creating informative and engaging videos allows professionals to showcase their knowledge and establish themselves as thought leaders in their respective fields. This can lead to increased brand awareness, potential business opportunities, or even job prospects.
• Monetisation Potential: While LinkedIn hasn't confirmed monetisation yet, the possibility of future revenue streams through advertising or sponsored content creation could be a significant motivator for creators to invest time and effort into high-quality video content. 
• Engaging Learning: Short-form video provides a dynamic and interactive way to learn new skills and stay updated on industry trends. Complex topics can be broken down into easily digestible chunks, making learning more efficient and enjoyable.
• Discover Diverse Expertise: The video feed exposes users to a wide range of professional voices and perspectives. They can learn from established industry leaders, discover up-and-coming talent, or connect with niche experts directly relevant to their career goals.
• Enhanced Networking: Short videos can be a springboard for professional connections. Users can discover potential collaborators, find mentors in their field, or even attract the attention of recruiters through informative and engaging video content.

The introduction of the video feed signifies LinkedIn's adaptation to the ever-changing content landscape.  Whether it becomes a game-changer or a niche feature remains to be seen.