Social media has always had its quirks, but what’s happening on LinkedIn is raising eyebrows. A new report reveals what many users have suspected: more than half of the posts on this professional networking site are generated by artificial intelligence (AI). Yes, you read it right—54% of posts longer than 100 words on LinkedIn are likely not the product of human thought, but rather the result of AI generators.
This finding, shared by the AI detection company Originality AI, sheds light on the shifting dynamics of content creation within the platform. Originally, AI-generated content on LinkedIn was minimal. Then came 2023, and everything changed when ChatGPT hit the scene. According to Originality’s CEO Jon Gillham, the launch of this widely-talked-about tool resulted in a staggering 189% increase in suspected AI posts during the months following its debut.
Linkedin has made strides toward integrating AI features for its users. For example, LinkedPremium subscribers can access specific writing tools. These tools serve to alleviate writer's block or help shape posts. Despite this advancement, Linkedinos' officials maintain they do not actively track the level of AI use on their platform. Adam Walkiewicz, Linked’s head of feed relevance, notes, “We see AI as a tool; it can help with the review of drafts or to beat the blank page problem.”
If you take some time to scroll through Linked posts, you might encounter formulaic patterns. From boilerplate motivational quotes to tired business jargon, the content often feels overly polished yet devoid of true insight. Rather than bad-mouthing these AI features, some users have embraced the accessibility they offer. Content writer Adetayo Sogbesan, for example, uses AI like Anthropic’s Claude to draft engaging posts for tech clients. This trend raises questions about authenticity. Are these posts genuinely representative of the professionals behind them, or merely the voices of algorithms?
While the convenience of AI-generated content is undeniable, it’s stirring up some mixed feelings. Zack Fosdyck, an entrepreneur, recounts receiving positive feedback on the clarity and structure of his AI-assisted posts, but he also faced skepticism from some users who were more focused on the method than the message. "Some people engaged positively, appreciating the clarity and structure of the posts. Others were skeptical or criticized the use of AI," he reflects.
What’s intriguing is how this affects the perception of thought leadership on the platform. With half of the posts being AI-generated, one has to wonder: when these self-proclaimed thought leaders share their insights, how many are truly theirs? Originality.ai’s examination of 8,795 posts, spanning from January 2018 to October 2024, indicates this trend highlights potential deception on the part of much of Linked’s professional network.
The relationship between AI tools and Linked persists, yet not all posts are entirely generated by AI. Many users provide at least initial prompts for their AI-powered content, demonstrating some level of human involvement. "Original ideas from our users are what matters," insists Walkiewicz, emphasizing the desire for authentic voices on Linked.
Yet how does this impact the world of recruitment and business networking? It creates what could be described as a parallel universe of thought leadership—an echo chamber filled with perfect-sounding phrases yet lacking true substance or diverse thought. AI has made it easier to sound impressive without necessarily bringing anything original to the table.
Should we be worried? Linked has reassured users and governmental bodies alike, claiming the platform isn’t considered harmful for children and is rather mundane for minors. Their justification for this stance rests on the assertion of being exclusively professional; kids should find it less appealing than platforms focused on entertainment or social sharing.
This situation reveals the tension between convenience and authenticity on Linked. While some users leverage AI to create polished posts and generate engagement swiftly, others are cautious about maintaining their unique voice. The growth of AI-generated posts raises challenges for Linked as it strives to maintain its reputation as the go-to platform for professional networking.
Check conversations surrounding AI-generated content on Linked, and you might stumble upon concerns from Linked users about the diluted nature of online engagement. More than half of what one sees could be AI, but does it mean the conversation is less valuable? It’s worth pondering.
Advancements like Linked’s AI writing support empower users to churn out more content; yet therein lies the risk of inundation with repetitive and uninspired posts. The increase of AI tools promises to slash the time spent on creation, but it can also lead to homogeneous discussions lacking genuine connection or variety.
Despite the surge of AI-generated content, some users strive to remain authentic. Young professionals and experienced executives alike seek ways to triumph—and they seek opportunities to connect with their audience through true experiences rather than pre-packaged insights churned out by AI.
For those trying to navigate the murky waters of Linked’s AI content, it’s prudent to stay vigilant and prioritize quality over quantity. By maintaining relatable content and genuine interactions, they sidestep the pitfalls of appearing to conform to yet another internet trend.
Peering at the broader picture, one wonders what Linked will look like down the line. Will authenticity prevail as the leader of the pack, or will AI continue to shape the future discourse of professional networking? This question hangs tantalizingly over the platform as users experiment with, embrace, or challenge the role of AI-generated content within their professional lives. Linked is catching the winds of change; it’s now up to its users to steer their narratives toward impact and connection.
