LinkedIn?

Why I am not on LinkedIn

In today’s digital age, many value online presence; however, I’ve chosen not to have a LinkedIn profile. This isn’t because I forgot or dislike technology. It’s a specific choice based on concerns about the platform and its approach to privacy.

From the outside looking in, LinkedIn appears to be a theater of performative professionalism. The tales of embellished accomplishments, inflated job titles, and the incessant need to broadcast every minor professional milestone reek of superficiality. The platform, which was once hailed as a haven for genuine networking, now seems to be more about curating a picture-perfect narrative rather than showcasing genuine career journeys.

The emphasis on quantity over quality is glaringly evident. The race isn’t about forging meaningful connections but about amassing a high connection count. This inflation of connections, where numbers often overshadow genuine relationships, diminishes the true essence of networking.

The content landscape of LinkedIn, from my observations, is awash with motivational quotes, success anecdotes, and viral stories that often lack depth. Instead of being a repository of valuable industry insights, it’s become a battleground for virality. The genuine value, in terms of knowledge exchange and professional growth, seems to be buried beneath layers of clickbait and self-promotion.

Beyond the veneer of professional networking, there’s a more sinister aspect to LinkedIn—just like every other social media platform: the erosion of privacy. Every interaction on the platform, be it a like, share, or connection request, feeds into a vast data machine. This isn’t just about tracking professional milestones. It’s about monitoring habits, preferences, and networks. In a world where data is the new gold, platforms like LinkedIn can be seen as surveillance tools, constantly gathering insights about its users.

Furthermore, the platform’s omnipresence creates a subtle yet persistent pressure to self-censor. With the knowledge that potential employers, colleagues, or competitors are always watching, there’s an unspoken compulsion to conform, to hold back controversial opinions, or to sidestep discussions that might be deemed “risky.”

Ultimately—for me—genuine professional growth is rooted in authenticity, meaningful interactions, and the freedom to express without the looming shadow of surveillance. I’ve opted to stay away from the superficial allure and potential spyware nature of such platforms.