I read today via Conference News that LinkedIn are shutting down its Events application.
I must say I’m baffled by this decision. I’m a big fan of LinkedIn, it basically works. It’s a vital tool for our business and helps us keep in touch with clients and partners. I’ve also used its Events section in the past for conferences we have run to promote Meetingsbooker.com. Again, it works. The Events section is a very useful tool for event planners to promote and communicate information about their events.
So why are Linkedin removing this tool? Any ideas? Lets try to address possible reasons.
1) Poor functionality
This is not true. Their Events section is simple but it works extremely well and covers all the basics of showing event location, speakers, attendees, duration, and topics.
2) It’s not popular
This could be the main reason. Perhaps only a small percentage of LinkedIn users actually interact with the Events section. One possible reason for this is that its tucked away under the “More” option on the navigation. But I’m guessing this is the main reason.
3) Strategic
LinkedIn obviously feels Events are not part of their strategy. I don’t buy this reason. The whole objective of LinkedIn is to keep you connected with fellow professionals. Events are the number one offline means of doing exactly this, so surely having a strong relationship with them can only help LinkedIn achieve its goals.
What do you think? Email sarah@mashmedia.net
