The new LinkedIn: A layout overhaul you can be happy about
A couple of weeks ago when Facebook finished rolling out Timeline we blogged about the inevitable and typically loathed platform overhauls that get thrown at us every once in a while. Thankfully, the recent layout changes that LinkedIn has undertaken haven’t been met with the same animosity.
When redesigning an interface, it’s important that users feel that the new interface is cleaner and easier to use than the previous. Of course, it takes time to adjust to a new layout, but if it takes longer than a handful of uses, people will be less likely to embrace the change. This is a problem that Facebook is currently facing with many users feeling like Timeline is disorganized and cluttered. LinkedIn has made over their interface in a way that streamlines the page, giving off a more modern and sleek look.
The use of a darker and more neutral colour scheme has made the site look much more polished while still sticking to its brand colour blue for accents. These subtle changes have made the platform more inviting without confusing or alienating regular users.
Aesthetics aside, LinkedIn has also made some changes that make the site more useful to its users. The “LinkedIn Today” digest is more prominently placed at the very top of the homepage. You’ll see 3 new stories that have been recommended for you specifically, based on your industry and indicated interests. Clicking on “LinkedIn” today will take you to a larger compilation of relevant stories where you can really delve into what is trending in your industry and what people are saying about it.
You’ll also see more updates from your network and companies you follow, directly underneath the news section. You’ll be the first to know when one of your contacts starts a new role—a great time to engage. Use the drop down menu to filter this stream and drill down into something specific. For example, if you want to see the content that people have been sharing this week, choose “Shares”. If you want ideas for a great new group to join, filter by “Groups”.
And last but certainly not least, surely LinkedIn knew they couldn’t implement a layout overhaul in 2012 and not improve the use of images. With the shift towards more visually-oriented designs, LinkedIn has made embedded images in posts larger. Capture your network’s attention by drawing the eye towards image, if possible and relevant, in your updates.
To stay updated on the newest changes, read our post about the new company pages here.
