Since 40% of LinkedIn members use their mobile devices to access popular social media, LinkedIn (LNKD) has decided to step-up its application game to a whole new level. LinkedIn has released a new application, called Connected, which aims to bolster its already impressive networking infrastructure. This new application is an update from LinkedIn’s earlier networking app, Contacts.
Connected alerts LinkedIn users in advance about work anniversaries, promotions, and job changes within their network. The notifications arrive as “cards” that can be easily read and “liked,” which allows users to bolster their LinkedIn presence. In addition to these features, Connected also has an option for members to sync their phone’s information to the application so they have easy access to business contacts.
Arguably the most notable improvement to Connected is that it anticipates and alerts users about important information. For example, the application can predict and alert users about future job openings, or promotions, of interest prior to such information appearing on their LinkedIn feed.
While vastly increasing the UI of Connected, LinkedIn also increased the complexity and effectiveness of its search tool. As more users explore the Connected application, their information will be extracted and used, by LinkedIn, to update the desktop site.
LinkedIn has reported that its “likes,” comments, and “congratulations” have all increased since its release of the new application. Not surprisingly, Connected has also increased LinkedIn’s mobile traffic from 8% of unique visitors, three years ago, to 43% at present.
This new application is yet another reason why every young professional should be on LinkedIn.