LinkedIn Becomes Unofficial Dating App as Singles Seek Alternatives

LinkedIn, the professional networking platform, is unexpectedly becoming a popular dating site, defying its own regulations against romantic connections. The site's detailed profiles and rich personal information make it an attractive tool for singles weary of the unpredictable nature of conventional dating apps.

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LinkedIn is a professional networking platform that is transforming into a de facto dating site despite rules prohibiting romance.

A survey by resume template platform Zety found that one in four employees find it acceptable to use LinkedIn for dating. Furthermore, 22% admitted to contacting someone or replying to a message with romantic intentions.

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One in four employees find it acceptable to use LinkedIn as a dating tool.

As frustration with dating apps grows, many are seeking alternatives beyond simple swiping. Some try speed dating, connect over shared interests, or even use spreadsheets to strategize their dating lives. However, using LinkedIn for dating violates its terms of service. A LinkedIn spokesperson stated the platform works to protect users from unwanted romantic advances. The site's notification feature for profile views also makes discreet browsing difficult, leading some to create temporary accounts to avoid revealing their identity.

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We are protecting people from unwanted romantic advances.

While this trend is gaining traction globally, South Korean social media users expressed similar sentiments, lamenting the high cost and poor matching rates of matchmaking services and the fatigue of repetitive blind dates. They also noted the difficulty of finding introductions through friends as they age. However, domestic job sites like Job Korea and Saramin face structural limitations in serving as dating platforms due to their focus on employer-to-job seeker matching rather than user-to-user communication. The demand for a "career-based networking environment" that facilitates natural private communication alongside professional profiles is emerging as a new challenge in the dating market.

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It's hard to view profiles secretly because the site notifies visitors.