When was LinkedIn Created? What Necessitated its Formation?

An image illustrating LinkedIn — When was LinkedIn Created?/PHOTO: Files

LinkedIn stands as the biggest professional and business-oriented network on the internet.

It offers a platform to discover suitable jobs or internships, build and enhance professional connections, and acquire the essential skills for career success.

One can access it through a desktop, the LinkedIn mobile app, or a mobile web experience. It provides versatile connectivity options.

Below we take a look at this professional platform’s history, when and why it was created.

Let’s dive right in!

Table of Contents

When was LinkedIn Created?

LinkedIn, the largest professional network on the internet was established in 2002.

Its co-founder Reid Hoffman created it in his living room and officially launched it on May 5, 2003.

Under the guidance of Ryan Roslansky, LinkedIn has evolved into a diversified business, generating revenues from membership subscriptions, advertising sales, and recruitment solutions.

Reid envisioned developing a platform designed specifically for professionals seeking to connect, network, and discover career opportunities.

when was linkedin created

Why was LinkedIn Created?

The creation of the platform had various driving forces behind it.

Below are some that stand out the most.

1. Recovery from Dot-Com Bubble Burst

Following the collapse of many internet-based companies during the dot-com bubble burst in the early 2000s, tech entrepreneurs and professionals, including Reid Hoffman and his co-founders, recognized the need for a platform to help individuals bounce back from the aftermath and rebuild their professional connections.

2. Building Trust in Professional Relationships

The creators of LinkedIn understood the importance of trust in the professional world.

They aimed to form a network where individuals could vouch for each other’s skills and credibility.

The founders introduced endorsements and recommendations.

These made possible the development of trustworthy professional relationships.

3. Simplifying Networking

In the era before LinkedIn, for networking professionals relied on:

in-person events
phone calls
emails

These had limitations such as geographical constraints.

LinkedIn solved these problems by making a website where professionals can easily connect, talk, and share career updates, making connecting simpler.

4. Efficient Job Search and Recruitment

Understanding the need for a simpler way for people looking for jobs and employers to come together, LinkedIn added features for job search and recruitment.

LinkedIn changed the job posting and application process.

This made it a crucial tool for millions of professionals worldwide seeking jobs and companies recruiting talent.

Conclusion

Founded in 2002, LinkedIn’s mission is to link professionals worldwide to enhance their productivity and success

People use LinkedIn to look for jobs, find internships, and make professional connections.

LinkedIn keeps working on new ideas and keeps giving more tools to help businesses reach their goals.