LinkedIn CEO Reveals AI Writing Assistant Less Popular Due to Professional Risks

LinkedIn CEO Ryan Roslansky has revealed that the company's AI writing assistant, which provides suggestions for improving posts, has not been as well-received as anticipated. During an interview with Bloomberg, Roslansky acknowledged the slower adoption rate and provided some insights into why this might be the case. "One of the main reasons is that the barrier to posting on LinkedIn is much higher," Roslansky explained. "This platform is essentially an online resume, and users are more cautious about the content they share here." The potential for backlash is significant on LinkedIn, where posts can directly affect career prospects. "In contrast, if you get called out on TikTok or another platform, the consequences are generally less severe," he elaborated. "But when it happens on LinkedIn, it can substantially impact your ability to create economic opportunities." Despite the lukewarm reception of the AI writing assistant, LinkedIn has observed a substantial surge in demand for AI-related skills. Over the past year, the number of job postings requiring such skills has increased by six times, while the number of users adding AI competencies to their profiles has grown by 20 times. This disparity highlights both the growing importance of AI in the professional world and the selective nature of how people engage with AI tools on the platform. Roslansky also shared a personal anecdote about his own use of AI. He mentioned that he frequently relies on the Copilot feature before sending emails to his boss, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella. "Every time, I hit the Copilot button to make sure I sound 'Satya-smart,'" he said, illustrating the practical benefits of AI in enhancing communication within professional contexts. The CEO's comments underscore the nuanced relationship between AI and professional networking. While users may be hesitant to rely on AI for visible content, such as posts, they are increasingly valuing its assistance in more private and critical communications, like emails to important colleagues. This suggests that LinkedIn’s AI tools are finding their footing in areas where precision and professionalism are paramount.