Oversharing on LinkedIn -aren't you sick of it already?

There has been growing concern over the issue of oversharing on professional networking platforms like LinkedIn. Mainstream media outlets, including The New York Times, Business Insider, and Wall Street Journal, have highlighted the emerging trend of users divulging personal details that were traditionally reserved for personal social media accounts.

This shift reflects the evolving dynamics of the broader social media landscape. While platforms like Facebook have become hubs for family-centric updates and nostalgia-driven community pages, Instagram caters to the visual narratives of millennial influencers, and Twitter is becoming a news platform for many. Meanwhile, LinkedIn remains a steadfast domain for career advancement and professional networking. In fact, the platform, now owned by Microsoft and in its 20th year, has witnessed exponential growth, with its member count reaching an impressive 950 million as of July, and showing signs of reaching the billion mark soon. Notably, user activity on LinkedIn has surged by 41% from 2021 to 2023.

The question arises: why this surge in oversharing, and why on LinkedIn? Perhaps it's a natural consequence of the platform's increasing prominence, with users feeling inclined to share personal experiences and anecdotes. Some individuals may consider LinkedIn a suitable platform to discuss topics such as divorce or personal struggles, which they deem more engaging than conventional work-related updates like work anniversaries.

Several factors may contribute to this phenomenon. The COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, compelled people to seek solace not only from friends and family but also from colleagues and supervisors grappling with similar challenges. Consequently, LinkedIn, initially conceived as a platform for professional resumes, has transitioned into a space where individuals find solace in sharing intimate aspects of their lives.

Moreover, there appears to be a generational shift at play. A 21-year-old entrepreneur, Catalina Valentino, captured attention after sharing her experience of walking barefoot in the snow for nearly a mile to a meeting at the World Economic Forum when her car got stuck. According to Valentino, this inclination to overshare is primarily characteristic of Generation Z.

However, oversharing on LinkedIn is not without its risks. Colleagues or connections might view personal content on a professional platform unfavorably, leading to potential backlashes and snide remarks. Instances abound of inappropriate content shared by professionals, with some social media accounts dedicated to highlighting such posts, often with a hint of sarcasm and humor.

For leaders, the act of oversharing can potentially undermine their authority and professional standing. While building a personal brand as a thought leader, one must exercise discretion when it comes to sharing personal details or expressing contentious opinions. Avoiding discussions on topics like politics, religion, or other sensitive subjects is advisable, as it can have an adverse impact on how one is perceived by the LinkedIn audience. Instead, if one chooses to share personal experiences, it is essential to do so in a manner that upholds professional dignity and control.

Ultimately, the fundamental rule for leaders on LinkedIn is akin to the age-old advice parents give to their children about responsible social media usage: think twice before sharing. Consider whether you are comfortable with the prospect of the entire world having access to your post, not just in the present but also in the foreseeable future.

If you still find the content relevant, then go ahead and share your thoughts. However, always maintain a sense of professionalism and prudence in your online interactions.