LinkedIn is rolling out a new AI-powered people search feature, marking a major upgrade to its widely used platform. The feature is designed to simplify finding the right connections, particularly for job opportunities, business growth, or career development.
Previously, LinkedIn users had to rely on keyword searches and multiple filters to locate specific people. Now, the AI-powered search allows users to enter natural language queries, such as “Find investors in healthcare with FDA experience” or “People who co-founded a productivity company in NYC.”
Rohan Rajiv, LinkedIn’s senior director of product management, told TechCrunch, “With lexical search, you had to know the exact title or wrestle with filters. The new AI-powered search is the fastest path to the person who can help you the most.”
This move aligns with broader trends across the internet, where platforms like Google, Bing, and Reddit are integrating AI into search functionalities. LinkedIn aims to make its AI-powered search more intuitive and effective than traditional keyword-based searches, allowing users to quickly connect with relevant professionals.
In initial trials, LinkedIn observed that the feature helped users discover contacts for networking, mentorship, or hiring. Premium users in the U.S. will see “I’m looking for…” in the search bar, signaling the AI-assisted search functionality. The company plans to expand this feature to other regions in the coming months.
However, the AI search is not flawless. Results may vary depending on query phrasing. For example, searching “people who co-founded a YC startup” may yield different results than “Y Combinator,” and queries like “voice AI startup co-founders” could include LinkedIn Top Voice badge holders.
LinkedIn continues to refine the tool to better understand user queries and improve result accuracy. The new AI-powered search is part of LinkedIn’s ongoing efforts to integrate AI across its platform, including content creation, job hunting, hiring support, and learning tools.
By introducing AI-driven people search, LinkedIn aims to enhance networking and professional connections while staying competitive in the era of AI-enhanced internet platforms.
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