LinkedIn has become a breeding ground for AI-generated content, with over half of longer English-language posts on the platform likely being created using automated writing tools. The use of AI writing tools on LinkedIn was negligible until the beginning of 2023, when ChatGPT’s release sparked a 189% increase in likely AI-generated posts.
The Rise of AI-Generated Content on LinkedIn
LinkedIn has become a breeding ground for AI-generated content, with over half of longer English-language posts on the platform likely being created using automated writing tools.
A New Analysis Reveals the Extent of AI Use on LinkedIn
Originality AI, an AI detection startup, analyzed 8,795 public LinkedIn posts over 100 words long published from January 2018 to October 2024. The results show that the use of AI writing tools on LinkedIn was negligible until the beginning of 2023, when ChatGPT’s release sparked a 189% increase in likely AI-generated posts.
When asked about the issue, Adam Walkiewicz, LinkedIn’s head of “feed relevance,” stated that the platform does not track how many posts are written or edited with AI tools. However, he emphasized that LinkedIn has robust defenses in place to identify and prevent low-quality or duplicate content.
The Impact on Users and Content Creators
While some users have welcomed AI-generated content as a time-saving tool, others have expressed concerns about the devaluation of human writing. High-profile lawsuits have also been filed against companies using large language models without permission or compensation.
A Mixed Reaction from LinkedIn Users
Entrepreneur Zack Fosdyck reported mixed feedback on his use of automated tools, with some users appreciating the clarity and structure of AI-generated posts while others were skeptical or critical. Rakan Brahedni, a LinkedIn blogger, noted that people are often bothered by content that is blatantly AI-written but may not mind if it’s well-written.
As AI writing tools become increasingly popular, it remains to be seen how LinkedIn will continue to address the issue. One thing is certain: the platform has created an environment where artificiality is expected and valued.
A New Analysis Reveals the Extent of AI-Generated Content
Despite the rise of AI-generated content, LinkedIn emphasizes that its platform is designed for finding new job opportunities and staying connected with former coworkers. The company sees AI as a tool to help with reviewing drafts or overcoming writer’s block, but stresses that original thoughts and ideas shared by members are what matter.
The Impact on Influencers and Users
LinkedIn has developed its own network of influencers and is surprisingly popular among Gen Z users, including teenagers. Startups have capitalized on this trend by creating AI-powered tools to help users generate content, such as comment and post generators. However, some users rely more on general-purpose large language models to create their posts.
Concerns Over AI-Generated Content
High-profile lawsuits have alleged that training AI on people’s art and writing without permission is tantamount to theft. On LinkedIn, some users who have used AI tools have received mixed feedback, with some appreciating the clarity and structure of AI-generated content while others are skeptical or critical.
Quality Over Quantity: The Key to Acceptance
The success of AI-generated content on LinkedIn depends on its quality. If it’s a good read, people are less bothered by the fact that it was created using automated tools. As one user noted, “Personally, I think it all boils down to quality. If it’s a good read, I don’t think people are bothered much.”
