Is LinkedIn ruining professional networking in India?

I can't help but feel that LinkedIn is indeed ruining professional networking here. I asked this question because I've seen a shift in how people connect and interact on the platform, and it's not always for the better.

First off, LinkedIn used to be a place where you could genuinely connect with like-minded professionals, share insights, and grow your network in a meaningful way. But now, it feels like it's become more of a social media platform than a professional one. The feed is cluttered with motivational quotes, personal stories that seem more suited for Facebook, and endless self-promotion. It's hard to find the special, valuable content that used to be the norm.

Another issue is the sheer volume of connection requests from people who have no real interest in building a professional relationship. It's all about numbers now, and the quality of connections has taken a backseat. I've lost count of how many times I've accepted a connection request only to be immediately bombarded with sales pitches or irrelevant messages. It's frustrating and makes me question the authenticity of the platform.

Moreover, the pressure to constantly update your profile, share achievements, and engage with posts can be overwhelming. It feels like a never-ending race to stay relevant, and it takes away from the genuine interactions that should be the core of professional networking. Instead of focusing on building real relationships, people are more concerned with how they appear online.

That said, I do acknowledge that LinkedIn still has its benefits. It's a great tool for job hunting, learning about industry trends, and even finding mentors. But the way it's being used by many people in India today is diluting its original purpose. The focus has shifted from meaningful connections to superficial engagements, and that's a real shame.

In conclusion, while LinkedIn has its advantages, I do believe it's ruining professional networking in India to some extent. The platform needs to find a balance between being a professional network and a social media site, and users need to remember the true purpose of networking: building genuine, valuable relationships.