Get this: today’s generation has finally found an addition to Tinder or Bumble, and you won’t believe their runner-up on the dating apps list—LinkedIn.
Popular apps like Tinder or Bumble are popular dating apps in the Philippines that let people of the appropriate age meet and socialize with others by swiping right or choosing the ‘like’ option if you think that the person is someone you would enjoy talking to.
If two users swiped right upon encountering each other’s profiles on the dating apps, they would be notified that they are ‘matched’ and are encouraged to start a conversation, in which case there is a possibility users can meet personally (physically) if things work out.
READ: iPhone vs Android: Does it affect your online dating chances?
Now, LinkedIn, on the other hand, is also a popular site for meeting people but for business purposes or job-hunting objectives. According to a report by Business Insider, a Gen Z participant admits that she uses the professional platform to search for someone who has a stable job and is well-to-do.
We know what you probably think, but she adds that she is not looking for a “sugar daddy.” Rather, she wants someone who shows they are independent and can care for themselves. Further, she believed that LinkedIn would help her find a potential partner by checking out their job history, educational background, and career goals to personally assess whether these align with their vision for a significant other.
While this appears ingenious to most, especially today’s generation, LinkedIn as a potential ‘dating site’ is not that new. LinkedIn used with this goal came from the tradition of “dating hacks,” says Temple University’s sociology professor Dustin Kidd.
SEE ALSO: Filipinos still prioritize ‘visual appeal’ on online dating sites — study
He explains simply that platforms similar to LinkedIn have been used to ‘catch a date’ because they allow us to view details about a person’s educational and professional achievements and, most importantly, because of the Direct or Private Message feature. With this logic, we can assume that any social media platform can be turned into a dating site or application as long as people can view others’ photos and details and privately chat with them.
Over 1,000 women registered on LinkedIn were surveyed, and it revealed that 91% of the participants had received inappropriate messages. Communication consultant Caitlyn Begg theorizes that people have been craving genuine connections beyond the usual cheesy dating app introductions lately.
Meanwhile, people worldwide have used social media to express their thoughts. Mixed reactions range from those who found it funny and disgusting to calls to maintain LinkedIn’s professional purpose.
What are your personal thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.