LinkedIn's Update on Link Previews: What You Need to Know

If you've noticed that organic link previews on LinkedIn have become significantly smaller and, like me, you're not a fan of this change, it's now official: this update is being rolled out across the board. LinkedIn has confirmed that this change, initially launched as a test, is here to stay and will eventually apply to all organic posts that include external links.

What’s Changing?

The new update significantly reduces the size of preview images in organic link posts. This makes the previews less engaging in-stream, as the smaller images don’t have the same click appeal as the larger display. According to LinkedIn, this change aims to “help members stay on LinkedIn” by making external links less prominent.

Impact on User Experience

Many users, including myself, don't see this as a positive change. The update intends to keep users engaged on LinkedIn rather than diverting their attention to external sites. However, this may reduce the effectiveness of posts that rely on eye-catching previews to drive engagement.

The Cost of Bigger Previews

Unfortunately, if you want larger images in your link previews, you’ll now have to pay for them through sponsored content. This monetisation strategy means that organic posts with external links will be less visually appealing unless you invest in promoting them.

Adapting Your Strategy

With LinkedIn pushing ahead with this update, it’s important to reassess your LinkedIn posting approach. Here are a few tips to consider:

• Optimise Your Content: Focus on creating high-quality content that engages users without relying on large preview images.
• Use Native Content: Share more native content, such as articles and updates directly on LinkedIn, to keep your audience engaged.
• Invest in Sponsored Posts: If visual appeal is crucial for your external links, consider allocating part of your budget to sponsored content.

Conclusion

While this update may be frustrating, adapting and finding new ways to engage your audience on LinkedIn is crucial. By understanding the changes and adjusting your strategy accordingly, you can continue to make the most of your LinkedIn presence.