LinkedIn CEO Ryan Roslansky revealed that the platform’s AI-powered writing assistant for post creation has seen lower adoption rates than anticipated, as users fear the professional consequences of using machine-generated content.
The High Stakes of Professional Posting
Despite the broader surge in AI adoption across the tech landscape, Roslansky admitted to Bloomberg that the tool designed to polish user posts has not gained the expected traction. He attributes this hesitation to the unique nature of the platform: for most users, LinkedIn functions as a living, digital resume.
The risk of appearing inauthentic is a significant deterrent. Roslansky emphasized that the “barrier is much higher” for content shared on LinkedIn compared to other social networks because the professional stakes are personal.
Avoiding the “AI Backlash”
The potential for reputational damage is a primary concern for the platform’s user base. According to the CEO, getting called out for AI-generated content on platforms like X or TikTok carries a different weight than on LinkedIn.
“When you’re getting called out on LinkedIn, it really impacts your ability to create economic opportunity for yourself,” Roslansky noted. This fear of being perceived as unoriginal or “robotic” in a professional setting appears to be curbing the enthusiasm for AI writing assistance.
AI Skills Demand Surges Despite Writing Hesitancy
While the AI writing assistant may be underperforming, interest in AI as a professional skill is exploding. Roslansky highlighted that the platform has recorded a 6x increase in job postings requiring AI-related expertise over the past year. Simultaneously, the number of users adding AI skills to their profiles has surged 20x.
Even within the executive suite, the technology remains a staple. Roslansky shared that he personally utilizes AI when communicating with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella: “Every time, before I send him an email, I hit the Copilot button to make sure that I sound Satya-smart.”
