Why does Linkedin say follow rather than connect?

LinkedIn uses the term "Follow" instead of "Connect" for various reasons:

1. Clarification of Relationship: By using "Follow," LinkedIn distinguishes between professional connections and interest-based followings. Connections represent individuals you know or have worked with, while followers are people who are interested in your content and updates.

2. Wider Reach and Engagement: "Follow" enables users to connect with professionals they may not know personally but are interested in following for industry knowledge, career insights, or company updates. This expands the potential audience for content and fosters broader engagement.

3. Privacy Control: The "Follow" option provides users with greater control over their privacy. When you connect with someone on LinkedIn, they can see your full profile and activity. Following allows you to access their updates and content while limiting their ability to see sensitive information.

4. Selective Interactions: Unlike connections, which are typically bidirectional, following is a one-way relationship. You can follow someone without them having to follow you back. This allows you to curate your feed with content that aligns with your interests without the need for reciprocal connections.

5. Content Discovery and Networking: The "Follow" feature facilitates content discovery and networking opportunities. By following professionals and companies, you can stay informed about industry trends, company news, and potential collaborations.

6. LinkedIn Algorithm: LinkedIn's algorithm prioritizes content from individuals and pages that you follow. This ensures that you see relevant updates in your feed and encourages users to follow accounts that align with their interests.

Overall, LinkedIn's use of "Follow" allows for more flexible and targeted connections, enabling users to expand their professional networks, access valuable insights, and tailor their LinkedIn experience to their specific interests.