I don’t know anyone that likes Facebook. Yet we all have it. Facebook has done an outstanding job of making us use something that we loathe, and use it often. They’ve done this in ways no one saw coming, by expanding into areas outside of “feeds” and “posts.” The social aspect of Facebook is still very present. But the ways we interact are changing.

I can’t remember the last time that I posted something on Facebook for people on my feed to see. Instead, Facebook’s Marketplace, Groups, Pages and (most importantly) Messenger has made the social media network the go-to place, whether you use what it was originally intended for, or not.

Another (possibly) unintended consequence of Facebook’s expansion? It has made Linkedin completely unnecessary. This is what I’ve experienced, in my broadcasting industry. Your industry may vary, however I don’t think my business would suffer a bit if I completely deleted LinkedIn tomorrow. Facebook? I don’t think I’d survive without it.

LinkedIn, like Facebook is seen as an older-generation’s social media. LinkedIn’s sole purpose is for professionals to connect. LinkedIn has job postings, businesses to follow, and connections to be made. I use LinkedIn to connect with old co-workers and I try to find as many other sports broadcasters as I can. I follow some businesses, a few alma maters, and occasionally have a chat or two. But more and more I’m finding that my business needs are met on Facebook.

Facebook Messenger is My Go-To Contact Method

Facebook Messenger has replaced not only LinkedIn, but email as my top choice for reaching out to new clients. I have found at least a 75% higher success rate sending messages to possible clients on Facebook Messenger than I ever did through email. Over the years I can’t tell you how many possible clients have missed an email because of it being sent to a spam folder. While Facebook Messenger does send new messages to “message requests” if you aren’t connected with someone, you can message any page you want and it will go directly to their inbox. On LinkedIn I have found little luck messaging possible new clients. Since people aren’t as active on LinkedIn I’ve also found the waiting period can inhibit progress.

Facebook Groups > LinkedIn Groups

Facebook Groups have been another welcome professional tool. Facebook Groups offer a wide-array of needs. You can even set up a group to manage a family vacation. But for me Facebook Groups have far out-done LinkedIn Groups in making connections with fellow sports broadcasters. Right now there is a Facebook Group of play-by-play people that numbers in the thousands. On LinkedIn most broadcasting groups are dormant and it can take weeks before updates happen. On Facebook updates are daily, with others sharing stories of games they’ve called, equipment they’ve used, or other helpful information. 

Facebook Helps Me Seamlessly Market My Services

Time is money for busy professionals. I need to get the most out of the time I spend trying to find clients or it hurts my growth. The bad news for LinkedIn is it’s sole purpose of helping professionals expand their network is being undercut by Facebook. Facebook is doing a better job of helping professionals like me find new work and it’s where I’ve been spending 90% of my time. That can’t be a good sign for the future of LinkedIn, especially if others are experiencing similar success on Facebook. LinkedIn used to tout its strong lead-generation numbers. However as more people become comfortable with Facebook Messenger it will be interesting to see how those numbers can continue to favor LinkedIn. 

What do you think about this comparison? Connect with me on either Facebook or LinkedIn and share your thoughts!