LinkedIn Ticketed Events: New Paid Feature Test

LinkedIn Tests Paid Events Feature

LinkedIn recently announced new initiatives to encourage creators and boost original content on its platform. However, this isn't the sole area of development for the professional networking site.

Exploring Paid Event Hosting

TechCrunch has confirmed, through sources, that LinkedIn is currently testing a paid events functionality. This involves the potential sale of tickets directly through the platform.

Event organizers participating in the test will have access to a dedicated dashboard. This dashboard will provide insights into ticket sales, revenue generated, and event management tools.

LinkedIn's Statement on the Test

According to Nicole Leverich, a LinkedIn spokesperson, “LinkedIn Events has experienced significant growth, with 21 million attendees in 2020, reflecting the changing work landscape and the rise of remote work.”

Leverich further stated that LinkedIn is continuously evaluating member feedback and exploring new ways to enhance the event experience. The exploration of payment options within the Events product is a direct result of organizer feedback.

Broader Plans for Video and Audio Services

This paid events test is reportedly part of a larger strategic overhaul concerning LinkedIn’s video and audio services. These enhancements are expected to be rolled out over the coming weeks and months.

In June, LinkedIn invested in Hopin, a virtual event platform valued at $7.75 billion as of its August funding round. The extent of Hopin’s involvement in this new initiative remains unclear.

Evolution of LinkedIn Events

LinkedIn has been involved with events for several years, initially launching its Events hub in 2019. This early iteration focused primarily on in-person gatherings.

As the COVID-19 pandemic emerged, LinkedIn adapted its Events feature to accommodate virtual events. This included the introduction of online polls and video events to foster virtual engagement.

A Natural Extension for LinkedIn

Given its position as a professional networking platform, LinkedIn already maintains a strong connection to events. These range from large industry conferences to smaller, more focused gatherings.

The platform is frequently used for event attendee registration, content sharing, and post-event networking. Therefore, it is logical for LinkedIn to consider a more active role in event hosting and potentially monetize this service.

Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Additional reporting by Sarah Perez.