Big changes are happening on LinkedIn! Video content is booming, with engagement skyrocketing and new features making it easier to create and connect. At the same time, LinkedIn is refining its “Top Voice” program, ensuring only the most active and insightful members keep their badges. And let’s not forget the expansion of the news banner, helping professionals stay updated on trending topics. Want all the details? Read on!
LinkedIn Expands News Banner Test to More Users
LinkedIn is broadening its experiment with a mobile news banner, designed to showcase top trending stories directly above the main feed. This feature aims to keep professionals informed while encouraging greater engagement with relevant discussions.
Source: SocialMediaToday
What is the LinkedIn News Banner?
Social media analyst Lindsey Gamble recently highlighted this feature, which presents a rotating selection of headlines summarizing the day’s most important news. According to LinkedIn:
“The LinkedIn News banner is an easy way for you to discover and stay current on timely professional news stories and perspectives. You can access the LinkedIn News banner at the top of your Feed on mobile. If you click on the story, you will see relevant articles and LinkedIn posts, including posts from top publishers and journalists, that our editors curated for that topic.”
This means the content is hand-picked by LinkedIn’s editorial team, ensuring that users see the most relevant updates in their industry.
More Users Gaining Access
Initially introduced in October as a limited test, the news banner is now being rolled out to additional users in the U.S., Canada, and India. While this might seem like an unusual selection of regions, India is LinkedIn’s fastest-growing market, making it a strategic choice for further expansion.
This move also aligns with shifts in the social media landscape. With X (formerly Twitter) experiencing fluctuations in its role as a primary news source, LinkedIn is positioning itself as an alternative for professional and industry-related news.
More Ways to Stay Informed
For those who prefer not to see the news banner, LinkedIn allows users to dismiss it by tapping the close icon, which removes it for 24 hours. However, for many professionals, this feature could serve as a valuable tool for staying on top of key conversations.
As LinkedIn continues refining this feature, we’ll keep an eye out for further updates on a broader rollout.
LinkedIn Updates ‘Top Voice’ Badge Rules for More Active Recognition
LinkedIn is making changes to its prestigious Top Voice program, ensuring that those awarded the blue badge remain active contributors on the platform. Unlike before, where the badge was held indefinitely, recipients will now need to maintain engagement to keep their recognition.
New Six-Month Badge Limit
Under the updated system, the Top Voice badge will now only be valid for six months, with LinkedIn conducting regular reviews to determine if members still meet the criteria. As LinkedIn explains:
“Top Voices are assessed twice per year. Once a member is invited to the Top Voices program, they will remain a Top Voice for at least six months, and are eligible for badge renewal as long as they continue to meet the core program requirements.”
To retain the badge, users must:
- Consistently create and engage with content.
- Share high-quality, original insights with an authentic voice.
- Offer valuable analysis and commentary on professional topics.
- Follow LinkedIn’s Professional Community Policies in their interactions.
How to Earn a ‘Top Voice’ Badge
Previously, LinkedIn introduced an alternative gold “Top Voice” badge for users who actively contributed to Collaborative Articles, AI-generated prompts designed to spark expert discussions. However, this system was scrapped after LinkedIn found that too many users were gaming the process to earn badges without real expertise.
Instead, the blue Top Voice badge remains the gold standard for thought leadership, with LinkedIn’s editorial team handpicking deserving members rather than relying on automation.
A More Selective Approach
This change brings the Top Voice program closer to traditional verification systems, where recognition isn’t given lightly. Instead of an easy-to-obtain badge, only consistent and high-quality contributors will be considered.
While this shift will improve the credibility of the program, it may frustrate some users who are eager for recognition. However, the message is clear – the only way to gain authority on LinkedIn is by consistently sharing valuable insights.
For those looking to stand out, engagement and expertise are key – and now, maintaining that status requires ongoing effort.
LinkedIn’s Video Boom: New Features to Help Creators Succeed
Video content is taking off on LinkedIn, with views up 36% year over year and video creation growing twice as fast as other post types. Professionals across industries are using video to share insights, grow their networks, and even reach millions of viewers.
To support this rapid growth, LinkedIn has introduced several new features designed to enhance video discovery, engagement, and creator success.
New Ways to Get Your Videos Seen
- Full-Screen Vertical Video – A swipeable viewing experience now available on both mobile and desktop.
- ‘Videos For You’ & Video Search Integration – Making it easier for users to find relevant videos in their feeds and search results.
Source: Lakshman Somasundaram
Boosting Engagement & Growth
- Profile Preview in Video Player – Viewers can check out your profile and past videos without leaving the player.
- Enhanced Follow Button – A more prominent option to help build your audience.
- Video Watch Time Metrics – Track how long viewers engage with your content to refine your strategy.
New Learning Resources for Video Creators
For those looking to improve their video skills, LinkedIn Learning now offers free nano-courses on topics like:
- Crafting compelling video hooks
- Editing and repurposing content
- Using LinkedIn Live Events effectively
With video becoming a dominant format on LinkedIn, now is the time to start creating. Whether you’re sharing industry insights or showcasing your expertise, these updates will help you reach more people, engage your audience, and grow your influence on the platform. The Linked Blog is here to help you or your brand have the best possible LinkedIn presence, so feel free to contact us if you need help! See more about what we can do for you here.
