LinkedIn is shaking things up with the introduction of games! But hold on to your resumes – for now, at least, these brain teasers are completely free.

This move signals a clear shift in how LinkedIn approaches user engagement. Gone are the days of endless scrolling through job postings and professional accolades. Now, you can bond with colleagues and classmates over a friendly game, fostering a more relaxed and interactive atmosphere.

Building Bridges Through Brainteasers

LinkedIn’s product director, Lakshman Somasundaram, emphasizes the power of play in strengthening professional relationships. “It’s time we turn over a new leaf in how we deepen and reignite relationships at work,” he states, highlighting the platform’s goal to place “fun at the heart” of professional networking.

The games themselves are being spearheaded by LinkedIn’s News division, with Paolo Pasco, a recent addition as games editor, leading the charge. Pasco brings a wealth of experience, having previously conquered the American Values Club puzzle and even taking home the top prize at this year’s Annual American Crossword Puzzle Tournament.

The Power of Play: Lessons from the New York Times

This foray into gaming isn’t without precedent. The New York Times (NYT) saw tremendous success with its word game, Wordle, racking up over 8 billion plays in 2023. This success has fueled the Times’ growth strategy, with Jonathan Knight, the publisher’s head of games, revealing that users who engage with both news and games are more likely to stick around with a subscription.

The Future of Fun on LinkedIn?

Whether LinkedIn will follow suit with a subscription model for its games remains to be seen. For now, users can enjoy the camaraderie and mental stimulation offered by these free brain teasers. So, the next time you log in to LinkedIn, ditch the networking anxiety and challenge your connections to a friendly game! You might be surprised at how much fun you can have while building professional bridges.