October 5, 2017
Over the last few years I have read numerous articles and statuses from women who have been ‘flirted’ with when using LinkedIn, a website that’s sole purpose is for professional use only. So, to see that Bumble, synonymous with dating, is now launching Bumble Bizz – the lines between dating and professional networking are becoming blurred.
So how does Bumble Bizz work? Users can upload photos of their work and give an outline of their professional background, and just like the dating element of the app, users swipe until they want to make a connection. It’s then up to the woman to make first contact.
Founder, Whitney Wolfe has maintained that the rolling update to the Bumble app is not to challenge LinkedIn, but states that the two have fundamentally different objectives. Whilst LinkedIn is traditionally used to find jobs and connect employees with potential employers, as well as with past work colleagues, Bumble Bizz is intended to help women network with industry leaders and brands in the moment, and to try and find mentors in a more casual setting. Using geo-based targeting, women can swipe to find professional contacts right here, right now (you only have a 24-hour window to start a conversation).
With equality between the sexes constantly being questioned in the workplace, a networking app with feminism at its core could be just the ticket for women who have been approached in a “professional capacity” with the intentions of something a little less professional.
“Levelling the playing field for women in the professional world is something we’re naturally all about.” – Whitney Wolfe
In just one app we can now meet the love of our life, find a new BBF and find our dream employer. Here’s to finding business connections (without benefits) 😉