Does LinkedIn video call work?

LinkedIn video calling allows you to conduct video conferences and meetings directly within the LinkedIn platform. This enables users to connect face-to-face without leaving LinkedIn. But does LinkedIn’s video call feature actually work well? Here is an overview of how LinkedIn video calling functions along with its capabilities and limitations.

How does LinkedIn video call work?

LinkedIn video calling utilizes WebRTC (Web Real-Time Communications) technology to enable browser-based video conferences. To use LinkedIn video calling, both parties in the call need to be logged into LinkedIn and have the video calling feature enabled. This is available on both desktop and mobile devices.

On desktop, you can start a video call from a LinkedIn message or post by clicking the video camera icon. On mobile, you can start a call from the LinkedIn messaging screen. When starting a call, you will see preview screens of your webcam and microphone to confirm setup. Your connection will then ring the other person and if they accept the call, the video conference will start.

During the call you can switch between grid view (showing all participants) and active speaker view. You can also share your screen to display a presentation or documents. There is a chat window available alongside the video conference for messaging participants.

LinkedIn uses end-to-end encryption for its video call streams for improved security. Calls also take place directly between participants for more reliable connectivity.

What are the requirements to use LinkedIn video calling?

To use the LinkedIn video calling feature, you need the following:

• A LinkedIn account
• The LinkedIn mobile app (for mobile calling)
• A webcam-equipped device
• A microphone
• A sufficiently fast internet connection

Both the caller and recipient in a LinkedIn video call must have access to the required hardware and have the calling feature enabled. You also need to be connected to each other on LinkedIn, either as connections or have access to message each other.

What are the capabilities and limitations?

Here is an overview of the key capabilities and limitations of LinkedIn’s video calling feature:

Capabilities

• Up to 100 participants per call
• HD video quality
• Screen sharing
• Chat messaging
• Active speaker view or grid view
• Desktop and mobile support
• Record meetings (coming soon)

Limitations

• Requires LinkedIn app on mobile
• Only works for 1:1 calls on mobile
• Call duration limited to 24 hrs
• No dial-in by phone option
• Limited call customization options

While LinkedIn video calling provides a straightforward video conferencing experience, it lacks some customization options compared to dedicated services like Zoom or Microsoft Teams. But its deep integration with LinkedIn’s other tools and contacts system can make it convenient for quick chats between connections.

What types of meetings and discussions can you have?

Here are some examples of meetings and discussions suited for LinkedIn video calling:

• One-on-one meetings with clients or colleagues
• Small team status updates
• Quick calls to discuss job opportunities
• Interviews with prospective employees
• Connecting with business contacts and networking
• Small virtual events or gatherings

For meetings under 100 participants, LinkedIn video call should provide a solid video meeting experience. The convenience of connecting directly over LinkedIn makes it well-suited for quick calls with your network. But for larger video conferences or calls that require more customization, a tool like Zoom may be better suited.

How does call quality compare to alternatives like Zoom?

In terms of call quality, LinkedIn video calling generally provides clear HD video and audio. However, there are some differences compared to platforms like Zoom:

Zoom has more options for customizing and optimizing the video call experience. This includes virtual backgrounds, lighting correction, noise cancellation, and breakout rooms. So while LinkedIn call quality is decent, services like Zoom generally provide a more robust and configurable platform.

How reliable is the connection quality?

The reliability of a LinkedIn video call depends on both the caller’s and recipient’s internet connections. LinkedIn uses WebRTC technology to establish direct peer-to-peer connections between participants. This avoids routing through intermediary servers and provides lower latency.

In optimal network conditions, LinkedIn video calls should be relatively stable. But if either party has an unstable internet connection, it can result in lag, pixelation, and dropped calls. Video calls consume much more bandwidth than browsing or streaming, so both participants will need sufficient upload and download speeds.

In general, internet speeds of at least 5 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload are recommended per participant for HD quality video calling. Overall, in favorable network conditions LinkedIn video calls can be fairly reliable. But factors like congested WiFi networks or poor cellular coverage can affect connection stability.

How does it compare for data privacy and security?

LinkedIn video calling uses end-to-end encryption, which is generally considered more secure than alternatives relying on servers. This ensures that only the participants have the keys to decrypt the call streams.

In addition, LinkedIn’s access to call data is limited since communication happens directly between end users. The company states they do not monitor or store the contents of video calls.

However, some metadata like call participants and timing information is collected by LinkedIn. And LinkedIn’s track record on privacy has faced scrutiny in the past. While its video calling security measures look decent on paper, some may still have concerns trusting LinkedIn with sensitive communications.

Platforms like Zoom offer robust encryption options and may instill more confidence for those requiring ironclad security. But for less sensitive conversations, LinkedIn video calls at least provide a baseline level of security.

What are some best practices for a good call experience?

Here are some tips to help ensure a smooth LinkedIn video call:

• Test your camera, microphone, speakers and internet connection in advance
• Close unnecessary apps and browser tabs to optimize bandwidth
• If on WiFi, position yourself close to the router/access point
• Minimize background noise around you
• Adjust lighting so your face is visible
• Use an external webcam and microphone for best quality
• Pause video if experiencing bandwidth constraints
• Connect power adapters to avoid battery drainage

Testing your setup and connections, closing other apps, and optimizing your physical environment will help maximize the chances of a glitch-free call. Following these video conferencing best practices can enhance your overall LinkedIn calling experience.

What are some use cases where LinkedIn video calls shine?

Here are some examples where LinkedIn video calling provides a particularly convenient or useful experience:

• One-on-one networking – Easily connect face-to-face with your wider network.
• Interviewing potential candidates – No need to schedule a separate conferencing tool.
• Quick status check-ins – Get visual feedback during project updates.
• Client consultations – Provide personalized service and visuals.
• Virtual office hours – Set availability windows and meet “in-person”.
• Campus recruiting events – Connect college students to potential employers.

Thanks to deep integration with your professional network, LinkedIn video call shines when you need the convenience of meeting over your existing connections and community. Reduced friction to start calls can facilitate more personal outreach.

What tips and tricks can improve the video call experience?

Here are some tips to take advantage of LinkedIn video calling features:

• Use screen sharing to display documents or slides
• Leverage the chat window to share links or notes
• Change view modes to focus on active speaker or see all participants
• Hover over a participant thumbnail and click the “…” menu to pin their video, mute them, or remove them from the call.
• Click the gear icon to access settings for microphone, speakers, camera, and bandwidth mode
• Mouse over your own thumbnail and click “…” to update your display name in the call

Taking the time to go through the menus and options can help you take full advantage of functionality. Mastering the available settings and controls will enhance your overall management and participation during a call.

Conclusion

LinkedIn video calling aims to provide straightforward video conferencing directly within your professional network. Its quality and capabilities may not match dedicated platforms like Zoom, but the integration and accessibility within LinkedIn can make it an easy way to connect visually with your contacts.

While best suited for smaller calls, it can enable productive video meetings provided participants have sufficient internet connectivity and preparation. Following best practices and utilizing tips and tricks can help optimize the experience further. Overall, turning on LinkedIn video calling is worth considering as a complementary option to maintain face-to-face relationships across your network.