LinkedIn Serve App
Military Networking Concept
CONTEXT & PROBLEM
The military (including Air Force, Army, Navy, and Marines branches) is one of the largest employers in the United States. There are over 1.3 million active-duty personnel and 800,000 reserve service members. However, there is no digital outlet for professional networking within the military. All networking must occur through informal channels of communication. This system has contributed to the recruiting crisis that currently plagues the services.
As for post-service, finding a civilian job affects nearly 200,000 veterans every year, according to the Pew Research center(CBS News). Many veterans struggle with the job search process, including creating a civilian resume and navigating online job boards and application processes. A U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation study from 2016 found that 53% of veterans are unemployed for four months or longer after leaving the military (CBS News). LinkedIn Global Impact has a dedicated page for military veterans, which is part of its broader initiative to support diversity, equity, and inclusion. The page provides resources and information to help military veterans transition from the military to civilian life and find meaningful employment opportunities. However, a more involved initiative could benefit both parties. Service members deserve their own virtual platform that allows them to market themselves within the military sector, connect with friends and mentors within the service, and easily transition their military experience to a civilian resume.
SOLUTION
LinkedIn should create a secure, separate platform for military users that highlights important parts of their career, allows for connection and self-advocacy within the service, and facilitates a smoother transition when veterans choose to separate with the service and enter the civilian workforce. A LinkedIn website and app tailored to the military community can be anticipated to be accomplished within a period of 1-2 years, characterized by key stages that encompass outlining requirements and features, construction, examination, promotion, and continuous maintenance. The app would enable LinkedIn to expand its user base and attract a new demographic of military members and their families. Additionally, it could position LinkedIn as a socially responsible company that cares about the welfare of military personnel and their families.
2023 | VCD 7: Interaction Design
