Key facts
- Job seekers are sharing GoFundMe links on LinkedIn due to financial hardship.
- Many users frame the decision to crowdfund on LinkedIn as awkward but necessary.
- About half of the posts are from people raising money after layoffs or extended job searches.
- The hiring rate has fallen, with over a quarter of unemployed Americans looking for work for 27 weeks or more.
- Sharing fundraisers on LinkedIn carries risks of stigma, scams, and unwanted scrutiny.
In response to prolonged job searches and financial emergencies, some individuals are sharing GoFundMe campaigns on LinkedIn, a platform traditionally used for professional networking. This trend highlights a shift in online norms, with workers becoming more open about career struggles and seeking mutual aid. Business Insider reviewed 50 LinkedIn posts from the past year featuring GoFundMe links, revealing common themes of extended unemployment, mounting bills, and unexpected expenses. Many users expressed discomfort but felt compelled to ask for help due to necessity. The challenging job market, with a falling hiring rate and a significant portion of unemployed individuals seeking work for extended periods, contributes to this phenomenon. Experts suggest that the "open to work" banners introduced by LinkedIn and a general increase in online vulnerability have normalized such candid posts. While sharing fundraisers can be effective, it also carries risks of stigma and scams. Some individuals have reported suspicious interactions after posting their campaigns. The platform's user base, largely composed of white-collar workers, may also contribute to the trend, as this demographic has been disproportionately affected by the recent hiring slowdown. Despite the potential downsides, many job seekers do not regret sharing their fundraisers online.