In a move to enhance meaningful engagement and reduce algorithm fatigue, LinkedIn is testing a “1st-Degree Connections Feed” — a new feature designed to show users only the content shared by people they’re directly connected to. This marks a significant step away from the broader content discovery model that includes posts from 2nd or 3rd-degree connections or algorithm-suggested content.
The test, currently rolling out to select users globally, is LinkedIn’s response to growing user demand for more control over what appears in their feeds, especially for those who use the platform primarily for professional networking and direct relationship-building.
What Is the 1st-Degree Connections Feed?
The new feed filter allows users to toggle their main feed to display only content from people they have accepted connections with—no more random viral posts, suggested follows, or distant network updates.
This change empowers users to prioritize professional relevance and remove clutter, enabling them to keep up with colleagues, clients, mentors, or prospects more effectively.
Why LinkedIn Is Making the Change
LinkedIn’s core value proposition has always revolved around professional connection and knowledge sharing. However, in recent years, the main feed has increasingly resembled a general social platform, filled with trending videos, motivational posts, and viral content from strangers.
According to LinkedIn’s product team, the feedback was clear: while discovery has its place, users want to engage more deeply with the people they know and trust. By providing a dedicated feed that filters out non-1st-degree content, LinkedIn hopes to boost the quality of user interactions.
Tomer Cohen, LinkedIn’s Chief Product Officer, stated in a LinkedIn post:
“We’re testing new feed filters to give users more control. The ‘My Network’ feed shows only posts from your 1st-degree connections. We’re hoping this enhances relevance and reduces noise.”
How It Works
Users in the test group will now see a feed toggle at the top of their homepage, offering options like:
- Home Feed (Default): Includes 1st, 2nd, and 3rd-degree connections, company pages, and recommended content.
- My Network Feed: Displays only content from 1st-degree connections.
- Following Feed: Shows updates from followed people and pages, in chronological order.
The My Network Feed eliminates most algorithmic interference and focuses on direct posts, reshared content, or article activity from people in your accepted connections list.
What This Means for Professionals and Brands
This update could shift how users consume and post content on LinkedIn. For individual professionals, it enhances direct relationship management. You’re more likely to see updates from your team, clients, and industry peers without the noise of unrelated viral content.
For brands and marketers, the change emphasizes the importance of authentic employee advocacy and personalized outreach. Company pages may not appear in this feed unless followed or reshared by a connection, meaning businesses will need to rely on employee networks more strategically.
It also reintroduces the value of growing a high-quality network rather than mass-adding connections. Building meaningful 1st-degree relationships will be crucial for visibility.
User Reactions and Future Roadmap
Initial feedback on social media has been positive. Many professionals appreciate the reduced noise and improved relevance.
However, some marketers worry that the change may limit organic reach, especially for new entrants trying to gain visibility. LinkedIn has assured that this is just a test and is actively seeking user input before a global rollout.
If successful, the feature may become a standard feed toggle option—similar to Facebook’s “Favorites” or X’s (formerly Twitter) “Following” tab.
Stay Ahead with Digilogy
As platforms like LinkedIn shift toward relationship-first content, your brand must adapt by focusing on personalized B2B engagement and strategic employee advocacy.
At Digilogy, we help you craft powerful LinkedIn strategies—whether you’re nurturing leads, elevating employee voices, or expanding brand authority. Contact Digilogy today to refine your LinkedIn marketing with smart, data-driven tactics that align with emerging platform changes.
