In the last two weeks, LinkedIn has seen a 17% increase in registrations and a 14% increase in recommendations. The site now claims to reach 28 million business executives around the world, with every Fortune 500 and FTSE 100 company said to be represented.
Latest user figures also reveal that over the past seven weeks, members joining from the financial sector have doubled as the fallout from closures, mergers and government bailouts sweep through the sector.
A recent poll by the networking site, run in conjunction with news partner CNBC, confirmed that 42% of members feel their jobs are less secure in the current environment.
Respondents from chief executive and vice-president-level were found to be the most pessimistic, with 44.3% of members fearing the declining security of their jobs.
Although the figures highlight the negative personal impact of the current financial crisis, the increase in membership is good news for LinkedIn, especially after the launch of rival business social network Xing's publicity drive for UK members last week.
LinkedIn has more than 2,000 jobs posted each month and the ease of accessibility to professionals in every industry is believed to have been a key factor in the success of the networking site.
United Kingdom
Financial sector woes boost LinkedIn
LONDON - LinkedIn, the global networking website aimed at the business community, has reported soaring membership figures in the wake of a worsening economic climate and growing concern around job security and future career prospects.
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