LinkedIn is rolling out a new option which will enable freelancers and SMBs to list the services they provide on their LinkedIn profile, and be found for the same in search results.

As you can see in the first image above, the new option will enable users to add a section on their profile which showcases the various services they provide. LinkedIn has also added this as a search option, meaning that when people go seeking people who offer the same, they'll be able to filter their results based on this new section (you can see, in the middle screenshot, that the search list has been filtered by those offering 'accounting services').

The functionality is not available to all users as yet, but if you do have access, you'll be able to add a services listing from your profile page:

• Visit your profile page from your mobile app or desktop, and if this feature is turned on for you, you’ll see a box under your profile photo/headline that talks about how to showcase the services you provide. 
• Click “Add Services,” and then fill out the form to provide details about the services you provide. Be as detailed as possible so members who view this section have a good sense for what you provide. 
• Click “continue” and this will automatically be added to your profile.

It's another way in which LinkedIn users can utilize the platform to connect with business opportunities - and given the rising amount of freelancers, particularly in the US market, and where the trends are headed, it definitely makes a lot of sense. 

The freelance, or 'gig' economy, does come with additional economic considerations and challenges, but the fact is that, as connectivity improves, people's options are expanding, and that's leading to more of us working for ourselves.

LinkedIn's working to align with these trends - the new option was first spotted in testing back in April, along with a new post option which would enable users to request assistance from specific service providers. 

That function hasn't been released as yet, but the services listings on profiles is likely the first step, aligning with usage trends.

The new services listing option is first being rolled out to "small business leaders and freelancers who have a Premium Business subscription in the U.S." from this week. The functionality will be made available to all small business leaders and freelancers in the U.S. later in the year, with an expanded rollout to follow. People who are interested in gaining access to the feature can sign up to the waitlist.