The features that LinkedIn has built are much as you’d expect: search for events using a variety of filters, indicate that you plan on attending, and see who else is going to so you can do some pre and post event networking using the site. There are some other interesting LinkedIn-specific features, like integration with LinkedIn’s version of the News Feed so activities are broadcast, as well as event recommendations based on your profile information.
I’m a bit surprised it took so long for LinkedIn to add a feature that seems like it will be a slam dunk with its audience. As opposed to sites like Facebook – which has a very popular events feature – and Eventbrite, which has built a tool for managing event registration – LinkedIn is explicitly all about professional networking, which, is also a big part of the role that most industry conferences and tradeshows serve. LinkedIn Events makes the site a must-have compliment to your event schedule – and one that should help you in getting the most out of them, at least when it comes to networking.
Editor's Note: LinkedIn Events doesn't seem to be working at the moment, but you can check out some of the features in the demo below: