Can you think of a single social network that hasn't tried to be something more than just a place where friends can connect online? They merge, roll out new updates and modes, and generally do anything to get a hold of more audience and bigger revenue. While LinkedIn is getting more social to battle Facebook, the latter is pushing forward new professional networking features by introducing "Jobs on Facebook," and the list goes on.

It seems like there is about to be even more competition in the world of professional networking as Bumble, the female-friendly dating app, is rolling out their new mode: Bumble Bizz.

How Is Bumble Different From Other Dating Apps?

This is not the first time Bumble stood as another network's rival. The app started as a female-friendly alternative for Tinder, helping women get more control over online dating. When it comes to heterosexual matches, girls are the ones required to start a conversation. That way they could avoid getting bombarded with sexist and demeaning messages and finally find someone who's not "that guy" through a dating app.

Sounds like a good start? But the Bumble creators didn't stop there. Next up was the Bumble BFF mode that allowed their users to make real connections with the people of the same gender and "no strings attached". In Bumble BFF anyone can start a conversation, assuming your "friend-zoning" is both intentional and mutual.

And now the dating app is surprising its users with yet another upgrade: Bimble Bizz. Bizz is a new mode targetting those looking to advance their career. The focus is again on women, as Bumble is hoping this new mode will empower them and "help clear up the gray areas in networking that often make women feel uncomfortable."

What All the Bizz Is About

When you download Bumble, you can now switch between the different modes: Bumble (for dating), BFF (for finding friends), and Bizz. You can have three separate profiles and manage them according to your goals and interests on Bumble.

In order to create a profile on Bizz, you'll need to add some verified professional-looking photos, as well as your digital CV. You can also fill in a skills section and attach some examples of your work (in a form of a photo, text, or portfolio).

As mentioned before, the app is specifically designed to make networking easier. You don't need to be going through the meetings in rooms full of intimidating professionals in order to meet the right people. However, just like in the rest of the app, women still make "the first move." According to Bumble developers, they found that this system helps all users generally enjoy a more positive experience online.

No Better Time Than Now

Some are wondering why the new app mode is being launched now, and if the timing is random at all. Bizz was first announced in July 2017, and here is what Bumble CEO Whitney Wolfe told the press about it:

"Our users were already using our platform to network. So, we decided to introduce that curated section of the app to give them a distinct place to do this.

This isn't us introducing random new features. This is us listening to our users, and really inching toward our grand vision, which is to be the place for people to meet."

BumbleBizz vs. LinkedIn

"Professional networking" and "job searching" have now become trigger words -- a signal for people to start comparing things to LinkedIn. However, Bumble pretty much states that they've taken a completely different path with Bizz and won't be competing with the network (at least not this time).

According to Bumble, the app is designed for "networking and mentoring, not job searching or recruiting." And while both networking and mentoring are things that people seek joining LinkedIn as well, if you're in the market for a job ASAP, Bumble is probably not the best place to look.

At this point, it's difficult to tell whether Bizz will be anything of a real competitor for LinkedIn, or if it will join the list of those who tried and failed.

Things to Keep in Mind

Now that you know what it is and how it works, there are just a few more things you should know about Bumble Bizz.

1. It's Not Available Worldwide

At least not just yet. Bizz launches in the U.S., Canada, U.K., France, and Germany today. It will instantly connect you to people nearby who are looking to start networking or receive (or give) professional advice.

2. You Can Become a Part of Bumble

Bumble will actually be hiring employees itself through the app to prove its viability as a networking platform.

3. Mode Switching

Bizz comes out as a part of the original Bumble app. In order to access it, you'll need to switch modes within the app. It lets you manage three different profiles for each of the separate features Bumble offers "so no accidents happen."

However, the only thing that separates one mode from others is the logo at the top. So make sure you're in a clear state of mind (i.e. not drunk) when swiping. And if you're in a relationship and still want to use the app, you can now use the "It's just for networking, honey!" excuse if they discover the Bumble icon on your home screen.

4. It's Free

You can use the business version of the app for free just like the dating version of Bumble.

5. How to Get It

You can download Bumble Bizz via the app store for iPhones and Androids. At the end of October it will also become available for download on Google Play.

Ready to Launch Your Bizzness Career?

Now that you know as much as we do about Bumble's new feature, we'd like to hear back from you.

Did we create enough buzz about the new Bumble mode for you to try it out, or will you give Bizz a miss? Do you think a dating app could really rival a network like LinkedIn? Please, share your thoughts with us in the comments below.