XING vs. LinkedIn: On Which Platform Do Recruiters Find the Best Executives?

Digital transformation has fundamentally changed recruiting. Especially when it comes to finding qualified executives, professional online networks play a crucial role. Business platforms like XING and LinkedIn offer recruiters a wide range of opportunities to connect with experienced professionals and leaders.

The Technical University of Munich found out that LinkedIn users are more than three times as likely to engage with business content compared to XING users. On the other hand, response rates for regional B2B inquiries are 22% higher on XING. So which platform is better for finding and actively approaching talent, and which is more promising for companies?

XING vs. LinkedIn

XING and LinkedIn are among the most important career networks in German-speaking countries. While XING is particularly popular in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland (DACH region), LinkedIn has built up a global community with millions of users. The user structure and focus of the two platforms differ:

• Reach and Membership: XING focuses on the DACH region, while LinkedIn is global with a much broader international reach.
• Target Groups and Focus: XING primarily addresses professionals and executives from the DACH region, while LinkedIn attracts international experts from diverse industries.
• Users and Activity: LinkedIn has 28 million users in the DACH region, compared to XING’s 22.5 million. Surveys show LinkedIn leads with 12% regular users compared to XING’s 5%.

Features for Recruiters

Both networks offer extensive search functions and recruiting tools, but differ in terms of usability, data quality, and employer branding opportunities.

Advantages and disadvantages of XING

XING is the leading career network in German-speaking countries and is particularly useful when searching for executives for locations in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

Advantages: The detailed filter options and strong networking within the DACH region make XING particularly attractive for regional and medium-sized companies. Groups and forums offer a platform for direct exchange with executives. Regional events are well received by XING users and work even better locally than online. Many medium-sized companies prefer to present themselves in person and find candidates among the visitors.

Disadvantages: Compared to LinkedIn, the international opportunities are limited. Top executives with a global focus are often more active on LinkedIn. XING is also losing popularity among younger target groups.

Advantages and disadvantages of LinkedIn

LinkedIn has developed into an international platform for career and business networking and offers recruiters access to global leadership talent.

Advantages: With its global and active user base, LinkedIn is particularly suitable for targeting executives with an international focus. Its recruiting tools are powerful and enable targeted searches including recommendations and candidate insights.

Disadvantages: In German-speaking countries, the network is often less dense than on XING. LinkedIn is not always the first choice for regional searches or specific DACH requirements. Competition for top executives is global and therefore much more intense.

Tips for Finding Executives on Both Platforms

Regardless of which business network you use for your recruiting, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure your search for specialists and executives on XING or LinkedIn is successful:

• Develop a strategy: Based on your recruiting goal, decide whether you want to search regionally or internationally.
• Use search functions effectively: Apply precise filters, keywords, and algorithms to efficiently identify the right candidates.
• Individualize your approach: Personalized messages and authentic employer branding increase the response rate.
• Nurture your network: Stay active in relevant groups, forums, and through your own content to increase visibility.
• Avoid mistakes: Skip mass messages and overly standardized text blocks – executives expect appreciation and relevant communication.

Where Do Recruiters Find the Best Executives?

The choice of the right platform depends on company needs and the type of executives sought.

• XING excels in regional searches and close networking within the DACH region – ideal for mid-sized companies, quick hires (with AI support), and direct outreach to passive candidates. Recruiters can assess not only résumés but also cultural fit and values.
• LinkedIn provides access to internationally oriented top talent, innovative recruiting features, wider reach, higher engagement, and strong B2B lead KPIs – making it ideal for international audiences, thought leadership, and qualified lead generation. LinkedIn also makes it easier to build a strong employer brand, offering companies a compelling presence on the platform.

Recruiters should strategically leverage both platforms to secure top executives and strengthen their competitive edge in the talent market.

Need advice on how to use business networks for recruiting? Contact us, and let’s optimize your recruiting strategy together.