> Is there something I am fundamentally missing, if I jump ship?

Basic People/Company/Industry research capabilities, it's the most under-utilized tool on Linkedin.

If you need a quick contact name in a particular organization or space-- there is no better way to find individuals-- (who you may or may not know).

And these are people who you may be able to help-- and potentially assist you.

On the burden of Linkedin update spam, you can control your notifications.