LinkedIn is now trying to provide a site that is somewhat lighter by offering applicatons that are created by other companies.

8 such external programs debuted on Wednesday. By using these, linkedIn is hoping to become a more attractive place to keep in touch with business contacts or further one’s career options.

More than 30 million people worldwide have created a LinkedIn profile. LinkedIn is now trying to imitate sites such as Facebook or Myspace who allow games and media sharing with fellow members.

Clearly the applications still have to be of a professional nature and are being screened to prevent the loopholes that negatively affected MySpace and Facebook applications.

Some of the initial LinkedIn external applications include a file management system from Box.net, a business presentation software from Google, a Tripit travel itinerary tool, and an Amazon application for sharing book recommendations.