Develop a Content Strategy
Being more active on LinkedIn starts with a well-thought-out content strategy. As a LinkedIn marketing expert, I’ve seen countless professionals struggle to gain traction on the platform simply because they lack direction. Let’s change that!
Decide on Your Content Focus and Topics
First things first, you need to decide what you’re going to talk about. Think about your expertise, your industry, and what your ideal audience wants to learn. For instance, if you’re a People & Culture Manager, you might focus on topics like:
• Diversity in the workplace
• Innovation in HR processes
• Employee engagement strategies
Choose 3-5 key topics that align with your personal brand and resonate with your target audience. Remember, consistency is key here!
Follow Relevant Thought Leaders and Pages
Once you’ve nailed down your topics, it’s time to curate your feed. Follow industry leaders, influential companies, and relevant hashtags. This not only keeps you informed but also provides a wealth of content to engage with.
Pro tip: Use the "bell" icon on profiles and pages to receive notifications when they post. This way, you’ll never miss an opportunity to engage with fresh, relevant content.
Curate Your LinkedIn Newsfeed
Your LinkedIn feed is your personal content goldmine. Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Unfollow connections whose content doesn’t align with your professional interests
- Follow hashtags related to your chosen topics
- Save posts you find interesting for later reference
Remember, LinkedIn isn’t just about posting your own content. It’s about joining conversations and adding value to your network.
Content Posting Options
Now that you’ve got your strategy in place, let’s talk about what you can actually post on LinkedIn.
Different Types of Content
LinkedIn offers a variety of content types:
• Articles and newsletters
• Photos and videos
• Text-based posts
• Polls
• Shared posts from your network
Don’t be afraid to mix it up! Different content types can help you reach and engage different segments of your audience.
Tips for Creating Engaging Content
Creating content that resonates with your audience is key to being more active on LinkedIn. Here are some tips:
- Use attention-grabbing headlines
- Include visuals whenever possible
- Ask questions to encourage engagement
- Share personal experiences and insights
- Keep it professional, but don’t be afraid to show your personality
Repurposing Existing Content
You don’t always need to create content from scratch. If you have a blog, consider repurposing your posts as LinkedIn articles. Presented at a conference recently? Share key takeaways in a post. The possibilities are endless!
Engage with Your Network
Being active on LinkedIn isn’t just about posting – it’s about engaging with others too.
React, Comment, and Share
Make it a habit to scroll through your feed daily and engage with posts that catch your eye. A simple like can go a long way, but thoughtful comments can really help you stand out.
Send Personalized Connection Requests
When you meet someone new, don’t just click "Connect." Take a moment to write a personalized message. It could be as simple as, "Great chatting about the Super Bowl at the networking event last night. Let’s stay in touch!"
Celebrate Milestones and Achievements
LinkedIn notifies you when your connections have work anniversaries or new jobs. Take a moment to congratulate them. It’s an easy way to nurture your relationships and stay top-of-mind.
Schedule Time for LinkedIn
Consistency is key when it comes to being active on LinkedIn. Treat it like any other important task in your workday.
Set Aside Dedicated Time
Block out 15-30 minutes each day for LinkedIn activities. This could be first thing in the morning with your coffee, or during your lunch break.
Habit Stacking Techniques
Try "habit stacking" – pair your LinkedIn time with something you already do regularly. For example, check your LinkedIn notifications while waiting for your morning coffee to brew.
Remember, being active on LinkedIn doesn’t mean you need to spend hours on the platform every day. Even 10-15 minutes of focused activity can make a big difference in your visibility and engagement.
FAQs
How often should I post on LinkedIn?
Aim for consistency rather than frequency. Posting 2-3 times a week is a good starting point for most professionals.
What types of content perform best on LinkedIn?
While it varies by industry, generally, posts that share personal insights, ask questions, or provide valuable information tend to perform well.
How do I grow my LinkedIn network?
Focus on quality over quantity. Connect with people you’ve met in person, engage with their content, and don’t be afraid to reach out to people in your industry for informational interviews.
Is it better to write articles or create posts on LinkedIn?
Both have their place. Posts are great for quick updates or thoughts, while articles allow you to dive deeper into a topic and showcase your expertise.
How can I measure the success of my LinkedIn activity?
LinkedIn provides analytics for your posts and profile views. Pay attention to engagement rates, profile views, and how your network is growing over time.
Should I use hashtags in my LinkedIn posts?
Yes, but use them strategically. Include 3-5 relevant hashtags per post to increase discoverability.
How can I use LinkedIn to generate leads for my business?
Focus on providing value through your content and engage authentically with your network. Use LinkedIn’s advanced search features to find potential leads and engage with their content before reaching out.