Thought Leadership and LinkedIn

As the world’s largest professional networking platform, LinkedIn is a powerful tool for thought leaders to share their ideas and connect with like-minded professionals. With over 850 million members worldwide, LinkedIn gives thought leaders a unique opportunity to reach a large and engaged audience.

However, becoming a thought leader on LinkedIn isn’t easy. 

It takes hard work, dedication, and a willingness to share your ideas freely. But the rewards are worth it. 

Thought leaders who build a strong presence on LinkedIn can position themselves as experts in their field, become trusted sources of information and build valuable relationships with other professionals.

If you’re ready to take your thought leadership to the next level, here are six tips to help you get started:

1. Share high-quality content 

When you share helpful and insightful blog posts, articles, or videos on LinkedIn, you’ll quickly build a reputation as a thought leader. Be sure to share original content that you’ve created rather than simply reposting others’ work.

2. Engage in thoughtful discussions 

Another great way to build thought leadership on LinkedIn is to participate in group discussions and leave thoughtful comments on other users’ posts. Interacting and conversing on various posts in a respectful and professional manner will elicit curiosity amongst those who may not know you and will lead to more “eyeballs” on your profile.

3. Use keyword-rich content to optimise your profile 

This allows your content to be discoverable and easily accessible.

4. Connect with other thought leaders in your field

 It’s an old saying, but on platforms such as LinkedIn, it rings very true:“Tell me who your friends are, and I will tell you who you are!”

5. Regularly update your profile and activity to remain visible 

Just like a shop front, your display needs to be refreshed. Your profile needs to keep them coming back and seeking more.

6. Use LinkedIn groups to connect with like-minded professionals 

Then, continue the conversation around topics you’re passionate about. Groups are, once again, increasing in popularity and some are now becoming more exclusive than before. This allows you to mingle amongst peers and position your brand amongst others in your industry.

A recent study by Social Media Agency Qnary indicated that:

• When describing the kind of content that they consume, professionals are most likely to view LinkedIn posts (49%). The second most common type of internet activity they are viewing is Tweets (36.4%), followed closely by YouTube videos (34%) and Instagram posts and stories (32.6%).

• An active social media presence not only benefits one’s own reputation, but 72% believe that it also helps their company’s overall communications strategy.

• In 2020, 40% of those surveyed stated they were more likely to purchase from a brand when following one of their leaders. In 2021 that number jumped to 53.3%. This nearly 15% increase shows that more communication from trusted sources or leaders can make an impact on the bottom line.

Reference: https://www.qnary.com/the-changing-face-of-executive-reputation-2021/

In addition, the recent Edelman/ LinkedIn Thought Leadership Impact Study identified the following insights:

In conclusion, LinkedIn is a powerful platform for thought leaders to connect with their audience and grow their personal brand.

By sharing valuable content, engaging in thoughtful discussions, and building relationships with other colleagues, you can position yourself as a thought leader in your industry and attract more followers who are interested in your ideas.

With a little effort, you can use LinkedIn to build a following of engaged fans who value your insights and look to you for guidance on the latest industry trends.

Con Sotidis, LinkedIn Strategist

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