The LinkedIn Algorithm - Top 10 Tips for Success

The LinkedIn algorithm is designed to prioritize content that is most relevant and engaging to users, based on their interactions, connections, and interests.

?? So can you 'play' the algorithm?...

An example of a post that found an engaged audience - and tickled the LinkedIn algorithm's fancy - was the 2 minute 28 second 'Car Wars' explainer delivered by Sky News Economics Editor Ed Conway. Link here if you missed it first time around ??CAR WARS - SKY NEWS

For sure that particular post was very successful in terms of reach and engagement...but many of my posts DON'T fly in the same way...

I don't want to be a slave to the algorithm!

For sure I'm keen to engage with YOU in a positive way and witness the enhanced value that comes with conversation, but I'm also keen to provide an eclectic viewpoint on the world - and to present and discuss all the colours - all the facets - on the Life's 'Rubik's Cube'...

For example - I love going to the movies (I'm a member of a club that has a particularly comfy cinema) and when I've watched something I think YOU might like - I'll pop that up as a post with a synopsis and recommendation.

I don't want to be seen as an EV only guy!

My post after watching Asif Kapadia's dystopian future world...you'll squirm in your seat for sure - even if it is a particularly comfy seat!) ?? 2073

Meanwhile - back at the algorithm!...

While LinkedIn does not publicly disclose the exact details of its algorithm, here are some key factors and principles that influence how content is ranked and displayed in users' feeds:

1. Relevance and Personalization - The algorithm tailors content to individual users based on their profile information, such as industry, job title, skills, and interests. - It considers the user's past behavior, including the types of posts they engage with (likes, comments, shares) and the accounts they interact with most frequently.

2. Engagement Signals - Early Engagement: Posts that receive quick engagement (likes, comments, shares) shortly after being published are more likely to be prioritized. - Quality of Engagement: Comments and meaningful interactions (e.g., longer comments or replies) are weighted more heavily than simple likes. - Dwell Time: The amount of time a user spends viewing a post or article is also a signal of its relevance.

Some call it 'THE GOLDEN HOUR' so best not to post just before you go to bed, drive somewhere, or hop on a plane. Not responding to those early comments promptly is the equivalent of completely ignoring someone who just walked up to you and said hello!

3. Content Type - Different types of content (text posts, images, videos, articles, etc.) are ranked differently based on user preferences and engagement patterns. - Native content (uploaded directly to LinkedIn) often performs better than external links, as LinkedIn aims to keep users on its platform.

4. Creator and Connection Strength - Posts from users you are closely connected to (e.g., 1st-degree connections) or frequently interact with are prioritized. - Content from creators who consistently produce high-engagement posts may also receive a boost.

5. Timeliness - Fresh content is prioritized over older posts, but the algorithm also resurfaces older content if it continues to receive engagement.

6. Spam and Low-Quality Content Filtering - The algorithm demotes or hides content that is flagged as spam, overly promotional, or low-quality. - Posts with clickbait headlines, excessive hashtags, or irrelevant links are less likely to perform well.

7. Hashtags and Keywords - Using relevant hashtags and keywords can help the algorithm categorize and surface your content to the right audience. - However, overusing hashtags or using irrelevant ones can negatively impact reach.

I have a rule of thumb with # which is to use no more than 4 - either at the bottom of the post or within the body text.

8. User Feedback - LinkedIn uses implicit feedback (e.g., skipping past a post) and explicit feedback (e.g., marking a post as irrelevant) to refine what appears in a user's feed.

9. Video Content - Native videos, especially those that capture attention early, tend to perform well. LinkedIn prioritizes videos that are watched for longer durations.

Short form video content is something I focus on a lot. I make my own videos using an IPhone 12, edit on Final Cut Pro, and use music under licence from MusicVine

10. Algorithm Updates - LinkedIn regularly updates its algorithm to improve user experience and adapt to changing behaviors. For example, recent updates have emphasized meaningful conversations and professional insights over viral content.

Tips for Leveraging the LinkedIn Algorithm: - Post content that sparks meaningful conversations and professional value. - Use a mix of content formats (text, images, videos) to see what resonates with your audience. - Engage with your audience by responding to comments and participating in discussions. - Avoid overly promotional or spammy content. - Post consistently and at times when your audience is most active.

By understanding these factors, users and creators can optimize their content to align with the LinkedIn algorithm and increase their visibility and engagement on the platform.

And how do I know all of this?

Other than a few personal interjections/examples - the 10 Tips are from a DeepSeek query.