Why companies should empower their employees with LinkedIn

As a LinkedIn coach, the transformation I’ve seen within companies that integrate LinkedIn into their employees’ professional development is noteworthy. It isn't just about fostering individual growth; it's a strategic move that elevates the entire company’s stature on this professional networking platform. It’s a win-win!?

In this article, I’ll share three reasons why companies should empower their employees with LinkedIn.

Employee Advocacy & Brand Image

It’s evident that employees’ voices are not just heard; they are influential and pivotal in enhancing the company's brand image. When an employee shares content or comments, audiences tie it back to the company. According to LinkedIn’s Guide to Employee Advocacy, “The click-through rate on a piece of content is 2x higher when shared by an employee versus when shared by the company itself”.

Our employees, with their genuine voices, are our most potent brand ambassadors. Every interaction on LinkedIn is an opportunity for brand growth. As LinkedIn’s Best Practices Blog shares, “Employees are 70% more likely to engage with your company updates [on LinkedIn].” Every interaction multiplies the brand’s visibility across diverse networks.

Talent Retention & Acquisition

In today’s competitive environment, attracting and retaining talent has become a nuanced art. A company’s digital presence, spearheaded by its employees' engagement, is often the first touchpoint for prospective talents.

“Companies with socially engaged employees are 58% more likely to attract top talent and 20% more likely to retain them”, reveals LinkedIn’s Guide to Employee Advocacy. The energy and engagement level of employees on LinkedIn can linked to a vibrant company culture.

Investing in employee growth, particularly in mastering platforms like LinkedIn, contributes to an internal culture of loyalty and advocacy. To quote a sentiment that resonates across industries, 'Happy employees lead to happy customers'.

Trust & Credibility

Consider this: In a world dominated by branding and advertisements, who do you trust more? A corporate logo, a faceless entity, or a real person's voice, sharing real experiences??

In a landscape inundated with corporate messages, the human touch stands out. Real people sharing real experiences transcend corporate logos and branding, striking a chord of trust and reliability. A message shared by an employee, rather than a corporate account, feels more genuine and relatable. An article from Forbes underscores the importance, “the more human your brand becomes, the easier it is to build emotional connections and trust with clients and shareholders”.?

When employees share thought leadership content, it builds trust. According to a 2021 study by LinkedIn & Edelman, “89% of decision-makers say thought leadership has enhanced their perceptions of an organisation”.?

A thought leadership post from an employee is not just content; it's a testament to the company’s credibility. With many of us looking to social media as a source of fact-finding, it’s no wonder that LinkedIn can be a tool in purchasing decisions.

In the digital age, where connections are forged with a click and reputations are built on shared insights, platforms like LinkedIn are no longer optional, they are imperative.

By empowering your employees on LinkedIn, your company will benefit from increased brand visibility from employee advocacy, improved employee retention and talent acquisition, and building trust and credibility in your brand. Plus, your employees can build their personal brand, spotlight their expertise, and develop their confidence and skills.?

So, let’s not merely be on LinkedIn, let’s empower every individual in our teams to be the voice and the force behind our brands.