What To Post (And What NOT To Post) On LinkedIn

"What do I on LinkedIn? Do I 💩 post on there?" was a question I was asked last year by a GenZ job searcher.

While some folks do post unhinged content on LinkedIn for laughs or attention (and occasionally it goes viral), this isn’t the platform built for 💩 posting. Because LinkedIn is tied to your professional brand, random or chaotic posts can turn off potential employers, clients, or collaborators.

For all the hate that LinkedIn gets (and sometimes, rightly so), it still is the one social media platform where the main purpose is to establish and build connections that further your career.

Here's where your power lies: Only 5% of LinkedIn's users actively post content. That stat's pretty wild to me! Job searchers who only utilize the job board feature and whose LinkedIn profiles just sit there like sad, abandoned yard signs miss out on a lot of opportunities to stand out from the competition. Don't be one of them!

All that said, there's a right way and a wrong way to post on LinkedIn (and I'm not talking about the LinkedIn algorithm here, because that's a whole separate topic in itself).

Here are some guidelines on what to post and what NOT to post on Linkedin:

✅DO's

Industry Insights: Share articles, news, and your take on trends in your field. Position yourself as a knowledgeable and current professional.

Your Achievements & Projects: Just landed a certification or completed a great project? Share the news (briefly explaining your role and learnings)! Visuals are a plus!

Engaging Questions: Spark conversations by asking thoughtful questions related to your industry or career goals.

Helpful Resources: Found a great article on resume tips or a valuable online course? Share the wealth!

Thoughtful Comments: Engage with posts that resonate with you by leaving insightful and relevant comments. Build those connections!

Strategic Company Updates: A thoughtful share of exciting news from a company you admire can show your interest.

❌ AVOID:

Excessive Personal Info: Keep it professional. LinkedIn isn't for overly personal updates.

Negative/Controversial Content: Complaining or sharing strong opinions can be a red flag. Stay positive and professional.

Generic/Low-Effort Shares: Add your own thoughts! Don't just keep hitting "repost" without context.

Anything You Wouldn't Want Your Future Boss to See: The golden rule! Always consider your professional image.

💡 Key Takeaway: Be strategic and intentional with your LinkedIn activity. Focus on adding value, engaging thoughtfully, and showcasing your professional self.

LinkedIn as a 24/7 networking event or career fair where you can showcase your skills, share what you’re learning, cheer on others in your field, and ask smart questions that show you’re curious and driven.

It's a powerful career tool, if you use it correctly. It's where your future boss, mentor, or client might discover you! It's there for you to take advantage of, so use it to the hilt!