LinkedIn Basics

💌 Dear 1L,

If you’re new to “engaging” on LinkedIn, please don’t be intimidated. I was like you last August. I still get terrible anxiety before posting. It makes me feel better when I can help you.

Today I share some info that helped me understand better how LinkedIn works. If you want to follow a real expert, I recommend the wonderful John Espirian. Below is my own personal understanding and view of how things work today. I hope it helps you get started.

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✏️ “LIKES” 

When you “like” a post—including “love,” “repost,” “share,” etc., (they all count the same)—it’s like saying “thank you” to the post’s author. If you read and took value or enjoyment from a post, it’s polite to say “thank you.” 

🔹 Tip 1: Like a post by someone you want to thank. That’s polite. Being polite is good.

✏️ COMMENTS

When you “comment” on a post with 5 or more words, it’s like writing a thank you note (or whatever you want to write) to the author. A comment is a greater gift than a “like.” It’s more appreciated, and it’s more likely to get you noticed and thanked. 

But don’t comment just to comment if the post did not resonate with you or you have nothing to say.

In groups, a comment counts 5x more than a like. (LI has not said the same for public posts, but experts say it’s logical that the ratio applies here, too). 

🔹 Tip 2:  If you have something to say, comment. That’s more likely to get noticed and start earning good will. Good will is good.

✏️ NOTIFICATIONS FROM LINKEDIN

If you want to get notice whenever someone you follow posts, go to their Profile and tap the bell icon (in upper right corner). It will darken, and you’ll start to get notices of the posts. (Tap the bell again to deselect.) The person whose bell you tap/untap will NOT know either way.

    ▫️ You must follow (or connect and not unfollow) someone to see their bell. Also, you won’t see a bell on your own Profile.

The system isn’t perfect, but I get notices about 90% of the time. 

🔹 I’ve no tip on this one. It’s neutral.

✏️ EARLY “LIKES” & COMMENTS COUNT MORE

The first two hours after a post, any Like (including “love” and all other emojis) and any Comment helps the original post (and its author) significantly more than later engagement.  

🔹 Tip 3: Engage early to get noticed. Getting noticed is really good.

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📥 Please let me know your thoughts. I try to read and respond promptly to all comments.

Fondly,

💌 Amanda

P.S. Follow —> #Dear1L (1,392 followers) for future letters in your feed.

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