From Resume to Ecosystem Part 1: Connecting, Building, and Growing Your LinkedIn Foundation

As I reflect on how far we've come since I wrote and published 'Balance is Bullsh*t,' in 2020, I realize that LinkedIn has morphed into so much more than a digital resume. It’s now its own thriving ecosystem where we make meaningful connections, establish thought leadership, and discover incredible opportunities.  

But with the digital world moving at lightning speed, SOME of those original concepts from my book may need an update, a few things have changed since 2020, but not by much. That's why this month's Dopamine Dose newsletter is taking on a whole new form: a 2-part series based on the chapters of 'Balance is Bullsh*t' – specifically tailored to the LinkedIn terrain of 2024.  

This gives me a structured way to share the latest strategies for using this powerhouse platform in our modern, AI-powered world.  

Sidenote 👀: Can you believe 'Balance is Bullsh*t' came out before Ava came along? Crazy! If balance was impossible then, I don’t even know how to describe it today.  

Reinventing Connection

Authentic Networking

Let's be real – networking isn't just about collecting connections like baseball cards. It’s about building genuine relationships. And when I think about authenticity, I am reminded of what life was like just 10 months ago when my second daughter, Ava, was a newborn. Those sleepless nights were made easier by the authentic support Rachel and I received from friends and family.

Similarly, on LinkedIn, engage with your network authentically. Share your journey, insights, and value without expecting immediate returns. Studies show that professionals who actively engage with their network see a 50% increase in opportunities.

Community Building 

Remember those summer weekend barbecues with family and friends? The laughter, the shared stories, the feeling of belonging? That's what building a community around your brand is all about. It's not just about another business strategy, it's about finding your people, the ones who get you, who get your vision and values. LinkedIn is your go-to platform for building this kind of community. Think of it as your digital backyard barbecue. Join groups, get into the discussions, and attend those LinkedIn events. You never know who you might meet, and the connections you make can be life-changing.

Speaking of life-changing, you won't believe this: my wedding party? I met most of them through LinkedIn! It's a testament to how powerful those online connections can be. They turned into real-life friendships, bonds that go beyond just business. And the numbers don't lie: 60% of people on LinkedIn are part of at least one professional group. That's serious engagement, real connections, and it's not just a feeling, it's a fact.

I've personally experienced this firsthand in groups like the Genius Network, founded by the incredible Joe Polish. It's been a wild ride – I've learned more than I thought possible, had the opportunity to speak on stage, and even landed some fantastic podcast interviews. But the best part? The incredible connections I've made, the kind that go way beyond a simple LinkedIn profile.

And let's be real, there's also the amazing business opportunities that come with it. It's a win-win situation, building a community around your brand: you find your people, you learn and grow, and you open doors to incredible opportunities. It's time to fire up the grill and get connected!

Engagement Algorithms

It's not about sporadic bursts of activity; it's about consistent, reliable engagement. Just like my monthly date nights with Rachel build trust and intimacy, consistently sharing valuable content, engaging with others' posts, and actively participating in conversations builds your online presence and trust with the algorithm.

Think of it this way: LinkedIn's algorithms love routine, just like we do. When you consistently post valuable content, comment on others' posts, and engage in discussions, you signal to the platform that you're a valuable contributor. The reward? Increased visibility, reaching a wider audience, and ultimately, achieving your LinkedIn goals.  Recent data from 2024 shows that users who post consistently see a 2x increase in profile views and engagement. It's a simple formula for success, and one that can truly move you to the forefront of your industry. So, commit to a regular posting schedule, engage authentically with your network, and watch your LinkedIn profile stand out.

Humanizing Your Brand 

Storytelling 

People connect with people, not faceless keyboard warriors. Share your personal stories and experiences to humanize your brand. I often put my private life on public mode so my audience can connect with me via my personal values and struggles. Over the years I’ve had SO many people in my network reach out and tell me they’ve been moved by a particular story I shared. So don’t be afraid to open up, let your audience see the real you.  

 “Stories are remembered up to 22 times more than facts alone,” calculates Dr. Jennifer Aaker, behavioral scientist and General Atlantic Professor and Coulter Family Fellow at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. 

Okay, so remember that post I did a couple of months back about me and my son hitting the pavement together? It was all about lacing up our sneakers and building that father-son bond, but it also became this unexpected leadership lesson. I mean, I'm not one to go all "Dear Diary" on social media, but there's something about sharing those relatable moments that really resonates with other folks.  

The cool thing is, it tapped into this whole parent-leader vibe, especially for those of us leading Gen Z. You know, the "always-on" generation that's all about authenticity and connection. Parenting throws some curveballs at you, just like my past injury did. But, I talked about how working through that setback, even while trying to keep up with my son's energy, taught me so much about resilience and leading with empathy.  

The analytics don't lie, though. This approach – keeping it personal but grounded in leadership – really clicked with people. We're talking about 3,789 impressions, 2,500 unique views, 223 likes, and 58 comments. It's proof that tapping into those shared experiences – whether it's running, parenting, or whatever challenges we're facing – can build bridges with your audience and make your leadership message way more impactful.

Employee Advocacy 

Encourage your team to share their experiences and insights on LinkedIn. This not only amplifies your brand but also showcases the human side of your business. When Rachel shares her journey as my wife and business partner, it adds layers to our brand that resonate deeply with our audience. 

Visual Content 

Use videos, images, and infographics to tell your story more engagingly. Visual content is powerful in capturing attention and conveying your message. Videos are shared 20 times more than any other content on LinkedIn. So, get on that selfie mode and get behind the camera! 

🔵 Use a variety of visual content types: Don't just rely on photos. Mix it up with videos, infographics, and even GIFS! (we are going to be testing GIFS out soon) 

🔵 Keep it short and sweet: Attention spans are short. Aim for videos under 2 minutes and infographics with easy-to-digest information. 

🔵 Use quality visuals: Make sure your images and videos are clear, well-lit, and professional. 

🔵 Don't forget captions and text overlays: Provide context and key information for viewers who might not have sound turned on. 

H2H: The Future of Business 

Human-to-Human (H2H) Marketing 

I’ve always talked about this, and it’s staying the same. Move beyond B2B and B2C. Focus on H2H interactions. Understand the person behind the business decision and build relationships based on trust and mutual respect. Think of it like the candid heart-to-heart talk you have with a loved one. Real, honest conversations build stronger bonds.

Empathy in Business 

Show empathy in your interactions. Listen to your audience’s needs and offer support. This builds stronger, more meaningful connections. Empathy has been shown to increase customer loyalty by 30%. 

Personalization 

Tailor your messages and content to address your audience's specific needs and interests. Personalized experiences foster deeper connections and loyalty. Just like how I personalize my advice for Jayden based on his unique interests and challenges, do the same for your LinkedIn connections. 

Embrace the NEW LinkedIn Terrain 

LinkedIn is not just a professional network; it’s like a big country with its own rules, laws and social norms in which we connect, share, and grow. By embracing its full potential, you can build a powerful personal brand that stands out, create meaningful connections, and nurture real business opportunities.  

Our StandOut Authority team and I are here to guide you every step of the way, helping you navigate this dynamic landscape and achieve your greatest success. Send me a DM if your brand or company needs guidance and support.  

Get ready for Part 2 of my Dopamine Dose series this month! We'll dive deeper into these strategies and show you how to apply them to your LinkedIn profile for better results.  

Stay human and stay connected. 

🎧 Want to stand out on LinkedIn and turn connections into advocates?   Epi Ludvik had me on as guest on the BOLD Talks Podcast and that’s just one of the things we chatted about.  

I shared insights on turning your profile into a magnet for high-value relationships and opportunities. Get ready to learn how to humanize your online presence and listen to the full episode here. 🚀