How to Become a LinkedIn Top Voice (Or at Least Hope the Gods at LinkedIn Notice!)

Let’s face it—becoming a LinkedIn Top Voice feels like an elusive dream for many of us. It’s one of those coveted badges that immediately signals authority and credibility. But how does one get there?

As someone who hasn’t yet joined the ranks but aspires to (hint, hint, LinkedIn gods!), I’ve spent a lot of time analyzing what makes a Top Voice stand out. Here’s what I’ve learned from the real Top Voices and my ongoing quest to contribute meaningfully to the platform.

What Is a LinkedIn Top Voice?

LinkedIn awards two types of Top Voice badges:

1. Golden Badges: Recognize thought leaders in specific niches like “Leadership” or “Marketing.”
2. Blue Badges: Awarded annually to the most influential contributors across the platform.

These badges aren’t just decorations—they reflect months (if not years) of consistent effort, valuable contributions, and meaningful engagement.

How Can You (or I) Become a LinkedIn Top Voice?

Here’s the playbook I’m following. While I can’t guarantee it’ll make us Top Voices overnight, it’s certainly a roadmap to making an impact.

1. Pick a Niche and Stick to It

Top Voices are specialists, not generalists. They own a specific space, whether it’s career advice, sustainability, or AI. To stand out, you need to focus.

• My Approach: I’ve chosen the topic of becoming unforgettable. Every post, article, or comment I share revolves around this topic. I want to be the go-to person for anyone navigating this space.
• Tip for You: Ask yourself: What’s the one area where you can add unique insights? Focus on that relentlessly.

2. Be Consistently Valuable

Posting sporadically or sharing fluff won’t get you noticed. Top Voices provide actionable insights, thought-provoking ideas, and inspiring stories that resonate with their audience.

• My Strategy: I aim to post 3-5 times a week, alternating between educational posts, personal anecdotes, and engaging questions. Each post has to pass the “Would this help someone?” test.
• Tip for You: Focus on quality over quantity. Even one well-thought-out post a week can make a difference if it genuinely helps your audience.

3. Engage, Don’t Broadcast

The gods of LinkedIn favor those who create conversations, not just content. Top Voices are active in their communities—they engage with others’ posts, comment thoughtfully, and react meaningfully.

• What I’m Doing: I dedicate 15-20 minutes daily to comment on posts from my network, especially within my niche. I try to add value to their conversations rather than just saying “Great post!”
• Pro Tip: Comments that add depth or unique perspectives are more likely to be noticed and appreciated.

4. Contribute to Collaborative Articles

LinkedIn’s collaborative articles are a secret weapon for aspiring Top Voices. These editor-curated discussions let you showcase your expertise directly within the platform’s ecosystem.

• What I’m Trying: I regularly contribute to articles in my niche. The key is not to write generic advice but to share specific, actionable tips that readers will find insightful.
• For You: Check the collaborative articles in your industry (listed on the right-hand side of LinkedIn’s feed). Add your voice where it fits best.

5. Be Relatable and Authentic

People don’t connect with robots or perfection—they connect with stories, struggles, and authenticity. Top Voices share their professional journeys, lessons learned, and even failures.

• How I Approach This: I share behind-the-scenes insights from my work, from successes to missteps. For example, I once wrote about how a marketing campaign failed and what it taught me—it got some of the highest engagement I’ve ever seen.
• Pro Tip: Vulnerability isn’t weakness; it’s connection. Share your authentic self, and people will respond.

6. Watch the Metrics but Don’t Obsess

LinkedIn loves engagement, and so do the Top Voice selectors. Posts that spark conversations (comments, reactions, shares) are more likely to catch attention.

• What I’m Doing: I monitor my analytics weekly to see which types of content perform best. This helps me refine my strategy while staying true to my voice.
• Pro Tip for You: Experiment with formats—polls, videos, carousels—and learn what your audience prefers.

But Isn’t It All Just Vanity?

This is a question I’ve wrestled with, and my answer is simple: No.

Aspiring to be a Top Voice isn’t about vanity; it’s about impact. It’s about amplifying your expertise, helping others, and sparking meaningful conversations. The badge is just the recognition of those efforts.

A Final Word (And a Little Prayer to LinkedIn )

Becoming a Top Voice isn’t a science—it’s a blend of consistent effort, authentic engagement, and a bit of luck. While I’m not there yet, I hope these steps inspire you to build your own path.

And to the gods at LinkedIn, if you’re reading this, I promise to keep contributing value, engaging meaningfully, and sharing authentically. Maybe, just maybe, one day you’ll notice.

Are you on a similar journey? Let’s share tips, stories, and lessons in the comments! Together, we’ll grow—Top Voice badge or not.