To Share or Not to Share: Personal Content on LinkedIn
Paul Banks
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It's a HUGELY divisive topic on LinkedIn... but it's an important one to get right, and I'll explain why in a moment.
Should You Share Personal Posts on LinkedIn?
Alright, so you're scrolling through LinkedIn and thinking, "Hmm, should I share something personal here?" It's a common question. Some folks keep it all business, while others sprinkle in personal tales. What's the best move?
Understanding LinkedIn's Vibe
Think of LinkedIn as a big office where everyone's sharing news. It used to be really formal, just job announcements and professional updates. But now? People share a bit more about their lives. It's still professional but with a friendly twist. A lot of this changed during Covid, when many of us started to remote work, and lots of folks were craving that personal connection with everyone else.
The Personal Touch on LinkedIn
Imagine you're at that office lounge, and someone shares a story about their weekend hike or a cool hobby. You'd probably find it interesting, right? That's the idea on LinkedIn too. Sharing a bit about your personal interests or achievements can make all the difference in getting your ideal audience to align with you... you become a 'person', not a 'job title' or a business spokesperson.
Balancing Act: Personal and Professional
Here's how to balance things: Think of the workweek as 'business time.' That's when you post your work wins, insights, and professional thoughts. But when the weekend rolls around, it's like casual Friday. Maybe share something personal that you're proud of or that brings you joy. It's all about timing and balance. I'd actually argue that a Sunday afternoon is a GREAT time for posting business content, as most business leaders are online, deleting emails ready for Monday.(Oops, I meant reading them ha!)
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Why Your Story Matters
People like to know who they're dealing with, especially in the business world. If you share a little about what makes you tick, like your passion for charity runs or your knack for photography, it makes you more relatable. It's like letting someone peek behind the curtain to see what drives you, beyond just work.
The Bottom Line: Be You, But Wisely
So, yes, it's cool to share personal stuff on LinkedIn, but keep the mix right. Let people see a bit of your personality shine through. It makes you more than just a resume or a job title. But remember, it's still a professional space, so keep it classy and relevant.
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8moYou're so right, Paul! Getting that balance of professionalism while sharing a bit about yourself helps people to get to know the real you, not just the professional facade that many of us put on. Knowing who someone is, a bit about their background and their values helps with building trust -- essential when deciding whether to work with someone. Great piece! Meanwhile, I'm looking forward to your next Content Creation webinar!
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8moPaul, you're right. The blend is key. And the specifics are key as well. I'm ok hearing that someone's hike cleared their mind which inspired a particular idea that then created tangible business value. I'm NOT ok hearing about someone's post nasal drip. Perhaps the filter could be...does what you're sharing **eventually** tie to something in business? One thing that has changed is timing. It seems that my content lasts MUCH longer than before. So even if I plan a personal-ish post on a Friday, it still may be viewed by someone on Wednesday at 11:17.