Using hashtags and trends: Maximising your reach on LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a powerful platform for building your professional brand, but standing out in a sea of content requires strategy. Hashtags and trending topics are two key tools that can significantly boost your reach and visibility. Here’s how to use them effectively.

Why hashtags matter

Hashtags categorise content, making it easier for users to discover posts relevant to their interests. When used correctly, hashtags can expand your content’s reach beyond your immediate network, putting it in front of professionals who share similar interests or are searching for related topics.

6 tips for using hashtags effectively

1. Choose relevant hashtags: Focus on hashtags directly related to your post’s topic. For example, if you’re writing about marketing, use hashtags like #DigitalMarketing or #ContentStrategy.
2. Follow industry hashtags: Follow hashtags popular in your field to stay informed and gain inspiration for your content. LinkedIn allows you to follow hashtags like #Leadership, #Diversity, or #Innovation.
3. Use a mix of popular and niche hashtags: Combine widely used hashtags (e.g., #CareerGrowth) with niche ones (e.g., #B2BRecruitment). Popular hashtags increase reach, while niche ones target your specific audience.
4. Limit the number of hashtags: Use 3-5 hashtags per post to keep it clean and professional. Too many hashtags can dilute your message.
5. Test and rank performance: Experiment with different hashtags and use LinkedIn analytics to see which performs best. This helps refine your strategy over time.
6. Position hashtags at the end of your post or weave them naturally into your content.

Trending topics: join the conversation

Trending topics offer a golden opportunity to engage with timely, relevant conversations and attract a broader audience. These are often tied to events, industry news, or LinkedIn-related issues.

3 tips for leveraging trends

1. Be timely: Act fast when a trend emerges. Posts tied to current events or conversations are more likely to gain traction.
2. Add value to the trend: Avoid generic commentary. Share a unique perspective, insight, or actionable advice related to the trend.
3. Create interactive content: Use trending topics to spark discussions. For instance, create a poll or ask a question to engage your audience.

Practical example

Imagine you’re a marketer, and a trending topic is #AIInMarketing. Here’s how you could craft a post:

• Share a brief insight on how AI is transforming marketing strategies.
• Use hashtags like #AIInMarketing, #FutureOfWork, and #DigitalTransformation.
• Add a question to invite engagement: “How do you see AI impacting your marketing efforts in the next 5 years?”

Engaging with hashtag communities

When you use a hashtag, you’re not just tagging your post—you’re joining a community. To make the most of this:

• Engage with other posts using the same hashtag by liking, commenting, and sharing.
• Contribute thoughtfully to ongoing conversations to build credibility and expand your network.
• Follow hashtags to stay updated on relevant discussions and trends in your industry.

Final thoughts

Hashtags and trending topics aren’t just tools—they’re opportunities. They allow you to amplify your voice, build credibility, and connect with like-minded professionals. By using them thoughtfully, you can turn your content into a conversation starter and grow your LinkedIn presence authentically.

What’s your go-to hashtag? Share your tips in the comments below!

This is part of LinkedIn's new Newsletter Series 'How to Win on LinkedIn'.

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