Value vs. Validation: Why I No Longer Chase LinkedIn Numbers

Hey there and Happy Friday

It's me again, your no-nonsense Irish LinkedIn Mindset and Brand Strategist. Today in my 3rd newsletter and today I'm tackling the world of "vanity metrics"!

Many of us find ourselves caught up in the allure of metrics — likes, comments, and shares. Initially, these numbers can feel like a direct reflection of our success and influence.

I definitely remember a time when I was obsessed with these believing they validated my efforts and boosted my personal brand.

But over the last year I’ve learned a crucial (and at time tough) lesson: True success on LinkedIn is about value, not validation.

The Illusion of Validation

When I first started on my LinkedIn journey, every notification of a new like or comment was a small victory. It felt validating. The higher the numbers climbed, the more I thought I was on the right path. And this is where the danger was lying - because I then got swayed and pulled in a direction that actually wasn't where I wanted or needed to be - it was completely audience driven rather than being driven by my purpose, my vision and my mission!

My obsession with metrics began to reveal a lot of mistakes and pitfalls.

• Numbers Aren’t Everything

While high engagement numbers can feel great and give you a buzz, they don’t always equate to meaningful impact. I’ve had posts that didn’t perform particularly well in terms of likes or shares but sparked valuable conversations and connections behind the scenes. The real measure of success is not in the numbers but in the quality of interactions and the difference you make in others' lives.

• The Distraction of Validation

Focusing too heavily on validation can be distracting - and this was a biggie for me! It leads to creating content that’s designed to please rather than to inform or inspire. This shift can dilute the authenticity and effectiveness of your personal brand. Instead of seeking validation, aim to deliver content that is genuinely valuable to your audience.

Shifting to Value: A Game-Changer for Your Personal Brand

As I transitioned from seeking validation to prioritising value, the impact on my personal brand was profound. Here’s how shifting the focus to value transformed my LinkedIn presence:

• Building Authentic Relationships

By focusing on delivering real value- whether through insights, advice, or thoughtful content - I was able to build deeper connections. These authentic interactions foster trust and establish you as a credible resource. Over time, this approach has led to much more meaningful professional relationships and opportunities.

• Embracing Constructive Feedback

When I shifted my focus from validation to value, I became more open to constructive feedback. This openness allowed me to refine my content and approach based on what truly resonated with my audience, rather than what merely generated high engagement numbers.

• Redefining Success & Shifting my Mindset

Success on LinkedIn is not just about numbers but about the tangible impact you make and this was a huge mindset shift for me. Measuring success by the quality of conversations, the depth of connections, and the real-world impact of your content has been a more fulfilling and effective approach.

Strategies for Focusing on Value Over Validation

If you’re ready to make a similar shift, here are some strategies that might help:

• Create with Purpose

Ask yourself how your content can provide value to your audience. Focus on addressing their needs, solving problems, or sparking meaningful discussions. Quality content that serves a purpose is far more impactful than content designed merely to attract likes.

• Engage Authentically

Rather than just watching metrics, actively engage with your audience. Respond to comments, participate in discussions, and show appreciation for their feedback. This engagement builds trust and reinforces your value as a thought leader.

• Measure Impact Differently

Move beyond likes and shares. Consider how many valuable conversations your content has generated or how many people have reached out to you for further discussion or collaboration. These qualitative measures can often provide a clearer picture of your impact and ensure you are moving along the RIGHT path towards your own goals and vision - not what others are dictating.

• Welcome Feedback

Use feedback as a tool for growth. Constructive criticism can help you refine your approach and better meet the needs of your audience. Embrace feedback as an opportunity to enhance your value rather than a reflection of your self-worth.

In Conclusion

The journey from validation to value has been a true game-changer for my personal brand. It has allowed me to focus on what truly matters - making a difference and building authentic connections. I challenge you to now consider this shift in perspective and see how it can enhance your LinkedIn strategy.

I hope these tips help you on your journey. If you found this newsletter valuable, let’s continue the conversation! Share your thoughts, experiences, or any questions you have in the comments. I’m here to support you every step of the way.

Stay f*cking awesome and stay authentic!

Cheers

Sharon x

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