It’s no secret that LinkedIn has long been the go-to platform for professionals looking to network and expand their careers. But lately, this social media giant has been undergoing a transformation of sorts. With more and more members sharing personal stories and thoughts, LinkedIn is no longer just the place to post your CV and industry news. But what sparked this shift? And what does it mean for small business owners who use LinkedIn to connect with potential clients and partners?
In this article, we’ll explore how the pandemic, Zoom meetings, and a growing desire for authenticity in professional settings have all contributed to this new trend of “getting personal” on LinkedIn.
Showcasing skills
For many years, LinkedIn has been viewed as a place to showcase one’s professional skills and accomplishments. The platform serves as a digital CV, allowing members to highlight their careers and connect with others in their industry. It wasn’t entirely uncommon to see articles and posts related to industry trends and business best practices, but personal stories were few and far between.
However, in recent times, that has changed. The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent shift to remote work created a sense of isolation for many people. Face-to-face interactions were replaced with Zoom calls, which can often feel impersonal and disconnected. Many LinkedIn members began to use the platform as a way to share their personal experiences and connect with others on a more emotional level.
Be authentic
The desire for authenticity in professional settings has been growing for some time. In a world where social media filters and staged Instagram photos dominate our feeds, LinkedIn members have been seeking out more genuine and relatable content. Personal stories that touch on topics like mental health, work-life balance, and career setbacks have all become more common on the platform.
But should these personal posts be restricted to Facebook or Instagram? Many argue that LinkedIn is not the place for such content, and that personal stories do not belong in a professional setting.
However, there is evidence to suggest that sharing personal stories on LinkedIn can actually be beneficial. For one, it allows small business owners to connect with potential clients on a more direct and personal level. When clients feel that they know and trust a business owner, they are more likely to work with them.
Sharing personal stories can help establish a business owner’s brand and position themselves as an expert in their industry. By sharing insights gained from personal experiences, business owners can demonstrate leadership and a unique perspective that sets them apart from competitors.
One of the significant advantages of sharing personal stories on LinkedIn is the increased visibility that comes with it. The LinkedIn algorithm prioritises content that generates engagement, meaning posts that spark discussion or elicit an emotional response from others. Personal stories often fall into this category, as they tend to resonate with others on a deeper level.
Connecting on a personal level
The landscape of LinkedIn has undergone a significant shift in recent years, and personal posts are becoming increasingly common. While some may argue that such content belongs on Facebook, there are several benefits to sharing personal stories on LinkedIn, especially for small business owners.
By connecting with potential clients on a more personal level, establishing brand, and increasing visibility, business owners can leverage the power of the platform to help grow their businesses. As we continue to adapt with hybrid/remote work and seek out genuine connections in our professional lives, it’s likely that this trend of “getting personal” on LinkedIn will continue to grow.