In LinkedIn, there is much buzz around cracking the so-called “algorithm.”
Many professionals and marketers are constantly looking for strategies to stay ahead of the curve and boost their visibility.
However, here’s the truth—the idea of a single LinkedIn algorithm is a myth.
In reality, LinkedIn operates on a complex ecosystem of twelve different algorithms that adapt and change every sixty minutes. If that sounds overwhelming, don’t worry.
This newsletter is here to simplify these truths and, more importantly, guide you toward what works on LinkedIn: creating value-driven content and engaging authentically with your network.
Let’s dive deep into the inner workings of LinkedIn’s algorithm, debunk some common myths, and arm you with actionable strategies to thrive on this platform.
By the end of this newsletter, you’ll know not only why the algorithm changes so often but also why focusing on adding value is the ultimate key to success.
Understanding LinkedIn’s 12 Algorithms
LinkedIn doesn’t rely on a single algorithm to curate your feed. Instead, it utilizes twelve different algorithms, each responsible for a specific aspect of the platform.
These algorithms work together to determine what content gets shown to whom, how often, and in what order.
Here are the key areas these algorithms influence:
- Relevance Matching: Ensures that content matches the interests of users.
- Engagement Prediction: Predicts how likely a post is to receive likes, comments, and shares.
- Connection Strength: Evaluates the relationship between the content creator and the viewer.
- Recency of Content: Prioritizes newer posts over older ones.
- Dwell Time Measurement: Tracks how long users spend engaging with specific content.
- Content Type Sorting: Balances text, images, videos, and links.
- Spam Filtering: Removes low-quality, overly promotional, or irrelevant content.
- Professional Relevance: Focuses on content related to industries and job functions.
- Network Density: Highlights posts that are trending within a user’s extended network.
- Hashtag Optimization: Analyzes the effectiveness of hashtags.
- Quality Signals: Rates the quality of posts based on factors like grammar, structure, and intent.
- Ad Performance Tracking: Ensures sponsored posts align with organic content performance.
The interplay of these algorithms ensures that every user’s feed is unique, and tailored to their preferences, behaviors, and connections.
Why LinkedIn’s Algorithm Changes Every 60 Minutes
The 60-minute refresh cycle is LinkedIn’s way of ensuring that users always see the most relevant and fresh content.
Think of it as LinkedIn recalibrating its content radar every hour.
Here’s why this happens:
- User Behavior: People are constantly connecting, liking, commenting, and sharing. The platform needs to adjust in real time to reflect these changes.
- Content Volume: With millions of posts going live every day, LinkedIn’s algorithms must constantly shuffle and prioritize content to avoid overwhelming users.
- Engagement Trends: Posts that gain traction quickly can be amplified, while those that don’t resonate might get deprioritized.
For content creators, this means that timing matters, but it’s not everything. The quality and relevance of your content will always outweigh the precise moment you hit “post.”
Focus on Value-Added Content: The Real Secret
So, what’s the takeaway?
If the algorithms are this complex and ever-changing, how can you possibly “beat” them?
The answer is simple: You don’t.
Instead of chasing the algorithm, focus on creating value for your audience.
Here are the three pillars of value-added content:
1. Educate Your Audience
People come to LinkedIn to learn.
Whether it’s an industry insight, a step-by-step tutorial, or a thought-provoking perspective, educational content performs exceptionally well.
Actionable tips, data-backed insights, and practical takeaways are what users crave.
2. Inspire and Motivate
LinkedIn is not just about professional growth; it’s also a platform for personal development.
Sharing your business story, business lessons learned, or a motivational message can inspire others and foster engagement
3. Foster Genuine Connections
Engagement is not a one-way street.
When you interact with your audience through comments, direct messages, and shared posts, you’re building authentic relationships.
This not only boosts your visibility but also strengthens your personal brand.
Visualizing the Data: Why Value-Added Content Wins
To better understand why focusing on value-added content is the ultimate strategy, let’s look at some data visualizations:
1. Engagement Rates by Content Type
This chart shows that educational and inspirational posts drive the most engagement. Users appreciate content that teaches or uplifts them, while overly promotional posts tend to fall flat.
2. Impact of Dwell Time on Visibility
This graph highlights why creating engaging content that holds the audience’s attention is crucial. Posts with higher dwell times are more likely to be amplified by LinkedIn’s algorithms.
3. The Power of Network Engagement
Comments and shares carry more weight than likes and views. This is why encouraging discussions and sharing value-driven posts is so effective.
Actionable Tips to Maximize LinkedIn Success
Here are five strategies you can implement right now to optimize your LinkedIn presence:
- Post Consistently: Aim for 2-3 high-quality posts per week. Consistency keeps you top of mind without overwhelming your audience.
- Leverage Hashtags Wisely: Use 3 relevant hashtags to increase your post’s discoverability.
- Engage Authentically: Spend at least 15 minutes daily engaging with your network’s posts. Leave thoughtful comments and start meaningful conversations.
- Experiment with Formats: Try different content formats, such as text posts, videos, and slideshows, to see what resonates best with your audience.
- Use Analytics: Regularly review your post analytics to identify what’s working and refine your strategy.
Focus on What Matters
LinkedIn’s algorithms will continue to evolve, and trying to “hack” the system will only leave you frustrated.
Instead, focus your energy on what truly matters: creating value for your audience and fostering genuine connections.
By doing this, you’ll naturally align with LinkedIn’s goals of building a professional and engaging community.
So, here’s your challenge: Start thinking less about the algorithm and more about how you can make an impact.
What valuable insight or perspective can you share today? What connection can you nurture?
Let’s create value together.
If you found this newsletter helpful, share it with your network or comment below with your thoughts.
Your engagement helps spread the word and supports others in navigating LinkedIn effectively.
Join The LinkedIn Leads for Life Facebook Group Here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/284573162152150. It is a community of support, tips, and more for generating leads using LinkedIn!