You don’t need to go viral or have a massive following to stand out on LinkedIn. The real key? Sharing your authentic knowledge and experiences.
When I was invited to join LinkedIn’s Top Voices program, it caught me off guard. I’m a university professor, not a celebrity or full-time content creator. My posts aren’t daily, and I don’t obsess over algorithms. I simply share what I know and what I’ve lived.
Many professionals believe that recognition like this is only for those with huge audiences or carefully crafted personal brands. That’s not true. In 2025, visibility on LinkedIn is about showing up with consistency, credibility, and a genuine voice.
Post Less, But Make Each One Count
You don’t have to post every day. I don’t. Once a week is enough—if your content brings real value. I focus on sharing insights from my research, lessons from leadership, or real-world experiences that others can relate to or learn from.
Consistency helps, but so does mixing up your formats. Sometimes I write a short reflection, other times I share a photo or a quick video. Visuals can make your message more relatable, especially when they’re tied to a real story or question.
You Don’t Need a Huge Audience
When LinkedIn reached out to me, I had just over 6,000 followers. There’s no application form—LinkedIn notices people who spark meaningful conversations, not just those who make the most noise.
Forget the “Personal Brand”—Share Your Perspective
You don’t need to build a brand or chase “thought leader” status. Start with your point of view. I write about leadership, workplace culture, and inclusion, shaped by both research and lived experience. What matters most is your angle: What are you seeing that others aren’t? What unique perspective do you bring?
You don’t have to be a founder or executive to be credible. Speak clearly and with purpose, and make sure your profile reflects your expertise. A sharp headline and bio make it easier for others to find and engage with you.
Don’t Just Broadcast—Engage
Some of the most influential LinkedIn voices don’t have huge audiences, but they consistently show up in the comments, ask thoughtful questions, and support others’ work.
You don’t have to start by posting. Begin by engaging: leave meaningful comments, share others’ insights with your own take, and join conversations that matter to you. I try to engage a few times a week, even when I’m not posting. The best content often lives in the comments.
Share Real Stories, Not Rehearsed Ones
My most impactful posts haven’t been carefully crafted arguments—they’ve been honest reflections. Whether it’s about leadership mistakes, balancing work and parenthood, or being the only person of a certain background in the room, authenticity connects.
For example, I’ve shared stories about my family—my wife, our children, and how their experiences shape my views on belonging and leadership. One post about a family trip to Disney World, discussing identity and representation, wasn’t planned to “perform”—it was just honest, and it resonated.
Professionalism today doesn’t mean hiding the personal. In fact, that’s where trust begins. If you pair a meaningful story with a strong image, it can reach further, but it needs to serve more than just you. If it speaks to something others are feeling, that’s when it spreads.
Focus on Impact, Not Badges
Becoming a Top Voice is an honor, but it shouldn’t be the goal. The real reward is when someone tells you your post helped them, whether it’s asking for a raise, handling a tough conversation, or feeling less alone at work.
If you chase recognition, your content may feel forced. If you aim to help others, you’ll build a platform that matters—whether or not you get a badge. Pay attention to what sparks real conversations and connections; those are the metrics that count.
If you’re unsure what to post, ask yourself:
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What do I wish more people were honest about in my industry?
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What do I wish I’d known five years ago?
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What small story says something bigger?
Start there.
You don’t need a fancy title, a strategy team, or a huge following to become influential on LinkedIn. You need a voice—one that’s grounded in your beliefs and generous in what it shares. Show up consistently, say something real, and join conversations that matter. That’s what gets noticed—and creates lasting value long after the likes fade.