It’s important that you engage (comment, “like”, and share) other peoples posts on LinkedIn. It’s also important that you post valuable and helpful content. We all know this. But what about showing some personality too? A dash of personality gives a pulse to your professional persona on LinkedIn – it humanizes you. Don’t underestimate the value of “personality” posts. These types of posts share insights into you as a person. Commenting on films, books, music, news, charities, quotes, local events and the like, or sharing your know-how on hobbies or interests, can round out a 1st degree connection’s image of you—and their propensity to reach out to you for advice.
It’s okay to make personal posts on occasion as long as you remain professional. While that may seem like contradicting advice – “be personal but stay professional” - we mean keep in mind the culture of LinkedIn. Most people use LinkedIn for professional development. For example, don’t post a picture of you partying on your new boat (save that for Facebook if you dare), instead post some of your favorite inspirational business quotes. See the difference?
Look for ways to make your connections laugh, smile, or be inspired. People love to engage with personal posts. Below are a few examples of advisors posting inspiring, humorous and other personal posts. Check out the engagement on the last one!
You don’t want all of your posts to be funny quotes or personal thoughts – after all, you want to be seen as a thought leader for financial services. But personality based posts do help drive engagement and give insights into you as a person. Look to sprinkle in one or two personality posts a week.
Kevin Nichols is a thought-leader with The Oechsli Institute, a firm that specializes in research and training for the financial services industry. @KevinANichols www.oechsli.com