Understanding LinkedIn Hashtags
LinkedIn, known for its application in professional networking, job hunting, and career building, is incorporating the power of hashtags. Originally popularized by Twitter, hashtags — a word or phrase following the hashtag symbol (#) — have spread across various social media platforms, now including LinkedIn. On LinkedIn, like other platforms, hashtags create links to a list of posts that share the same hashtag. This means when a user tags their post with a specific hashtag, it can be discovered by others searching for that topic. The ultimate goal is to boost visibility and engagement by reaching a broader audience beyond direct connections.
The Power of LinkedIn Hashtags
Hashtags are an integral part of digital language, crucial tools that leverage the power of social media for broader reach. On LinkedIn, hashtags offer compelling benefits for both businesses and individuals seeking to enhance their online presence. When chosen and used strategically, they can significantly impact the visibility of your posts, articles, and even your company page.
Here’s how LinkedIn hashtags can revamp your performance on the platform:
1. Increase Content Visibility: When you incorporate relevant hashtags in your updates or articles, your content can be discovered by users following or searching for those hashtags, beyond just your connections. It increases the chance of your content being found.
2. Establish Thought Leadership: Hashtags allow you to contribute to a larger conversation on a particular topic. By consistently posting content under specific hashtags that align with your expertise, your regular insights and discussions can help you get recognized as a thought leader in that field.
3. Stay Up-to-Date: Following hashtags that are relevant to your industry or job role keeps you informed about the latest trends, ideas, and discussions in your area. It allows you to stay updated, find inspiration, or even engage with others in your field.
4. Targeted Networking: Strategically using hashtags can help you connect and engage with professionals interested in similar areas as you. It enables targeted networking and opens opportunities for new connections, collaborations, or even job leads.
How to Use LinkedIn Hashtags Effectively
If you’re new to using LinkedIn hashtags or not quite sure if you’re using them effectively, here are some tips to navigate, choose, and use hashtags strategically:
Adding Hashtags to LinkedIn Posts: You can add hashtags anywhere in your post – either incorporate it within the body of the post or add it at the end. LinkedIn often suggests a list of hashtags as you start typing with ‘#’ based on the popularity and relevance of your content.
Choosing Relevant Hashtags: Choose hashtags that are not too broad or too niche. If your hashtag is very broad, your post might get lost among a large number of posts. If it’s too niche, it may not be followed or searched by enough people. Choose something relevant and directly related to your content.
Number of Hashtags: Unlike Instagram where you can use numerous hashtags, LinkedIn posts tend to perform better with fewer, more targeted hashtags. LinkedIn itself recommends using no more than three hashtags per post.
Follow Hashtags: You can follow hashtags that interest you. By following a hashtag, you will see updates on your feed from anyone who includes that hashtag in their posts, not just your connections.
Test and Analyze: Like any other social media strategy, it’s important to test different hashtags and analyze their performance. Note which hashtags are increasing your post visibility and engagement, and refine your strategy accordingly.
Hashtags on LinkedIn are much more than just a social media trend. As professionals and businesses on LinkedIn try to navigate through the noise, these powerful tools can effectively enhance visibility, engagement, and networking opportunities. Optimal utilization of LinkedIn hashtags requires strategic thought, careful selection, and a user-focused approach. Using hashtags should be an essential part of your LinkedIn game plan. Happy hashtagging on LinkedIn!