LinkedIn: Truth vs. Engagement
It's up to you to tell them what they want to hear.
Truth vs. Engagement
What’s true isn’t always what’s engaging, especially on LinkedIn.
Statistically, workers are more productive being in the office than at home. But this is not advice most people want to hear.
Just because the advice is true, or statistically correct doesn’t mean readers will engage with it.
People want to believe that working from home is better in every single aspect, to stay home, have more time to themselves, and save the planet from commuting to work.
The advice that does best is agreeable, reaches a broad audience and makes them feel good about themselves. Ideally, this advice is also truthful to help the reader improve at a skill.
I Don’t Want to Lie.
The good news is you don’t have to. If you strongly believe in what you’re sharing, shout it loud and proud for the world to hear.
But if you believe in something against the majority, accept your engagement will take a hit. This sounds really bad, but you’re speaking from the heart to build a community who agrees with your genuine thoughts.
You can choose to not post on the topic, or share an honest opinion on what you believe in.
What Really Matters.
Talking about something you don’t believe in is not sustainable long term. Be honest with yourself, even if it’s not engaging.
Otherwise, you'll get burnt out and be seen as someone who supports a topic like job hopping, even if you really don’t. (Or supporting company loyalty, even if you don’t).
It’s easier to be known for something that’s true to you, even if it’s not as sexy for the overall audience. It’s true your audience might not be as big if you sided with the majority.
But the audience who sticks around will be the community you love sharing your thoughts with the most.