This is something I hear so often.  People say they’d love to share, but they duck out of it because it feels fake and showy-offy for them.  Modest to the core, they think when they go on there, they’re blowing their own trumpet – and that sits really uncomfortably with them. 

I understand that posting on LinkedIn can sometimes feel uncomfortable or inauthentic, especially if you’re not accustomed to sharing professional updates publicly. However, it’s important to recognise that LinkedIn can provide significant value in terms of professional networking, building your business, and showcasing your expertise. Here are a few suggestions to help you overcome those feelings and find a more authentic approach:

1. Share Valuable Content: Instead of focusing on self-promotion, aim to provide valuable and helpful content to your connections. Share industry insights, interesting articles, thought-provoking questions, or tips that can benefit others. By focusing on providing value to your network, you’ll feel more genuine in your posts.

2. Be Authentic: Share your personal experiences, challenges, and lessons learned. Authenticity resonates with people, and by sharing your journey, you can create meaningful connections with others who may be going through similar experiences.

3. Engage in Conversations: LinkedIn isn’t just about broadcasting your own content; it’s also about engaging with others. Take the time to read and comment on posts from your connections that interest you. Engaging in conversations and building relationships can help you feel more connected and less self-centered.

4. Start Small: If sharing lengthy posts feels uncomfortable, start with smaller steps. You can begin by commenting on other people’s posts, joining relevant groups and participating in discussions, or sharing short updates that align with your professional interests or achievements.

5. Find Your Unique Voice: Develop a writing style and tone that feels comfy and authentic to you. Write in a way that reflects your personality and values. Your posts should sound like you and resonate with your audience.

6. Prioritize Quality Over Quantity: Although showing up regularly is super-important on LinkedIn, t’s not necessary to post frequently if it doesn’t align with your comfort level. Instead, focus on creating high-quality content that provides value and sparks meaningful conversations. Quality posts will be more impactful than frequent but shallow updates.

Remember, LinkedIn is a professional platform, but that doesn’t mean you have to abandon your authenticity. Finding a balance between professionalism and genuine expression is key to feeling comfortable while still benefiting from the opportunities LinkedIn offers for networking and business development.

How do you feel about posting on LinkedIn?  Are you comfy and confident or does it make you want to run a mile?

Need help?

Would you like help to ‘Get comfy and confident on LinkedIn’ or to ‘Get your website looking and sounding like the real you’? Yes? Then book a chat directly in my diary. That way we can have a virtual coffee together to see if/how I might be able to help you. The call will cost you absolutely nothing, you’ll be under no obligation to do anything further AND I GUARANTEE you’ll get value from our call – otherwise I’ll pick up the tab for the virtual coffees 😂