The LinkedIn Algorithm

Hello Professionals!

Today, let’s break down something that might sound technical but is actually really interesting: The LinkedIn Algorithm.

I believe you’ve heard about this term, and you might be thinking, “What’s that? Why does it matter to me?”

It’s actually simple. If you want your LinkedIn posts to be seen, liked, and shared by more people, understanding the algorithm is key. It’s like learning the “rules of the game.”

What is an algorithm?

An algorithm is like a set of instructions or rules a platform (like LinkedIn) follows to decide what content people see. Let’s consider it as your favorite music app. It suggests songs based on what you’ve listened to, liked, or saved before. The LinkedIn algorithm works the same way, except it decides which posts pop up on people’s feeds.

How does the LinkedIn algorithm work?

LinkedIn’s goal is to show you relevant, high-quality content that keeps you engaged. Here’s a step-by-step look at what happens when you hit “Post”:

The Quick Check (Content Filter):

When you post, LinkedIn quickly checks your content.

It decides if your post is spam, low quality, or high quality.

If it passes the check (of which most do), it gets shown to a small number of your connections.

The Engagement Test:

LinkedIn then watches how people interact with your post.

If people like, comment, or share your content within the first few hours, the algorithm says, “This post is interesting” and starts showing it to more people.

Same way if no one engages, LinkedIn shows it to fewer people.

The Snowball Effect:

If your connections engage with your post, it starts appearing on their networks’ feeds, too.

This creates a “snowball effect,” where one good post can reach thousands of people—even those you don’t know yet.

Dwell Time Matters:

LinkedIn tracks how long people spend on your post. If someone reads your post fully, pauses to think, or interacts with it, LinkedIn sees that as a good sign.

That’s why writing meaningful, engaging posts works better than rushing through short updates.

What does LinkedIn want you to do?

Now that you know how the algorithm works, here’s what LinkedIn is expecting from you:

Quality Content:

Share valuable posts that teach, inspire, or tell stories.

Add personal experiences, reflections, or advice—people will connect with you.

Start Conversations:

The algorithm loves posts that get comments.

End your posts with a question to encourage people to reply. Example: “Have you had a similar experience?”

Be Consistent:

Posting regularly—even once or twice a week—helps LinkedIn trust you.

It’s like showing up in class every day—you become familiar and reliable.

Engage With Others:

Don’t just post—comment on your connection's posts.

The more you engage; the more people will engage with your content.

Use the First Few Hours Wisely:

The first 1-2 hours after you post are super important. Share your post when your audience is most active.

“Beat” the Algorithm

Write posts that grab attention in the first line (this is called the hook). Example: “I failed my first internship interview. Here’s what I learned.”

Use photos, videos, or documents—they get more engagement.

Reply to comments quickly. The more you interact; the more LinkedIn pushes your post.

Why does this matter for students?

If you understand LinkedIn’s algorithm, you can:

Make your posts reach more professionals, recruiters, and peers.

Build your personal brand—people will start noticing you.

Increase opportunities for networking, internships, and jobs.

One post about a project, internship, or experience could be seen by the hiring manager of your dream company. That’s the power of LinkedIn.

Give the LinkedIn Algorithm what it likes: thoughtful, engaging, and valuable content. Learn what works, and soon, you’ll master the art of showing up and standing out.