LinkedIn isn’t just a networking platform—it’s the internet’s watercooler for professionals. But recently, it’s turned into a stickler for “stay-home” content, and by that, we mean native content. If you’ve noticed your posts with external links sinking faster than a lead balloon, you’re not imagining things. LinkedIn’s algorithm now slaps penalties on outbound links, slashing their reach by a brutal 25-35%. Let’s unpack why this is happening and, more importantly, how you can work around it without sacrificing your audience or your sanity.
Why is LinkedIn So Allergic to Links?
LinkedIn’s mission is simple: keep users scrolling and clicking without leaving the platform. Posts with external links are like party invitations to leave LinkedIn’s gathering, and frankly, LinkedIn isn’t cool with you ghosting the event. According to recent studies, linkless posts outperform linked ones by a whopping 6x in reach, and they see 18x more comments. Think about it: fewer links mean more conversations and impressions. So, the algorithm now gives native content a big thumbs-up while sending linked posts to the back of the line.
But here’s the kicker—this doesn’t mean you can’t share links at all. You just have to get crafty about it.
Links Belong in the Comments—Not Your Post
Think of LinkedIn posts as the main course at a fancy dinner. Nobody wants the dessert to steal the spotlight. The same rule applies to links—keep them out of the main post and place them in the comments instead. Why? Because LinkedIn doesn’t treat this approach as an “offense.” It’s like sneaking snacks into a movie theater: technically not kosher, but still effective.
For example, instead of saying:
“Check out my latest blog post: [insert link].”
Try:
“I just wrote about this fascinating topic! I’ve added the link in the comments below—feel free to check it out.”
Not only will your post look cleaner, but the algorithm will smile upon your cleverness.
Native Content is Your New Best Friend
What’s native content? It’s content that lives happily on LinkedIn without needing external life support. This could mean crafting compelling posts, sharing industry insights, or posting a quick tip video.
For instance, you could say:
“The 3 biggest mistakes people make on LinkedIn:
- Posting too many links.
- Ignoring comments.
- Writing posts longer than Tolstoy’s novels.
Which one are you guilty of?”
This approach sparks engagement, encourages conversation, and keeps your audience on LinkedIn—exactly what the platform loves. Bonus points if your posts are witty, relatable, and a little spicy.
Automated Posts Are Out, Manual Posts Are In
Here’s a fun fact: LinkedIn can tell when you’re phoning it in with automated content. Scheduled posts, especially ones with links, are red flags for the algorithm. Think of it like a badly done karaoke performance—it lacks authenticity and nobody’s clapping.
Manually posting your content might take a bit more effort, but it screams authenticity. Plus, LinkedIn rewards genuine effort. If you want your posts to soar, put in the elbow grease and hit “publish” yourself. Trust us, your engagement stats will thank you.
Play the Algorithm’s Game with Timely Engagement
LinkedIn’s algorithm is like a hyperactive toddler—it thrives on immediate attention. Your post’s first hour is critical. The more engagement (comments, reactions, etc.) you get during this window, the more LinkedIn will push your post to the top of your network’s feeds.
So, how do you hack this? Encourage your colleagues or friends to drop a quick comment or share. Even a simple, “Great point!” or “Totally agree!” can give your post a much-needed boost.
Visuals and Questions Work Like Magic
Posts with eye-catching visuals or open-ended questions perform exceptionally well. Why? Because they stop the scroll. A snappy graphic or a provocative question can work wonders for engagement.
Try asking:
“Do you think LinkedIn’s link penalties are fair, or are they a bit much? Share your thoughts!”
Not only does this spark discussion, but it also positions you as someone genuinely interested in what your audience has to say.
Final Thoughts from Umbrella Local: Adapt and Thrive
Change is LinkedIn’s middle name, and marketers have to adapt constantly. By focusing on native, authentic content and avoiding outbound link penalties, you’ll not only stay in the algorithm’s good books but also build stronger, more meaningful connections with your audience.
Think of it this way: LinkedIn isn’t just penalizing links—it’s pushing us all to be more creative, engaging, and human in our content. And really, isn’t that what social media is supposed to be about? So, what’s your take? Have you experimented with link-free posts? If not, now’s the time to start. Your reach (and your audience) will thank you.
Ready to take your LinkedIn content up several notches? To schedule a free consultation with an Umbrella Local Expert to discuss current content trends and how to update your LinkedIn strategy, contact us through the Umbrella Local website or call us at (646) 440-1426.
