How Developers Should Not Use LinkedIn
In today's digital age, LinkedIn has become a crucial platform for professional networking and career growth. However, not all content on LinkedIn is beneficial for developers looking to expand their knowledge and skills. In this blog post, we discuss how developers can make the most out of LinkedIn by curating their feed, engaging with valuable content, and contributing meaningful insights to the community.
I may not be the most prominent developer or an avid LinkedIn user, but whenever I open LinkedIn, I often encounter motivational videos and messages that resemble old WhatsApp forwards. Many posts seem repetitive, with users sharing content primarily to gain reach and followers. While there's nothing inherently wrong with wanting to grow one's network, how can developers genuinely grow on LinkedIn?
Curate Your Feed
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Follow Quality Content Creators: Start by following individuals and companies that consistently post valuable content related to system design, programming, and technology. For example:
- Simform: Known for sharing insightful articles and resources on software development and system design.
- Bytego: Provides simplified explanations of complex topics, making them easier to understand.
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Manage Your Feed: If you come across posts that don't provide value or are irrelevant, click on the three dots above the post and select "Not Interested." This will help tailor your feed to show more relevant content.
Engage with Valuable Content
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Like and Share Useful Posts: Engage with content that you find helpful by liking and sharing it. This not only supports the content creator but also helps improve your feed's relevance.
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Comment and Contribute: If you have additional information or insights on a post, don't hesitate to comment. Adding value to discussions can enhance your visibility and reputation within the community.
Create and Share Your Own Content
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Post Useful Information: Share your knowledge and experiences by creating posts that provide value to others. Whether it's a deep dive into a technical topic or a tutorial, your contributions can benefit the community.
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Link to Detailed Posts: If you have more in-depth information on a topic, create a detailed post on your profile and then comment on the original post with a link to your content. For example, add a caption like "In-depth Info" to guide readers to your detailed post. This approach helps you share your expertise while making LinkedIn a more informative and less cluttered space.
Maintain a Balance
While humorous and motivational content can be a good break, it's essential to maintain a balance. Use LinkedIn primarily for professional growth and knowledge sharing, and keep lighter content to a minimum.
Conclusion
By curating your feed, engaging with valuable content, and sharing your insights, you can make LinkedIn a powerful tool for professional development. Let's strive to make LinkedIn a less toxic and more enriching platform for everyone in the tech community.