How to write a LinkedIn post people actually read
LinkedIn rewards posts that start a conversation. Most posts fail in the first line: they announce instead of hooking. Here’s a structure that works for founders, freelancers and companies.
The structure
- The hook: one short line with a tension, a number or a surprising fact
- The context: two or three lines on the situation
- The story or the lesson: what happened, what you learned
- The takeaway: one sentence people can reuse
- The question: an invitation to reply, specific enough to answer
Write like you talk
Short paragraphs, plain words, one idea per post. Cut jargon and corporate phrases. If you wouldn’t say it out loud to a client, don’t post it.
Mistakes to avoid
- Starting with “I’m thrilled to announce”
- Ten hashtags at the end: three is plenty
- Posting and disappearing: answer comments in the first hours
- Only talking about yourself: share what others can use
Frequently asked questions
How long should a LinkedIn post be?
Long enough to tell one idea well. Most good posts are 600 to 1,300 characters, but clarity matters more than length.