Remember 2017? Fidget spinners were everywhere, and we were sharing what NOT to do on LinkedIn along with a few tips on promoting your business there. Well, a lot has changed since then. Like, a lot.
Today, LinkedIn has more than 1.3 billion members. It’s not just an online resume anymore. It’s where your future clients check you out before they ever pick up the phone. So, we gave our old advice a makeover.
What’s Changed on LinkedIn Since 2017
- Conversations beat likes. A quick thumbs-up doesn’t cut it anymore. LinkedIn rewards posts that get people talking, saving, and sharing.
- Video is having a moment. Video views jumped 36% in just one year. Short clips uploaded right to LinkedIn get the most love (save the links- more on this below).
- The real you wins. The feed is flooded with AI-written fluff. Your actual know-how is what makes people stop scrolling. Maybe even share personal stories- crazy, right?
- People beat logos. Posts from owners and employees reach way more people than company page posts alone.
- Links get less love. LinkedIn wants people to stick around, so share the good stuff in the post and drop links in the comments.
- More ways to shine. Newsletters, carousel posts, LinkedIn Live, and events are now some of the most useful tools on the platform.
How to Use LinkedIn to Grow Your Business in 2026
Build (or Refresh) Your Company Page
Just like in 2017, you need both a personal profile and a company page. Fill out every section, tell people exactly who you help, and connect your team to the page. Haven’t touched yours since you set it up? No judgment, but yes – maybe some judgment. Time to refresh.
Post Consistently, and Make It Helpful
Our golden rule still stands: you’re there to help, not to brag. Keep about 80% of your posts helpful and only 20% about you. Mix in short videos, swipeable carousel posts, and quick takes on industry news. Consistency beats going viral once, every damn time.
Put Real People Out Front
Your company page is home base, but your team is your megaphone (HOLLA!). Encourage owners and employees to post, share, and cheer each other on from their own profiles. People connect with people.
Engage Where the Conversations Are
In 2017, we told you to join Groups. These days, the real magic happens in the comments. Leave thought-provoking comments on posts from clients, industry leaders, and prospects. Answer questions. Offer advice. And remember, it’s not all about you….
Ask For (and Give!) Recommendations
Nothing sells you like a happy client. Written recs prove you deliver on your promises. The easiest way to get one? Give one first, then ask them to return the favor.
Why Being Present Matters
Here’s the deal: before anyone hires or refers you to others, they’re going to look you up on LinkedIn. Will they find a dusty page, or a business that clearly knows its stuff? Being present builds credibility. Being active builds trust, keeps you top of mind, and opens doors. And since only a small slice of members post regularly, just showing up puts you ahead of the pack.
We Can Help You Show Up on LinkedIn
At 8THIRTYFOUR, our philosophy is simple: We put you first. We know you’re busy running a business, and LinkedIn can feel like one more thing on an already jam-packed list. Whether you need a page refresh, a content plan, posts and videos, or someone to handle it all, we’ve got you. Wondering if LinkedIn is right for your business? Give us a call!


