How the LinkedIn Algorithm Impacts Post Visibility

The LinkedIn algorithm functions as a content gatekeeper, determining which posts appear in users' feeds and how widely they are distributed across the network. Its primary goal is to provide users with a highly relevant and engaging professional experience, prioritizing quality content and meaningful interactions over generic or viral-seeking posts. 

Here's how it works:

1. Initial content assessment

• Upon posting, the algorithm classifies content as spam, low-quality, or high-quality.

• Spam and low-quality content, characterized by poor grammar, irrelevant hashtags, or excessive tagging, face reduced or no visibility. 

2. The "Golden Hour" & engagement testing

• High-quality posts are shown to a small sample of your followers to gauge initial engagement (likes, comments, shares, dwell time).

• Strong engagement during this "golden hour" (typically the first 60 minutes) signals value, leading to broader distribution to your 2^nd and 3^rd degree connections. 

3. Factors influencing ongoing distribution

• Content Relevance: The algorithm assesses how well the post aligns with users' interests, industry, and past interactions.

• Engagement Quality: Thoughtful comments, especially those that spark further discussion, hold more weight than simple likes. Posts that encourage dialogue through questions or calls-to-action are rewarded.

• Connection Strength: Posts from first-degree connections and those with whom a user frequently interacts are prioritized.

• Dwell Time: Posts that capture and retain user attention for longer periods, through engaging visuals or in-depth content, are favored.

• Authenticity and Expertise: LinkedIn rewards original insights, industry trends, and niche expertise over generic or overly promotional content. 

4. Specific actions that impact visibility

• Employee Advocacy: Posts shared by employees (especially with personal commentary) get significantly more reach than those shared only by company pages.

• Native Content: LinkedIn favors content published directly on the platform (text, images, videos, documents, carousels) over posts with external links, which can reduce reach. If linking to external resources, consider placing the link in the comments instead of the post itself.

• Hashtags & Keywords: Strategic use of relevant hashtags (3-5 per post is recommended) and keywords improves discoverability.

• Commenting & Engagement: Actively engaging with others' content through meaningful comments and promptly responding to comments on your own posts can boost your visibility and establish you as a valuable contributor. 

In essence, the LinkedIn algorithm strives to provide a professionally valuable experience. By understanding these influencing factors and tailoring your content strategy to align with them, you can significantly enhance your post visibility and engagement.