Many LinkedIn ‘Top Voices’ are advising people to be hyperactive on LinkedIn. But what kind of LinkedIn use or behavior could be considered disruptive or concerning from the employer’s perspective? How should a preferred employee act on LinkedIn to be positive for both personal and company brand?
Here are some thoughts about the subtle but significant difference between being a LinkedIn Influencer and being a Preferred Employee—and why the two do not always overlap.
The Rise (and fall) of the LinkedIn Influencer
LinkedIn influencers are often characterized by: High posting frequency, Strong personal branding, Bold opinions and thought leadership, large follower counts and engagement metrics.
They are often seen as trendsetters, career coaches, or industry commentators. Their content is designed to attract attention, spark discussion, and build a personal brand that transcends their current role or employer.
But here is the catch: not all employers appreciate this level of visibility, especially if the content overshadows the company’s brand, reveals internal dynamics, or creates reputational risk.
What Employers Might Find Concerning
From an employer’s perspective, LinkedIn behavior can become problematic when it diverts attention from team efforts to individual glory, reveals confidential or sensitive information, criticizes industry peers or competitors, signals job hunting or dissatisfaction, creates a mismatch between personal and company values.
Even well-intentioned posts can raise eyebrows if they seem self-promotional at the expense of the organization.
The Preferred Employee on LinkedIn is someone who builds a professional presence that aligns with company values, amplifies the employer brand through thoughtful engagement, shares insights that reflect positively on their team and projects, supports colleagues and celebrates collective achievements and uses LinkedIn as a platform for learning, not just broadcasting.
They may not post daily or chase virality, but their presence is trusted, respected, and welcomed—both internally and externally.
Striking the Balance
You do not have to choose between being visible and being valued. The key is intentionality:
- Ask yourself: Is this post helpful, respectful, and aligned with my role?
- Consider how your manager or team might perceive your content.
- Think long-term: Does this build trust with both my network and my employer?
Being a LinkedIn influencer can open doors. But being a preferred employee keeps them open.
The most impactful professionals are those who manage to build a strong personal brand while reinforcing the credibility of their organization.
So, before you hit “Post,” ask yourself: Am I influencing for attention, or contributing with intention?
At least DO NOT pretend to be an influencer if you are not one in real life.