We all know someone who posts irrelevant content daily on LinkedIn. It can be annoying, but unfollowing might not be an option. As recruiters or hiring managers, we are likely not considering that person as a candidate.
Knowing when to speak up and when to remain silent can significantly impact your professional reputation. Here are several scenarios where discretion might be the better part of valor on LinkedIn.
- Sensitive Company Information: If you are privy to sensitive information about your company—such as upcoming mergers, acquisitions, or layoffs—sharing this information on LinkedIn can have severe repercussions. Even hinting at such details can violate confidentiality agreements and damage trust with your employer. It is best to keep such matters under wraps until they are publicly announced.
- Venting Frustrations: Venting frustrations about your job, managers, or coworkers on LinkedIn is seldom a good idea. While it may provide momentary relief, it can harm your reputation and future job prospects. Potential employers might view such posts as a sign of unprofessionalism and a lack of discretion. If you need to vent, do so in a private setting, not on a public platform.
- Discussing Polarizing Topics: LinkedIn is primarily a professional networking site, and discussing polarizing topics such as politics or religion can alienate some of your connections. While it is important to be authentic and true to your beliefs, consider whether LinkedIn is the appropriate venue. Thought-provoking discussions may be better suited to other social media platforms where personal expression is more the norm.
- Sharing Unverified Information: Sharing unverified rumors or news can quickly erode your credibility. Before posting, consider the source and ensure the information is accurate and relevant to your professional network. Sharing false or misleading information can not only damage your reputation but also affect others who rely on your posts.
- Overdoing Self-Promotion: While sharing your accomplishments is part of building your personal brand, overdoing it can backfire. Constant self-promotion might come across as boastful and can be off-putting to your connections. Balance is key; highlight your achievements but also share industry insights, celebrate others’ successes, and contribute to meaningful discussions.
- Job Search Activities: If you are currently employed and searching for a new job, be cautious about broadcasting your job search activities on LinkedIn. Updates indicating you are actively looking can alert your current employer before you are ready to make a move. Instead, use direct messages and email to communicate with potential employers until you are ready to make your search public.
- Emotional Responses: Social media can sometimes be a breeding ground for emotional responses, especially in reaction to contentious posts or comments. Responding when you are angry or upset can lead to regrettable posts that do not reflect well on your professionalism. Taking a moment to cool down and respond thoughtfully—or choosing not to respond at all—can save face.
- Oversharing Personal Details: While it is wonderful to share personal milestones on LinkedIn, such as earning a new certification or starting a professional blog, oversharing intimate personal details is not advisable. LinkedIn is not Facebook; maintaining a boundary between your personal and professional life on this platform helps keep the focus on your career.
Knowing when to remain quiet on LinkedIn can be just as important as knowing when to speak up. By exercising restraint in these scenarios, you maintain your professional credibility and foster a positive online presence. LinkedIn is a powerful tool for building your career, but like any tool, it should be used wisely.