I uncover the patterns behind viral LinkedIn posts, so your content gets noticed.

In this issue, you’ll find:

• Why copying winners fails (survivorship bias and the 10 hidden factors you can’t see)

• How to steal the principle, not the post (starting with their hooks)

TOGETHER WITH POSTHERO

Grow your audience faster on LinkedIn. With an AI-powered tool that helps you create content and grow on LinkedIn.

• Create high-converting content that helps you grow on LinkedIn

• Create a weekly content in 76 seconds

• AI Voice assistant for creating content in seconds

Try PostHero for free ->

Stop Copying Creators (Why Their Tactics Won’t Work for You)

Let me say something strange for a guy who breaks down top creators’ content.

Stop copying them.

Yes, including the ones I write about. Including Jasmin. Including whoever’s post is going viral in your feed right now.

I know how that sounds coming from me. Analyzing creators is basically what this newsletter was about initially. But here’s the thing I’ve learned from studying them for years:

The people who copy tactics lose.
The people who understand tactics win.

There’s a huge difference between the two. And today I want to show you exactly why lifting someone else’s playbook usually backfires, and what to do instead.

Let’s get into it.

You’re Only Seeing the Winners

Here’s the first problem with copying.

You only ever see the creators who made it.

You see the person with 100K followers sharing “the exact strategy that got me here.” You don’t see the thousand people who ran that identical strategy and got nowhere.

They tried the same thing. It didn’t work. So they quit and disappeared. You never hear from them.

This is survivorship bias. And it wrecks your thinking.

When you copy a winner, you’re assuming their tactic caused their success. But you can’t actually know that. Because you’re not seeing everyone who used the same tactic and failed.

Maybe the tactic worked. Or maybe it was timing. Or luck. Or their audience. Or something they’re not even telling you about.

You’re copying the visible move and assuming it was the cause. Usually, it wasn’t the whole story.

The Stuff You Can’t See

Every tactic works because of context. And most of that context is invisible to you.

When a creator’s post goes viral, you see the post. You don’t see everything underneath it that made it land.

Like what?

Their audience. A post that crushes with a US-based, Gen Z, mobile-scrolling audience might flop with a European, B2B, desktop-reading one. Different people behave differently. Their audience isn’t yours.

Their timing. Being first to a format wins. Being the hundredth copycat loses. The carousel trick that worked in 2023 is dead now. What worked when they did it might be over by the time you copy it.

Their existing trust. A creator with 100K followers can post one line and get 500 comments. Not because the line was genius. Because 100K people already trust them. You post the same line and hear crickets. Same words, totally different result.

Their niche. Advice tailored to a fitness coach won’t map cleanly onto a B2B consultant. The formats, the tone, the topics - all different.

Their story and voice. Often the thing that made a post work was the personal story inside it. That story is theirs. You can’t copy it. And a copied voice always sounds off.

You see a post that worked. You don’t see the ten hidden factors that made it work.

Copy the post, miss the factors, get a different result. Every time.

Why Copying Actually Hurts You

It’s not just that copying doesn’t work. It actively costs you.

You bury your own voice.

When you’re busy imitating someone else, you never develop the thing that would actually make you stand out: you.

Your voice is your edge. Copying trades it away.

You look like a knockoff.

People can tell when you’re doing a discount impression of a bigger creator. It reads as inauthentic. You become “off-brand version of that other person” instead of yourself.

You learn nothing.

This is the real cost. When you copy, you skip the testing. And testing is how you build judgment.

The creators you admire got good by experimenting on their own audience for years. If you just copy their endpoint, you never build that skill. You stay dependent on other people’s playbooks forever.

Copying feels like a shortcut. It’s actually a dead end.

What to Do Instead

So if copying is out, what’s the move?

Learn from creators without imitating them. Here’s how.

Steal the principle, not the post.

This is the whole mindset shift.

Don’t copy what they did. Understand why it worked, then find your own version.

A creator writes a vulnerable “solo dad” post that goes viral. The lesson isn’t “post about being a solo dad.” The lesson is “vulnerability paired with a lesson can perform really well.”

That principle is yours to use. Your vulnerable story will be completely different. But the underlying mechanism is what you’re borrowing, not the words.

Principles transfer. Posts don’t.

Study their hooks above everything else.

If you’re going to obsess over one thing, make it hooks. The hook is where 80% of the battle is won or lost. No matter how good your post is, a weak first line means nobody reads it.

So when a post crushes, zoom in on the first line. Don’t copy the topic. Don’t copy the story. Study the hook itself.

Ask:
Why did this stop me?
Was it a bold claim?
A surprising number? A contradiction? Curiosity? Tension?
Something that made you need to know what came next?

Figure out the mechanism. The exact reason it pulled you in.

Then build your own hook using that same mechanism, for your topic and your niche.

You’re not stealing their hook. You’re learning why it worked and applying that lesson to something only you could write.

Do this enough and you build a mental library of hook types that work. That’s worth infinitely more than copying one viral post.

Treat every tactic as a hypothesis.

When you read advice (mine included), don’t take it as law. Take it as a theory to test.

“Personal stories get more reach” isn’t a rule. It’s a hypothesis. Test it on YOUR audience. See if it’s true for you.

Some things that work for everyone else won’t work for you. Some things nobody talks about will work great for you. You only find out by testing.

Trust your own data over borrowed advice.

Your numbers tell you more than any guru ever will.

Remember: a 200-view post that lands you a client beats a 20,000-view post that gets you nothing. Your data knows your audience. Outside advice doesn’t.

When what you see in your own analytics conflicts with what a creator told you, believe your data.

Give it time.

One test isn’t proof. A single post that flopped doesn’t mean the approach is dead. A single post that hit doesn’t mean you cracked the code.

Look for patterns across many of your own posts. That’s where the real answers are.

The Honest Truth About This Newsletter

So where does that leave you and me?

Keep reading creator breakdowns. Keep reading this newsletter. Keep studying Jasmin and everyone else worth learning from.

But change how you read them.

Don’t read them looking for scripts to run. Read them looking for principles to adapt.

When I break down a creator’s post, the value isn’t “go do exactly this.” The value is “here’s the underlying reason this worked, now go find your version.”

The breakdowns are raw material. You’re the one who has to shape it into something that fits your voice, your niche, your audience.

Advice is a starting point. Never the finish line.

Your audience is the only real judge. Not me. Not Jasmin. Not any creator you admire.

Study everyone. Copy no one. Test everything.

That’s how you actually get good at this.

Your Homework

This week, do this:

1. Find a post from a creator that stopped you cold. Don’t copy it.

2. Zoom in on the hook. Figure out exactly why it worked. What mechanism made you stop?

3. Write your own hook using that same mechanism, for your topic. Different words, same underlying move.

4. Next time you read advice (including mine), ask “is this actually true for MY audience?” Then test it instead of assuming.

5. Check your own data this week. Let it tell you what’s working, not a guru.

The creators you admire didn’t get there by copying.

They got there by understanding.

Now it’s your turn.

That’s it for this week.

If you catch yourself about to copy a creator this week and stop to study the principle instead, reply and tell me what you found. That shift changes everything.

See you next time.

That’s a wrap for today.

See you next week! If you want more LinkedIn tips, be sure to follow me on LinkedIn (link).

If you love this episode and want to support us, spread the word about us by sharing The LinkedIn Secrets with colleagues. I really appreciate it!

Thank you for reading!

What’d you think of today’s edition?

Help me to understand what you think about this episode. Just reply with a number (1, 2, or 3) to this email.

• 1 - Damn good

• 2 - Meh, do better

• 3 - You didn’t cook it

Your compadre,
Anton “LinkedIn growth strategies” Cherkasov

I study viral LinkedIn content, so your posts stand out.

In this issue, you’ll find:

• The exact 30-day plan (one focus per week, no overwhelm)

• What NOT to do in month one (the traps that quietly set beginners back)

TOGETHER WITH POSTHERO

Grow your audience faster on LinkedIn. With an AI-powered tool that helps you create content and grow on LinkedIn.

• Create high-converting content that helps you grow on LinkedIn

• Create a weekly content in 76 seconds

• AI Voice assistant for creating content in seconds

Try PostHero for free ->

The First 30 Days: A LinkedIn Roadmap for Total Beginners

Starting on LinkedIn is overwhelming.

There’s so much advice out there. Post daily. No, don’t post daily. Optimize your profile. Build an offer. Comment more. Send DMs. Write hooks. Batch content.

Where do you even begin?

If you’re new, all of it hits at once. And most people freeze. They read a hundred tips, feel paralyzed, and never actually start.

So today I’m giving you something different.

Not a pile of tips. A plan.

A simple, week-by-week roadmap for your first 30 days. Do this, then that, then the next thing. No guessing.

By the end of the month, you’ll have a solid profile, your first posts, and real momentum.

Let’s build it.

Before You Start: The Right Mindset

Quick note before week 1.

Your first 30 days are not about going viral. They’re not about getting clients. They’re not about big numbers.

They’re about building a foundation and creating habits.

If you expect to blow up in month one, you’ll be disappointed. If you expect to lay groundwork and learn the ropes, you’ll be right on track.

Play for the long game. Month one is just the start.

Okay. Let’s go.

Week 1: Foundation and First Engagement

Week one has two jobs: fix your profile, then start engaging. Don’t post yet.

Posting to a broken profile is like throwing a party at a house with no furniture. People show up, look around, and leave. So we fix the house first.

The good news: your profile only takes a few focused days. Then you spend the rest of the week warming up.

Days 1-3: Fix your profile

Do one chunk per day. No rush.

Day 1 — The top of your profile:

• Photo: clear, friendly, professional. Your face fills most of the frame. Good lighting. No sunglasses, no group shots.

• Banner: not a random landscape. Use it to say what you do and who you help. Add a call to action if you can.

Day 2 — Your words:

• Headline: not just your job title. Use the formula “I help [who] do [what].” Make your ideal reader think “that’s for me.”

• About section: strong first line, your story, what you do and who you help, then a clear next step.

Day 3 — The finishing touches:

• Featured section: add 2-3 items. Best work, a resource, a link. Even if you’re new, add something.

• Clean up the rest: custom URL, a current position that matches what you do, top skills reordered.

Three days. By day 3, your profile is clean and clear.

This is the work everyone skips. Don’t skip it. It makes everything else work better.

Days 4-7: Start engaging

Still not posting. Almost there.

The rest of the week is about warming up and learning how the platform feels. The best way to do that is to comment.

Commenting is lower pressure than posting. But it teaches you everything: what hooks people, what topics land, how conversations work. And it starts getting your name out there.

Your plan for these days:

• Follow 10-15 people. A mix of creators in your niche, peers at your level, and a few ideal clients. Build a feed worth reading.

• Comment daily. Aim for 5 thoughtful comments a day. Not “Great post!” Add something. Share a thought. Ask a question.

• Study what works. Notice which posts grab you. Which hooks made you stop. Save the ones you love. You’re learning the craft by watching.

• Grow your network. Accept relevant connection requests. Send a few of your own.

By Sunday, your profile is solid and you’ve started engaging. You feel the vibe. A few people already recognize your name.

Now you’re ready to post.

Week 2: Start Posting

This is the week you’ve been building toward.

Time to publish. Don’t overthink it. Your first posts won’t be perfect, and that’s completely fine. Nobody’s first posts are good. You improve by doing.

Your plan:

• Post 3 times this week. Monday, Wednesday, Friday works well. Just three. Don’t try to post daily yet.

• Keep the format simple. Stick to beginner-friendly types:

  • A lesson you learned (personal story plus takeaway)

  • A mistake you made and what it taught you

  • A simple tip from your area of expertise

  • Your story: why you do what you do

• Write the hook first. Spend real time on your first line. If it’s boring, nobody reads the rest.

• Stay after you post. Don’t publish and run. Stick around 30 minutes. Reply to every comment.

• Keep commenting. Don’t drop your week-one habit. Keep leaving 5 comments a day on top of your posts.

Your first posts might get low engagement. Totally normal. You’re not judged on results yet. You’re judged on showing up.

You posted. You’re officially in the game.

Week 3: Build the Routine

Now we turn this into something repeatable.

The goal of week three is rhythm. You want habits you can carry forward without thinking about them.

Your plan:

• Keep posting 3x per week. Same as last week. Consistency over intensity.

• Keep commenting daily. 5-10 comments a day. This is your growth engine. Never stop.

• Try batching. Pick one day. Write all 3 of next week’s posts in one sitting. See how much easier it is than scrambling each day.

• Start an idea list. Every time a post idea hits you, write it down. Never stare at a blank page again.

By the end of week three, posting doesn’t feel like a scramble anymore. You have a system feeding it.

Week 4: Lock It In

Final week. Time to make everything stick and learn from your first month.

Your plan:

• Hold your rhythm. Keep posting 3x and commenting daily. This is just who you are now.

• Review your month. Look back at your posts. Which got the most engagement? What topics landed? What felt good to write? Learn from your own data.

• Double down on what worked. Noticed a format or topic that hit? Do more of it next month.

• Keep feeding your idea list. You should always have more ideas than you can post.

By the end of week four, you’re not “trying LinkedIn” anymore. You have a profile that works, a posting rhythm, a commenting habit, an idea system, and data telling you what to do next.

That’s a real foundation. Most people never get this far.

Your 30-Day Recap

Here’s the whole month in one view:

Week 1: Foundation and first engagement. Days 1-3 fix your profile. Days 4-7 follow the right people and start commenting.

Week 2: Start posting. Publish 3 times. Keep it simple. Stay and engage after each one.

Week 3: Build the routine. Keep posting and commenting. Batch your content. Start an idea list.

Week 4: Lock it in. Hold the rhythm. Review your data. Double down on what worked.

One focus per week. No overwhelm.

What NOT to Do in Your First 30 Days

A few traps to avoid.

Don’t chase virality. You’re building a foundation, not swinging for the fences. Viral comes later, if at all.

Don’t buy followers or use pods. Fake growth now creates real problems later. Build real from day one.

Don’t compare yourself to big creators. They’ve been at it for years. You’re on day 3. Different leagues. Run your own race.

Don’t pitch anyone yet. It’s way too early. Build relationships first. Sales come much later.

Don’t quit if week 2 flops. Low engagement early is normal. Everyone starts there. The ones who win are the ones who don’t quit.

The Truth About Month One

Let me be honest with you.

Month one is not glamorous.

You probably won’t get clients. You probably won’t go viral. Your numbers will be small.

And that’s exactly how it’s supposed to be.

You’re planting seeds. Building habits. Learning the craft. Laying a foundation you’ll build on for years.

The people crushing it on LinkedIn today? They all had a messy, quiet, small month one. Every single one of them.

The difference between them and everyone else isn’t talent. It’s that they kept going after month one.

So finish these 30 days. Then keep going.

That’s the whole secret.

Your Homework

This week, do this:

1. If you’re brand new, start with Day 1 today. Just the photo and banner.

2. If you already have a profile, jump to the week that matches where you are.

3. Block 30 minutes a day for LinkedIn. That’s all you need to follow this plan.

4. Follow the roadmap in order. Don’t skip ahead. Each week builds on the last.

5. At the end of 30 days, reply and tell me how it went.

Starting is the hardest part.

This roadmap makes it simple. One week at a time.

That’s it for this week.

If you’re just getting started, reply and let me know. I’d love to cheer you on through your first 30 days.

See you next time.

That’s a wrap for today.

See you next week! If you want more LinkedIn tips, be sure to follow me on LinkedIn (link).

If you love this episode and want to support us, spread the word about us by sharing The LinkedIn Secrets with colleagues. I really appreciate it!

Thank you for reading!

What’d you think of today’s edition?

Help me to understand what you think about this episode. Just reply with a number (1, 2, or 3) to this email.

• 1 - Damn good

• 2 - Meh, do better

• 3 - You didn’t cook it

Your compadre,
Anton “LinkedIn growth strategies” Cherkasov

I analyze what makes LinkedIn posts go viral, so your content gets noticed.

In this issue, you’ll find:

• The 7-step playbook that fits on a sticky note (and the real work hiding under each step)

• Why “hard” is actually the best news you’ll hear about LinkedIn

TOGETHER WITH POSTHERO

Grow your audience faster on LinkedIn. With an AI-powered tool that helps you create content and grow on LinkedIn.

• Create high-converting content that helps you grow on LinkedIn

• Create a weekly content in 76 seconds

• AI Voice assistant for creating content in seconds

Try PostHero for free ->

LinkedIn Is Simple. It’s Just Not Easy.

Here’s a promise you’ve heard a thousand times:

“LinkedIn is easy. Just post consistently and you’ll grow.”

It’s everywhere. Some guru tells you the steps, makes it sound effortless, and you think “okay, I can do that.”

Then you try. And it’s hard. And you get discouraged. And you quit.

Sound familiar?

Here’s what nobody tells you:

LinkedIn is simple. But it’s not easy.

Those are two completely different things. And confusing them is exactly why most people give up.

Let me explain the difference. Because once you get it, you’ll stop feeling like you’re failing.

Simple vs. Easy

These words get used like they mean the same thing. They don’t.

Simple means the steps are clear. Not complicated. Easy to understand.

Easy means it takes little effort. You can do it without much struggle.

Something can be simple and hard at the same time.

Losing weight is simple: eat less, move more. But it’s not easy. If it were, everyone would be in shape.

Building a business is simple: solve a problem people will pay for. But it’s not easy. If it were, everyone would be rich.

LinkedIn is the same.

The steps are simple. Anyone can understand them. But doing them, week after week, for months and years? That’s hard.

And that’s fine. It’s supposed to be.

The “Simple” Version of LinkedIn

Let me give you the whole playbook. The simple version.

Here’s everything you need to do to win on LinkedIn:

1. Show up regularly with posts

2. Comment with a purpose, not just to be seen

3. Improve your writing over time

4. Build something people actually want to buy

5. Move conversations into DMs and onto calls

6. Build a small audience that genuinely trusts you

7. Pick one thing and get known for it

That’s it. That’s the entire game.

Seven things. Clear. Simple. Nothing complicated about any of them.

You could write them on a sticky note.

So why isn’t everyone crushing it?

Because simple doesn’t mean easy.

Let’s look at what each of these actually requires.

What “Simple” Actually Demands

Read the list again. Now look at what’s hiding behind each point.

“Show up regularly with posts”

Simple to say. But it means showing up when you’re tired. When you have no ideas. When the last post flopped. When nobody seems to care. For months before it clicks.

That’s not easy. That’s discipline.

“Improve your writing over time”

Simple to say. But it means writing badly for a long time. Studying what works. Rewriting hooks over and over. Slowly, painfully improving.

That’s not easy. That’s practice.

“Build something people actually want to buy”

Simple to say. But it means getting brutally clear on who you help and how. Testing. Failing. Refining. Positioning yourself in a crowded market.

That’s not easy. That’s thinking hard about hard things.

“Move conversations into DMs and onto calls”

Simple to say. But it means putting yourself out there. Getting ignored. Getting rejected. Having awkward conversations. Doing it anyway.

That’s not easy. That’s courage.

See the pattern?

Every “simple” step hides real work underneath it.

3 Things It All Requires

Every single thing on that list demands three ingredients:

Time. None of this works overnight. It compounds over months and years. You have to keep going long before you see results.

Effort. Real work. Showing up. Doing the reps even when you don’t feel like it. Especially then.

Talent. Not natural-born genius. But skill you build over time. Writing, positioning, selling, connecting. These are learnable, but learning them takes work.

Time, effort, talent.

That’s the price. And there’s no way around paying it.

The steps are free to know. But executing them costs you.

Why 98% Never Even Start

Here’s the sad part.

Over 98% of LinkedIn users don’t post actively. Ever.

Why?

Because they were told it’s easy.

They heard “just post consistently and you’ll grow.” They tried it for two weeks. It was harder than promised. Results didn’t come fast. And they thought “this doesn’t work” or “I’m not good at this.”

So they quit.

But the problem was never them. The problem was the lie that it would be easy.

If someone had told them the truth, “this is simple but it’s going to be hard, and that’s normal,” they might have stuck around.

Expectations are everything. When you expect easy and get hard, you feel like a failure. When you expect hard and get hard, you feel like you’re on track.

Same difficulty. Completely different outcome.

Why “Hard” Is Actually Good News

Now here’s the reframe that changes everything.

The fact that it’s hard is the best thing about it.

Think about it.

If LinkedIn were easy, everyone would do it. And if everyone did it, it would be worthless. No advantage. No edge. Just noise.

The difficulty is the moat.

Because most people quit, the ones who stay win. Not because they’re smarter. Because they endured.

Every time it feels hard and you keep going, you pull ahead of the 98% who stopped.

The hard part isn’t the obstacle. It’s the whole point.

If it’s easy for everyone, it’s probably not worth much. The stuff worth having is always a little hard to get.

So when it feels difficult, don’t take it as a sign you’re failing. Take it as a sign you’re doing something most people can’t.

What This Means for You

Stop waiting for it to feel easy. It won’t.

Stop thinking something’s wrong because it’s hard. Nothing’s wrong. Hard is the deal.

Instead, do this:

Lower your expectations on speed. Raise them on effort.

You’re not going to blow up in a month. But if you put in real work consistently, you’ll get there.

Judge yourself on inputs, not outputs.

You can’t control the algorithm or who follows you. You can control whether you showed up and did the work. Measure that.

Play longer than the quitters.

You don’t have to be the most talented. You just have to still be here when everyone else gave up. That alone puts you in the top few percent.

Simple steps. Hard execution. Long timeline.

That’s the honest version nobody sells you. Because “it’s hard but worth it” doesn’t make for a catchy hook.

But it’s the truth. And knowing it is what’ll keep you going when the easy-promisers have all burned out.

The Bottom Line

LinkedIn is simple.

Publish consistently. Engage with people. Improve your writing. Create an offer. Talk to people. Build community. Be known for one thing.

You already know what to do. It was never a secret.

But knowing isn’t the hard part. Doing is.

So don’t get discouraged when it’s hard. Getting discouraged is what the 98% did. And look where it got them.

The steps are simple. The work is hard. The reward is real.

Now go do the hard thing.

Your Homework

This week, do this:

1. Look at the 7-step list. Be honest: which ones are you actually doing? Which are you avoiding because they’re hard?

2. Pick the hardest one. The one you keep dodging. That’s probably the one holding you back.

3. Do it this week anyway. Not perfectly. Just do it.

4. Notice the feeling of doing something hard. That discomfort is you pulling ahead of the people who quit.

5. Remember: you don’t have to be the best. You just have to still be here.

LinkedIn was never easy.

It was just always worth it.

That’s it for this week.

If you’ve been feeling like LinkedIn is hard, reply and let me know you’re still in it. You’re closer than you think.

See you next time.

That’s a wrap for today.

See you next week! If you want more LinkedIn tips, be sure to follow me on LinkedIn (link).

If you love this episode and want to support us, spread the word about us by sharing The LinkedIn Secrets with colleagues. I really appreciate it!

Thank you for reading!

What’d you think of today’s edition?

Help me to understand what you think about this episode. Just reply with a number (1, 2, or 3) to this email.

• 1 - Damn good

• 2 - Meh, do better

• 3 - You didn’t cook it

Your compadre,
Anton “LinkedIn growth strategies” Cherkasov

I analyze thousands of viral LinkedIn posts, so your content performs better.

In this issue, you’ll find:

• What’s getting throttled right now (”comment X for my freebie” posts and obvious AI content)

• The 200-view post that made a sale (and the two-layer strategy behind it)

TOGETHER WITH POSTHERO

Grow your audience faster on LinkedIn. With an AI-powered tool that helps you create content and grow on LinkedIn.

• Create high-converting content that helps you grow on LinkedIn

• Create a weekly content in 76 seconds

• AI Voice assistant for creating content in seconds

Try PostHero for free ->

LinkedIn Is Changing Its Algorithm Right Now (Here’s What’s Working)

Something’s happening on LinkedIn.

Views are down. Posts that used to do fine are getting buried. People are refreshing their analytics and wondering what they did wrong.

If your reach dropped recently, it’s probably not you.

The algorithm is shifting. Again.

Now, nobody outside LinkedIn knows exactly what’s going on. Predicting this platform is a fool’s game. But there are clear patterns showing up. And once you see them, you can adjust.

Let me tell you what’s dying, what’s working, and what to do about it.

What’s Getting Killed

Two things are taking a hit right now.

1. “Comment X and I’ll send it to you” posts

You know the format.

“Comment WORD and I’ll DM you my free guide.”

These lead magnet posts used to print reach. Everyone used them. They juiced the comment count, and the comment count juiced the algorithm.

Not anymore.

It looks like LinkedIn is onto the trick. A lot of people are seeing these posts get way less reach than usual (Bastian posted about it). The “comment X” play seems to be getting quietly throttled.

Makes sense if you think about it. Those comments aren’t real conversations. They’re just people typing a word to get a freebie. LinkedIn wants genuine engagement, not a keyword dump.

The gravy train on this one looks like it’s slowing down.

2. Obvious AI content

LinkedIn also seems to be fighting AI-generated posts.

The generic, could-be-anyone, clearly-written-by-a-robot content? It’s not getting the love it used to.

And this is the big clue. Because it tells you exactly what to do instead.

If AI content is getting suppressed, then the content AI CAN’T write becomes your advantage.

Which brings us to what’s actually working.

What’s Working: Type 1 - Personal Stories

This is your top-of-funnel play right now.

Personal stories are winning. And here’s why they’re bulletproof:

AI can’t write them.

AI can spit out “5 tips for productivity” all day. But it can’t tell YOUR story. It doesn’t know what you regretted at 25. It doesn’t know why you moved across the world. It doesn’t know what that one client taught you.

That’s your edge.

Here’s the format that’s working:

Start with a real personal story. Something that happened to YOU. Then weave your business or expert insight into it. End with a soft call to action.

Some examples:

“I’m 30 years old. I spent 6 years working with companies like X and Y. Here’s the one thing I regret most.”

“I moved from the US to Bali. Here’s how I actually run my business from a rice field.”

“I lost my biggest client last year. It ended up being the best thing that happened to my business.”

See the pattern?

You lead with the human story. The lesson comes wrapped inside it. And because it’s YOUR story, nobody else can copy it and AI can’t fake it.

The advice is still there. You’re still positioning yourself as an expert. But you’re delivering it through a story instead of a boring listicle.

Soft CTA at the end. Nothing pushy. Just a gentle nudge (you can still get leads from personal stories with the right CTA).

This is what gets reach right now.

What’s Working: Type 2 - Deep Niche Expertise

The second type is different.

It won’t get you huge reach. But it might get you clients. And that’s the whole point.

This is ultra-specific, expert-level content for your exact niche.

Not “here are some marketing tips.”

But: “I’m a marketing consultant for DTC brands with 10 years of experience. Here’s exactly what I’d do if I had to start a brand from scratch today.”

Or: “Here’s the exact process I use with my e-commerce clients to fix their email flows.”

Deep. Detailed. Specific. Written for one type of person who has one type of problem.

This content doesn’t go viral. Most people scrolling won’t care. And that’s fine.

Because the people who DO care are your ideal clients. And they don’t just read it. They act on it.

The 200-View Post That Made a Sale

Here’s the thing that proves the point.

My friend recently posted this kind of deep niche content. The post got 200 views. Two hundred. That’s it.

By vanity metrics, a total flop.

But from those 200 views, he made a sale for his community program.

Not a lead. A sale.

Think about that. A post most people would call a failure directly made money.

Because the 200 people who saw it were the RIGHT 200 people. And the content was specific enough to make one of them say “this person clearly knows my exact problem. I’m in.”

This is what everyone misses.

Reach is a vanity metric. Revenue isn’t.

A post with 200 targeted views can outperform a post with 20,000 random ones. Every time.

The Two-Layer Strategy

So here’s how you put it together.

You need both types of content working together.

Personal stories = top of funnel. These get reach. They pull new people in. They grow your audience and build your brand. This is how strangers discover you.

Deep niche expertise = bottom of funnel. These don’t get much reach. But they convert. They turn the right viewers into leads and sales. This is how your audience becomes clients.

Stories bring people in. Expertise converts them.

Run both. Lead with stories to grow. Sprinkle in deep expert posts to sell.

Most people only do one. They either tell stories and never convert, or they post dry expertise and never grow.

Do both, and you’ve got a full engine.

Don’t Panic About the Changes

One last thing.

Every time LinkedIn changes its algorithm, people freak out. They think the platform is dying. They think they’re being punished.

Relax.

Algorithm changes are normal. They happen constantly. And they always reward the same thing in the end: real, valuable, human content.

The people who panic and quit lose. The people who adjust and keep showing up win.

This change is actually good news if you’re willing to be human. It punishes the shortcuts and the AI slop. It rewards the people telling real stories and sharing real expertise.

That can be you. Starting this week.

Your Homework

This week, do this:

1. Write one personal story post. Start with something real that happened to you. Weave in a business lesson. Soft CTA at the end.

2. Write one deep niche post. Pick your exact ideal client and one specific problem. Go deep. Don’t worry about reach.

3. Watch what happens. The story post should pull reach. The niche post might just pull a lead.

The algorithm changed. So change with it.

Be human. Be specific. Keep showing up.

That’s it for this week.

If your views dropped recently, reply and tell me what you’re seeing. I’m tracking these changes closely and I’d love to compare notes.

See you next time.

That’s a wrap for today.

See you next week! If you want more LinkedIn tips, be sure to follow me on LinkedIn (link).

If you love this episode and want to support us, spread the word about us by sharing The LinkedIn Secrets with colleagues. I really appreciate it!

Thank you for reading!

What’d you think of today’s edition?

Help me to understand what you think about this episode. Just reply with a number (1, 2, or 3) to this email.

• 1 - Damn good

• 2 - Meh, do better

• 3 - You didn’t cook it

Your compadre,
Anton “LinkedIn growth strategies” Cherkasov

I uncover the LinkedIn strategies that turn profiles into client-generating machines.

In this issue, you’ll find:

• The 4 signs your offer is the real problem (not your hooks or the algorithm)

• The 10-second test that tells you if your offer actually converts

TOGETHER WITH POSTHERO

Grow your audience faster on LinkedIn. With an AI-powered tool that helps you create content and grow on LinkedIn.

• Create high-converting content that helps you grow on LinkedIn

• Create a weekly content in 76 seconds

• AI Voice assistant for creating content in seconds

Try PostHero for free ->

Your Content Isn’t the Problem. Your Offer Is.

You’ve been grinding.

Better hooks. More posts. Commenting every day. Optimizing your profile. Showing up consistently.

And your reach is up. People are seeing your stuff. Profile views are climbing.

But the clients still aren’t coming.

So you assume you need more. More reach. More followers. More engagement. You double down on content.

Here’s the hard truth:

More visibility won’t fix a weak offer.

You can send a thousand people to your profile. If your offer doesn’t land, none of them convert. You’re just pouring more water into a leaky bucket.

I learned this the hard way. And most creators never learn it at all.

Today we fix the bucket.

The Trap Everyone Falls Into

Almost everyone builds their LinkedIn strategy backwards.

They obsess over the top of the funnel. Impressions. Likes. Comments. Follower count.

They treat visibility as the goal.

But visibility isn’t the goal. Conversion is.

And conversion happens when the right person lands on your profile, understands what you offer, and thinks “yes, I need that.”

If that last part is broken, everything upstream is wasted.

You could go viral tomorrow. If your offer is weak, you’d get a spike in followers and zero new clients.

More impressions can’t save an offer that doesn’t convert a single profile visitor.

The order matters. Offer first. Visibility second.

Why This Order Matters So Much

Think of it like this.

Your content drives traffic. Your offer converts it.

If you fix the traffic but not the conversion, you get lots of visitors and no customers.

If you fix the conversion first, then every bit of traffic you add actually turns into something.

This is why some people with small audiences out-earn people with huge ones.

The small-audience person nailed their offer. Every visitor counts. The big-audience person has a fuzzy offer. Most visitors bounce.

Same traffic. Wildly different results.

The offer is the multiplier. Get it right, and everything else you’re already doing suddenly works harder.

What “A Weak Offer” Actually Looks Like

Let’s get specific. Here’s how you know your offer is the problem.

It’s vague.

“I help businesses grow.”

Grow how? Which businesses? Grow what exactly?

Nobody reads that and thinks “that’s for me.” It’s too broad to mean anything.

It’s about you, not them.

“I’m a passionate consultant with 10 years of experience offering strategic solutions.”

Cool. But what do I get? What problem of mine do you solve?

People don’t care about your experience. They care about their outcome.

It has no clear outcome.

“I offer coaching and consulting services.”

Services to do what? Get me where?

If there’s no clear result attached, there’s no reason to buy.

It’s trying to serve everyone.

“I work with startups, enterprises, solopreneurs, and agencies across all industries.”

When you serve everyone, you speak to no one.

The broader your offer, the weaker it hits.

If any of these sound like your profile, your content was never the issue.

What A Strong Offer Looks Like

A strong offer is clear, specific, and outcome-focused.

The formula is simple:

I help [specific person] achieve [specific outcome] through [specific method].

Compare these:

Weak: “I help businesses with marketing.”
Strong: “I help B2B founders book 5-10 sales calls a month with LinkedIn content.”

Weak: “I offer career coaching.”
Strong: “I help mid-career engineers land senior roles without applying to a single job board.”

Weak: “I’m a fitness coach.”
Strong: “I help busy dads lose 20 pounds in 90 days without giving up beer or weekends.”

See the difference?

The strong ones are specific. You know exactly who it’s for and what you get.

The moment the right person reads it, they think “that’s me. I want that.”

That’s what converts.

The Three Questions Your Offer Must Answer

When someone lands on your profile, they’re silently asking three things.

Your offer needs to answer all three in seconds.

1. Is this for me?

They need to instantly recognize themselves.

“B2B founders” tells a B2B founder this is for them.
“Businesses” tells nobody anything.

Be specific about who you serve. The right people will feel it.

2. What do I get?

They need a clear outcome.

Not your process. Not your credentials. The result.

“Book 5-10 sales calls a month.” That’s a result I can picture. That’s something I want.

3. Why you?

They need a reason to trust you specifically.

This is where your content, your results, and your social proof come in. Client wins. Case studies. Your own story.

Answer these three and the conversion takes care of itself.

How Your Content and Offer Work Together

Here’s the part most people miss.

Your content and your offer aren’t separate things. They feed each other.

Your offer decides what you post about. And your content proves you can deliver on your offer.

If your offer is “I help founders book sales calls with LinkedIn content,” then your content should show you know exactly how to do that. Every post is evidence.

By the time someone reads your offer, your content has already convinced them you’re the real deal.

Content builds trust. The offer closes the loop.

But it only works if the offer is clear enough to build content around. A fuzzy offer gives you fuzzy content. A sharp offer gives you sharp content.

Fix the offer, and your content gets easier to write too.

The Fastest Way to Test Your Offer

Want to know if your offer is strong?

Try this.

Show your profile headline and About section to someone who doesn’t know what you do.

Give them 10 seconds. Then ask:

“Who do I help, and what result do I get them?”

If they can answer clearly, your offer works.

If they hesitate, or guess wrong, or say “I’m not sure,” your offer is the problem.

Not your content. Not the algorithm. The offer.

This 10-second test will teach you more than a month of tweaking hooks.

Before You Chase More Reach

I’m not telling you to stop creating content.

Keep posting. Keep commenting. Keep showing up.

But before you pour more energy into getting more eyeballs, make sure those eyeballs land on something worth converting.

Fix the offer first. Then all the visibility work you’re already doing starts paying off.

It’s the difference between adding traffic to a leaky funnel and adding traffic to one that actually converts.

Same effort. Completely different results.

Get the offer right, and you might find you don’t even need more reach. You just needed the reach you already had to actually work.

Your Homework

This week, do this:

1. Write your current offer in one sentence. Who you help, what result, how.

2. Run the 10-second test. Show it to someone who doesn’t know your work. Ask them who you help and what they get.

3. If they can’t answer clearly, rewrite it. Use the formula: I help [specific person] achieve [specific outcome] through [specific method].

4. Update your headline and About section to match.

5. Then, and only then, go back to creating content.

Stop blaming your content for a problem your offer is causing.

Fix the offer. Watch everything else finally click.

That’s it for this week.

If you rewrite your offer this week, reply and send me the new version. I’ll tell you if it passes the test.

See you next time.

That’s a wrap for today.

See you next week! If you want more LinkedIn tips, be sure to follow me on LinkedIn (link).

If you love this episode and want to support us, spread the word about us by sharing The LinkedIn Secrets with colleagues. I really appreciate it!

Thank you for reading!

What’d you think of today’s edition?

Help me to understand what you think about this episode. Just reply with a number (1, 2, or 3) to this email.

• 1 - Damn good

• 2 - Meh, do better

• 3 - You didn’t cook it

Your compadre,
Anton “LinkedIn growth strategies” Cherkasov

I break down what makes LinkedIn posts go viral, so your content gets seen.

In this issue, you’ll find:

• 13 Misconceptions About LinkedIn (That Are Quietly Killing Your Growth)

TOGETHER WITH POSTHERO

Grow your audience faster on LinkedIn. With an AI-powered tool that helps you create content and grow on LinkedIn.

• Create high-converting content that helps you grow on LinkedIn

• Create a weekly content in 76 seconds

• AI Voice assistant for creating content in seconds

Try PostHero for free ->

13 Misconceptions About LinkedIn (That Are Quietly Killing Your Growth)

LinkedIn runs on recycled advice.

People repeat the same “rules” so often that they start to sound like facts. But a lot of them were never true. And some stopped being true years ago.

The problem is these myths cost you. They push you toward the wrong habits and scare you away from the stuff that actually works.

I’ve tested most of these myself. So let me set the record straight.

Here are 13 things people believe about LinkedIn that are just plain wrong.

1. “Hashtags help your reach.”

They don’t. Not anymore.

Maybe back in 2019 they did something. Today they do close to nothing.

Stop wasting time hunting for the perfect hashtag combo. Spend that energy on your first line instead. That’s what actually decides if people read.

2. “Links in your post tank your reach.”

This one won’t die. And it’s wrong.

The problem was never the link. It’s when the entire post exists just to deliver the link.

Lead with value. Tell a story. Teach something. Then drop the link for people who want more. Reach stays perfectly fine.

3. “Nobody will read my posts.”

Have you tried posting something worth reading?

Not another “thrilled to announce” corporate update. An actual story. A real lesson. Something with a point of view.

Most people who say “nobody reads my stuff” have never posted anything interesting. Fix the content, and the readers show up.

4. “Big follower counts mean big money.”

Nope.

Your follower number has almost nothing to do with your ability to land clients.

I’ve seen accounts with 50K followers that can’t sell a thing. And accounts with a few hundred followers that are fully booked.

The number on your profile doesn’t pay you. The right relationships do.

5. “You have to warm up the algorithm first.”

Liking ten posts before you publish. Scrolling for a bit to “activate” your account. All of it is nonsense.

This was a trend a few years ago. It’s done.

There’s no secret ritual. Post good content, then stick around to reply to comments. That’s the whole thing.

6. “Commenting eats too much time.”

It really doesn’t.

You know what actually burns your time? Mindlessly scrolling a messy feed for half an hour.

Set up a few focused feeds, comment on the right posts, and you’re done in 15 minutes. Commenting is one of the highest-return things you can do. Scrolling is the time sink.

7. “Carousels get the most reach.”

No single format wins.

Carousels, text posts, images, all of them can work. What matters is whether the thing is written well.

A sharp text post beats a lazy carousel every time. Obsess over the words, not the packaging.

8. “Premium gives you a reach boost.”

It doesn’t.

Premium comes with some handy features. Extra visibility is not one of them. The algorithm couldn’t care less whether you pay.

Buy it if the tools help you. Don’t buy it expecting more eyeballs.

9. “You post to become an influencer.”

Wrong goal.

You’re not trying to be famous. You’re trying to be the person your industry knows and trusts.

Those are very different things. Chasing reach gets you a big number. Building trust gets you a business. And trusted people end up with real influence anyway, without ever chasing it.

10. “Only people who talk about LinkedIn grow on LinkedIn.”

This one always makes me smile.

Your ideal clients aren’t LinkedIn gurus. They’re in your actual field.

Follow people from other industries. Post about your niche to the people who care about it. The “LinkedIn about LinkedIn” bubble is tiny. The real opportunity is everywhere outside it.

11. “The algorithm just doesn’t like my stuff.”

Stop right there.

You can’t pin weak writing on the algorithm. You can’t pin your own lack of engagement on it either.

Nine times out of ten, the algorithm isn’t the issue. Your hook is. Your topic is. Whether you showed up in the comments after posting is. Look there first.

12. “LinkedIn is only for job seekers.”

Tell that to the founders closing deals here every day.

Job hunting is one slice of what this platform does. It’s also where people build authority, find clients, and grow companies.

If you think it’s just a place to hunt for work, you’re leaving the best part on the table.

13. “LinkedIn is too serious for personality.”

You can run a serious business and still be a human.

You can crack a joke. Show your personality. Write the way you actually talk.

The people who treat this place like a stiff corporate conference are usually the most forgettable ones here. Lighten up. It’s not that deep.

The Thread Running Through All of These

Look closely and you’ll spot the pattern.

Almost every one of these myths does the same job: it hands you an excuse to skip the real work.

“Links kill reach” lets you avoid sharing your offer.

“Nobody reads my posts” lets you avoid writing anything good.

“The algorithm hates me” lets you avoid getting better.

“It’s too serious” lets you stay safe and boring.

The myths stick around because believing them is easier than doing the work.

But the actual game is simple, even if it isn’t easy:

Write better. Engage more. Talk to more people. Have some fun doing it.

Everything else is just noise you picked up along the way.

Your Homework

This week, do this:

1. Find the one myth here you’ve secretly believed. Be honest with yourself.

2. Notice what it’s talked you out of doing.

3. Do the opposite this week. Post the link. Write the bold take. Say the thing.

4. Watch what happens once you stop believing it.

Most of what’s holding you back on this platform isn’t real.

It’s just a story nobody bothered to check.

That’s it for this week.

If one of these hit a little too close, reply and tell me which one you believed. You won’t be the only one.

See you next time.

That’s a wrap for today.

See you next week! If you want more LinkedIn tips, be sure to follow me on LinkedIn (link).

If you love this episode and want to support us, spread the word about us by sharing The LinkedIn Secrets with colleagues. I really appreciate it!

Thank you for reading!

What’d you think of today’s edition?

Help me to understand what you think about this episode. Just reply with a number (1, 2, or 3) to this email.

• 1 - Damn good

• 2 - Meh, do better

• 3 - You didn’t cook it

Your compadre,
Anton “LinkedIn growth strategies” Cherkasov

I help you master LinkedIn strategies that attract clients, not just likes.

In this issue, you’ll find:

• Your Second Brain for LinkedIn: How to Capture Ideas Before You Lose Them

TOGETHER WITH POSTHERO

Grow your audience faster on LinkedIn. With an AI-powered tool that helps you create content and grow on LinkedIn.

• Create high-converting content that helps you grow on LinkedIn

• Create a weekly content in 76 seconds

• AI Voice assistant for creating content in seconds

Try PostHero for free ->

Your Second Brain for LinkedIn: How to Capture Ideas Before You Lose Them

You’re in the shower.

Suddenly, the perfect post idea hits you. A great hook. A story you forgot about. The exact angle you’ve been missing.

“I’ll remember this,” you tell yourself.

You don’t.

By the time you’re dry, it’s gone. Vanished. And you spend the next day staring at a blank screen wondering what to write.

This happens to everyone.

Here’s the thing most people get wrong about content:

The problem isn’t coming up with ideas. It’s capturing them before they disappear.

You have great ideas all day. In conversations. On calls. Reading posts. Walking around. Your brain is generating content constantly.

You’re just letting it all slip away.

Today I’ll show you how to build a “second brain” for LinkedIn. A simple system to catch every idea before it’s gone.

The Real Content Problem

Ask most people why they don’t post consistently.

They’ll say: “I don’t know what to write about.”

But that’s not actually true.

They HAD ideas. Plenty of them. Throughout the week.

The idea during that client call. The thought while reading a newsletter. The realization in the middle of a workout.

They just didn’t write any of them down.

So when they finally sit down to post, their mind is blank. All those ideas are gone.

The problem was never a shortage of ideas. It was a shortage of capture.

Fix the capture, and you’ll never run out of things to post.

Why Your Brain Is a Terrible Storage System

Your brain is great at having ideas.

It’s terrible at holding onto them.

Studies suggest we have thousands of thoughts a day. You can’t possibly remember them all. Especially the good ones that show up at random moments.

Ideas are slippery. They come when you’re busy. In the middle of something else. When you can’t stop to develop them.

And if you don’t catch them right then? They’re gone. Often forever.

Your brain is for having ideas, not storing them.

So stop trying to store them in there. Give them somewhere else to live.

The Second Brain Concept

A “second brain” is just a system outside your head where you capture and store ideas.

That’s it. It’s not complicated.

The goal is simple: whenever an idea hits, you capture it immediately. No matter where you are. No matter what you’re doing.

Then, when it’s time to write, you don’t stare at a blank page. You open your second brain. You’ve got a list of ideas waiting.

The blank page problem disappears.

You go from “what should I write about?” to “which of these should I write about first?”

Huge difference.

Where Ideas Actually Come From

Before we build the system, let’s find your sources.

Here’s where your best LinkedIn ideas are hiding:

Client calls and conversations. Every question a client asks is a post. Every problem they have is content. If one person asked, others are wondering too.

Your DMs. The questions people send you. The conversations you have. Pure content gold.

Comments. Both the comments you write and the ones you receive. A good comment is a post waiting to happen.

Other people’s posts. Not to copy. To react. “I agree with this because...” or “I see it differently...” Instant angle.

Podcasts and newsletters. Something sparks a thought. That thought is your content.

Your own work. What you did today. What you learned. What went wrong. What you figured out.

Random moments. The shower. The walk. The drive. When your mind wanders, ideas appear.

Ideas are everywhere. You just have to catch them.

Building Your Capture System

Here’s how to actually do this.

The best system is the one you’ll actually use. So keep it stupidly simple.

Rule 1: One place to capture everything

Pick ONE spot where all ideas go.

Notes app. A doc. A dedicated tool. Notion. Posthero. Doesn’t matter which.

What matters is that it’s always ONE place. Not scattered across five apps.

When an idea hits, it goes there. Every time. No thinking about where to put it.

Rule 2: Make capture instant

The system has to be faster than the idea disappearing.

If it takes 5 taps to save a thought, you won’t do it. The idea will be gone before you finish.

Your capture spot should be one tap away. Widget on your home screen. Pinned note. Whatever’s fastest.

Speed is everything. Capture beats organize.

Rule 3: Don’t edit while capturing

When you catch an idea, don’t try to make it perfect.

Just dump it. Raw. Messy. Half a sentence is fine.

“post about why cold DMs suck - use the 50 DMs 2 replies story”

That’s enough. You’ll flesh it out later.

Editing while capturing kills the flow. Catch first. Polish later.

Rule 4: Capture more than you think you need

Don’t judge ideas as they come.

That “bad” idea might become a great post next week. That random thought might be the hook you need.

Capture everything. You can always delete later.

A big messy list of ideas beats an empty perfect one.

From Capture to Post

Capturing is half the system. Here’s the other half.

Once a week, sit down with your captured ideas.

Review the list. Pick the ones that feel strong. Develop them into posts.

This is where a tool helps.

Full disclosure: this is exactly why I use Posthero. I dump my raw idea in, and it helps me turn that messy one-line thought into an actual draft. Then I personalize it, add my story, and schedule it.

The idea capture happens all week. The writing happens in one focused session.

That separation is the magic. You’re never creating from scratch. You’re always building on ideas you already caught.

The Weekly Flow

Here’s how it all fits together:

All week: Capture ideas the moment they hit. Client call sparks a thought? Capture it. Read a post you disagree with? Capture it. Shower idea? Capture it.

Once a week: Open your list. You’ve got 15-20 ideas waiting. Pick your best 3-4. Turn them into posts. Schedule them.

Repeat.

No more blank pages. No more “what should I write?” No more forgetting your best ideas.

The system does the heavy lifting.

Start Small

Don’t overcomplicate this.

You don’t need a fancy app. You don’t need color-coded folders. You don’t need a complex tagging system.

You need one place, one tap to capture, and a weekly review.

That’s the whole system.

The people with elaborate note-taking setups often capture LESS than the person with a simple notes app they actually use.

Simple and used beats complex and abandoned.

Start with your phone’s notes app today. Upgrade later if you need to.

The Compounding Effect

Here’s what happens over time.

Week 1: You capture 15 ideas. Feels good.

Month 1: You’ve got 60 ideas. You’re never short on content.

Month 6: You’ve got hundreds of ideas. You have more content than you can ever post.

Your second brain becomes an asset. A well you can always draw from.

While everyone else is staring at blank pages, you’ve got a backlog of ideas ready to go.

That’s the difference between posting consistently and posting “when inspiration strikes.”

Inspiration is unreliable. A capture system isn’t.

Your Homework

This week, do this:

1. Pick ONE place to capture ideas. Notes app is perfect. Make it one tap away.

2. For the next 7 days, capture every content idea the moment it hits. Client calls, DMs, shower thoughts, all of it.

3. Don’t edit. Just dump them raw.

4. At the end of the week, open your list. Count how many ideas you caught.

5. Pick your best 3. Turn them into posts.

Your ideas are already there.

Stop letting them slip away.

That’s it for this week.

If you start capturing ideas this week, reply and tell me how many you caught in 7 days. I bet it’s more than you expect.

See you next time.

That’s a wrap for today.

See you next week! If you want more LinkedIn tips, be sure to follow me on LinkedIn (link).

If you love this episode and want to support us, spread the word about us by sharing The LinkedIn Secrets with colleagues. I really appreciate it!

Thank you for reading!

What’d you think of today’s edition?

Help me to understand what you think about this episode. Just reply with a number (1, 2, or 3) to this email.

• 1 - Damn good

• 2 - Meh, do better

• 3 - You didn’t cook it

Your compadre,
Anton “LinkedIn growth strategies” Cherkasov

I analyze what makes LinkedIn posts go viral, so your content gets noticed.

In this issue, you’ll find:

• The Content Autopsy: How to Analyze Why a Post Flopped (or Popped)

TOGETHER WITH POSTHERO

Grow your audience faster on LinkedIn. With an AI-powered tool that helps you create content and grow on LinkedIn.

• Create high-converting content that helps you grow on LinkedIn

• Create a weekly content in 76 seconds

• AI Voice assistant for creating content in seconds

Try PostHero for free ->

The Content Autopsy: How to Analyze Why a Post Flopped (or Popped)

You post something. You check back a few hours later.

47 impressions. 2 likes. No comments.

“Huh. Guess that one didn’t work.”

And then you move on. Write the next post. Hope it does better.

Sound familiar?

Here’s the problem with that.

You just wasted the most valuable thing that post gave you: data.

Every post you publish is an experiment. It tells you something about your hook, your topic, your audience, your timing. But only if you actually look.

Most people don’t. They glance at a number, feel good or feel bad, and keep guessing.

That’s why they’re still guessing two years later.

Today I’m giving you a 10-minute post-mortem you can run on any post. Flop or hit. Both teach you something.

Let’s cut it open.

Why Most People Skip This

Two reasons.

Reason 1: It feels bad.

Looking closely at a post that flopped is uncomfortable. Easier to blame the algorithm and move on.

Reason 2: They don’t know what to look at.

They open analytics, see impressions, and have no idea what to do with that number.

Both are fixable.

The autopsy isn’t about judging yourself. It’s about finding one thing to fix next time.

One small fix per post, 3 posts a week, for a year. That’s 150 improvements.

That’s how people get good at this.

When to Run the Autopsy

Wait 24-48 hours after posting.

Not 2 hours. Early numbers lie. A slow start can turn into a strong post. A fast start can stall.

Give it a full cycle. Then look.

I do mine once a week. I open my last 3-4 posts and run through the same checklist for each.

10 minutes total. That’s it.

The 5-Step Autopsy

Here’s the checklist. Same questions every time.

Step 1: Check the impressions-to-engagement ratio

Don’t look at raw numbers. Look at the ratio.

A post with 3,000 impressions and 8 likes is a different problem than a post with 200 impressions and 15 likes.

High impressions, low engagement = LinkedIn showed it to people, but they didn’t care. Your topic or your body copy is the problem. The hook worked. The rest didn’t.

Low impressions, high engagement = the people who saw it loved it. LinkedIn just didn’t push it. Often a timing issue, or you didn’t engage after posting.

Low impressions, low engagement = the hook died. Nobody clicked “see more.” Start there.

This one check tells you where to look next.

Step 2: Reread your first three lines. Out loud.

Cover everything below line 3. Read only what shows before “see more.”

Now ask: would I click?

Be brutal here. This is where most posts die.

Common killers:

• The hook is a setup, not a hook (”I want to share some thoughts on...”)

• Line 2 kills the momentum from line 1

• You explained instead of intrigued

• It’s three lines of context before anything interesting happens

If your hook is weak, nothing else in the post matters. It was never read.

Step 3: Look at WHO engaged, not how many

This is the step nobody does. And it’s the most important one.

Click into the reactions. Scroll the names. Look at their headlines.

Are these your ideal clients? Or are they other creators, random connections, people from a completely different industry?

A post with 15 likes from your exact target audience is worth more than 200 likes from people who’ll never buy.

I’ve seen posts “flop” on paper that generated two client calls. And posts “pop” that generated nothing but ego.

Vanity metrics lie. Audience quality doesn’t.

Track this every time. Patterns show up fast.

Step 4: Check what you did in the first hour

Pull up the post. Look at the timestamps on the comments.

Did you reply quickly? Did you reply at all?

Did you leave a pinned comment?

Were you even online when it went live?

Posts don’t succeed on their own. The first 60 minutes shape the reach.

If you posted and vanished, that’s your answer. It’s not the content. It’s the follow-through.

Easiest fix on this whole list.

Step 5: Ask the honest question

Last one. And it’s the hardest.

“Was this actually good?”

Not “did I work hard on it.” Not “is the advice correct.”

Was it interesting? Was it specific? Was it something only I could have written?

Or was it another generic take that could have come from anyone?

Sometimes the post flopped because the post wasn’t good. That’s fine. That’s normal. But you have to be able to say it.

If you can’t tell, use this test: would you have stopped scrolling for this if someone else wrote it?

Don’t Skip the Winners

Everyone autopsies the flops. Almost nobody autopsies the hits.

Big mistake.

When a post pops, run the exact same 5 steps. You need to know WHY it worked so you can do it again.

Was it the hook format? The topic? The story? The timing? The fact that you replied to 40 comments in an hour?

If you don’t know why it worked, you can’t repeat it. You just got lucky and you’ll spend the next month trying to catch lightning again.

Write down the reason. Keep a running list.

Over time that list becomes your personal playbook. Not generic advice from the internet. What works for YOUR audience.

The One-Line Log

Here’s how to make this stick.

After each autopsy, write one line in a doc:

“Jul 14 — story hook, tactical topic — 2.1K impressions, 30 comments, mostly founders — worked because the first line was a specific number”

“Jul 16 — question hook, opinion topic — 400 impressions, 4 comments, mostly creators — hook was too vague, didn’t create tension”

That’s it. One line per post.

After 20 posts you’ll see it. The hook types that work. The topics that land. The days that hit.

You stop guessing. You start knowing.

Most people have published 200 posts and learned nothing from any of them, because they never wrote anything down.

The Trap to Avoid

One warning.

Don’t overcorrect after a single post.

One flop doesn’t mean the topic is dead. One hit doesn’t mean you found the formula.

LinkedIn is noisy. Individual posts are random. A great post can flop because you published during a holiday, or because someone big posted at the same time, or for no reason at all.

Look for patterns across 10+ posts. Not signals from one.

If three posts on the same topic all flopped, that’s a pattern. If one did, that’s noise.

Patience with the data. Same as patience with the growth.

Your Homework

This week, do this:

1. Open your last 3 posts. Run all 5 steps on each. Takes 10 minutes.

2. For each one, write down ONE thing you’d change.

3. Start your one-line log. Even a note on your phone works.

4. Include at least one post that did well. Figure out why.

5. Apply what you learned to your next post. Just one change. Not five.

Every post you’ve already published is sitting there with lessons in it.

Go read them.

That’s it for this week.

If you run an autopsy and find something surprising, reply and tell me what it was. I’d love to hear.

See you next time.

That’s a wrap for today.

See you next week! If you want more LinkedIn tips, be sure to follow me on LinkedIn (link).

If you love this episode and want to support us, spread the word about us by sharing The LinkedIn Secrets with colleagues. I really appreciate it!

Thank you for reading!

What’d you think of today’s edition?

Help me to understand what you think about this episode. Just reply with a number (1, 2, or 3) to this email.

• 1 - Damn good

• 2 - Meh, do better

• 3 - You didn’t cook it

Your compadre,
Anton “LinkedIn growth strategies” Cherkasov

I break down proven LinkedIn strategies, so you can get noticed and land more clients.

In this issue, you’ll find:

• The 4 custom feeds that put you in front of the right people every day
• The 10 rules of commenting that turn one comment into more reach than a whole post

TOGETHER WITH POSTHERO

Grow your audience faster on LinkedIn. With an AI-powered tool that helps you create content and grow on LinkedIn.

• Create high-converting content that helps you grow on LinkedIn

• Create a weekly content in 76 seconds

• AI Voice assistant for creating content in seconds

Try PostHero for free ->

The Commenting System LinkedIn Doesn’t Want You to Miss

Here’s a wild story.

Jasmin Alic built a commenting strategy so effective that LinkedIn featured it to their entire user base. Over a billion people.

He woke up to 10,000+ notifications.

Then LinkedIn’s own product team invited him to a private call. They wanted to dissect his commenting workflow. To understand what he was doing.

And since then? LinkedIn has made every possible move to get YOU to comment more.

Ever noticed that 90% of your notifications are about comments? That’s not an accident.

LinkedIn knows something most creators don’t:

Your comments matter more than your posts.

I’ve talked about the power of commenting before. But today I want to go deeper. Not just why you should comment, but the exact system to do it efficiently.

Let’s get into it.

Why Comments Beat Posts

Quick refresher on why this matters.

When you post, only a fraction of your followers see it. Maybe 2-5%.

But when you comment on someone else’s post, their whole audience sees you. Especially on big posts.

That means every comment puts you in front of new people. People who’ve never heard of you. In new circles. New regions.

Comments let you grow beyond your own audience.

Posts keep you inside your bubble. Comments break you out of it.

That’s why one great comment can bring more profile views than a whole post.

The Problem With Most Commenting

Here’s where people go wrong.

They open LinkedIn. They scroll the feed. They comment on whatever happens to show up.

Random posts. Random creators. No strategy.

This is slow. It’s inefficient. And it puts you in front of the wrong people.

The fix? A commenting system.

Specifically, custom feeds that show you exactly the posts you want to comment on.

Let me show you how to build them.

Build Your Commenting Feeds

This is the game-changer most people miss.

Instead of scrolling the messy main feed, you create custom feeds using LinkedIn search.

Two ways to do it:

By keyword: Search a topic in your niche. Hit “Posts.” Sort by “last 24 hours.” Now you see fresh posts on your topic.

By creator: Use the “From member” filter. Add the creators you want to engage with. Sort by “top match.” Now you see posts from your target people. Or add creators you like to Posthero and create your own commenting feed

Simple. Fast. Strategic.

No more hunting through random content. You go straight to the posts that matter.

The 4 Feeds You Need

Don’t just make one feed. Make four.

Each serves a different purpose:

1. Peers and competitors

People at your level. Engaging here builds relationships with others in your space. You learn from each other. You cross-pollinate audiences.

2. Prospects and ideal clients

The people you actually want to work with. Commenting on their posts puts you on their radar. Warmly. Without pitching.

3. Bigger influencers

Creators with large audiences. A great comment here exposes you to thousands of potential followers. This is your reach play.

4. Small creators

Up-and-coming people. Supporting them builds loyalty. They remember who showed up early. And they often become your biggest advocates.

Pro tip: Bookmark all 4 searches in your browser. Now your entire commenting system is four clicks away.

The 10 Rules of Great Commenting

Once your feeds are set up, here’s how to actually comment.

Rule 1: Add, don’t just respond

This is the #1 rule.

“Great post!” adds nothing. It’s invisible.

Instead, contribute. Expand on the idea. Share your own experience. Offer a different angle.

Make your comment valuable on its own. Like a mini-post.

Rule 2: Try to be early

Commenting 20 hours after a post went live? Nobody sees it.

Commenting in the first hour? Way more visibility.

It’s not a strict rule. But early comments get seen more. Your custom feeds make this easy - just check them a few times a day.

Rule 3: Never post and ghost

This applies to your own posts too.

After you publish, stay for 30-60 minutes. Reply to every comment. Keep the conversation going.

If a creator with 370K followers makes time for this, so can you.

Rule 4: Use pinned comments

Every time you post, add a pinned comment.

This is a “self-comment” that adds bonus value: extra information, behind-the-scenes context, a link to a resource.

It gives people more without cluttering your main post.

Make it a habit. Never miss one.

Rule 5: Find new people daily

Don’t just comment on the same 10 people every day.

Actively look for new faces in your feed.

This constantly puts you in new circles and regions. It’s one of the biggest reach hacks there is.

Rule 6: Repurpose comments into posts

Your best comments are basically free content.

If you wrote a thoughtful comment that got attention, turn it into a post.

Some creators make 80% of their posts from previous comments. You’re already writing the content. Reuse it.

Rule 7: Block the haters

Comment sections attract negativity. Every platform has them - people who think they know better.

You don’t have to engage. You don’t have to tolerate it.

Block and move on. Protect your energy. It’s more than fine.

Rule 8: Comment on 4 account types

This ties back to your feeds. Spread your comments across peers, prospects, big influencers, and small creators.

Each type serves a different goal. Together they build reach, relationships, and leads.

Rule 9: Quality over everything

A few great comments beat 50 lazy ones.

Don’t spam “🔥” on every post. That does nothing.

Write comments that make people stop and think “who wrote this?”

Rule 10: Have fun

Don’t overthink it.

Comment because you actually understand the topic. Because you have something to say.

Remember what commenting does for you:

• Puts you in new circles daily = more reach

• Puts you in front of prospects = new clients

• Lets you grow beyond posting = no dependence on the algorithm

When you see it that way, commenting stops feeling like a chore. It becomes the smartest thing you do all day.

Why This System Works

Most people treat commenting as an afterthought.

They post their content, then maybe leave a few random comments if they have time.

Backwards.

The creators who win treat commenting as a primary strategy. They have a system. They show up in the right feeds every day. They add real value.

And they grow. Not because of the algorithm. In spite of it.

Your custom feeds make this repeatable. Instead of relying on willpower and random scrolling, you have a clear path: open your four bookmarks, comment on the best posts, done.

Systems beat motivation. Every time.

Your Homework

This week, do this:

1. Build your four custom feeds using LinkedIn search. Peers, prospects, big influencers, small creators.

2. Bookmark all four in your browser so they’re one click away.

3. Each day, open your feeds and leave 10 comments that ADD value. No “great post.”

4. On your next post, stay for 30-60 minutes and reply to everyone.

5. At the end of the week, check your profile views. Watch them climb.

Stop treating comments as an afterthought.

Build the system. Show up daily. Grow beyond your own audience.

That’s it for this week.

If you set up your custom feeds, reply and let me know how it changes your commenting. I’d love to hear.

See you next time.

I uncover the strategies behind LinkedIn growth, so you can win more clients.

In this issue, you’ll find:

• How to Sign a Client This Week (5 Tactics That Actually Work)

TOGETHER WITH POSTHERO

Grow your audience faster on LinkedIn. With an AI-powered tool that helps you create content and grow on LinkedIn.

• Create high-converting content that helps you grow on LinkedIn

• Create a weekly content in 76 seconds

• AI Voice assistant for creating content in seconds

Try PostHero for free ->

How to Sign a Client This Week (5 Tactics That Actually Work)

Let’s say you needed a new client fast.

Not in 6 months. Not “eventually.” This week.

What would you do?

Most people panic. They start blasting cold DMs. They post a desperate “I have availability!” message. They lower their prices.

None of that works.

But there are tactics that do. Fast ones. Tactics that use the audience and relationships you already have.

I studied how top creators approach this. Jasmin Alic with 360K+ followers shared his exact playbook for signing a client ASAP. It worked for my clients too.

Here are 5 tactics you can start using today. Plus a bonus that ties them all together.

Tactic 1: Revive Old DM Conversations

You’re sitting on gold and you don’t even know it.

Go into your LinkedIn DMs right now. Scroll through old conversations.

You’ll find people who were interested but never took the next step. Conversations that just... stopped. Leads sitting there doing nothing.

They didn’t say no. They just went quiet. Life happened. The timing wasn’t right.

Here’s the thing: most of them are still there. Still potential clients. They just need a reason to talk to you again.

So give them one.

“Hey [name], was just thinking about our conversation from a while back. How’s [their project/goal] going?”

No pitch. Just reopening the door.

You’d be surprised how many leads are sitting in your DMs waiting for you to message first.

Start there. It’s the fastest win available to you.

Tactic 2: Post Client Results (Without Being Salesy)

Social proof sells. But most people do it wrong.

They post obvious “look how great I am” testimonials that make everyone cringe.

Better approach: weave client results into problem-solving content.

Instead of: “Another happy client!”

Try: “A client came to me with [problem]. Here’s how we solved it. [Breakdown of the solution.] The result: [outcome].”

Now you’re teaching AND showing proof at the same time.

The reader learns something useful. And they see that you get results.

This doesn’t feel like a sales post. It feels like a value post. But it does the selling for you.

Include a client quote if you have one. Real words from real people build instant trust.

Tactic 3: Go Live and Sell On the Call

This one scares people. Which is exactly why it works.

A LinkedIn Live stream lets you demonstrate your expertise in real time.

No editing. No hiding. Just you, showing what you know.

When people watch you solve problems live, answer questions on the spot, and share real knowledge, something shifts. They stop wondering if you’re legit. They can see it.

And here’s the key: you can sell ON the call.

Not in a sleazy way. Just naturally.

“If you want help with this, I have a few spots open. DM me after.”

People who watched you demonstrate value for 30 minutes are warm. They’ve seen what you can do. The sale feels easy.

Live video feels uncomfortable at first. Do it anyway. It compresses the trust-building timeline like nothing else.

Tactic 4: Message Your Profile Viewers

Someone viewed your profile.

That’s not random. That’s a signal.

They saw your name somewhere - a post, a comment, a connection - and were curious enough to click. To learn more about you.

That’s a warm lead handing you an invitation.

So start a conversation. Casually.

“Hey [name], noticed you stopped by my profile. What caught your eye?”

Or: “Hey [name], saw you checked out my profile. Anything I can help with?”

Simple. Friendly. Human.

But here’s the rule: don’t pitchslap.

Do NOT immediately hit them with “I help people like you achieve X, want to book a call?”

That kills it instantly.

Start the conversation. Build rapport. Let it develop naturally.

The warm signal is an opening, not a green light to sell.

Tactic 5: Write the Best Comments on the Platform

This is the one people sleep on.

Everyone’s focused on their own posts. Nobody’s thinking about comments.

Big mistake.

A single great comment can bring you more profile views than any post you write.

Here’s why: when you leave a thoughtful comment on a big creator’s post, their whole audience sees it. Thousands of your ideal clients, all in one place.

If your comment adds real value, people click your name. They check your profile. Some follow. Some DM.

Comments are content too.

So don’t just write “Great post!” That’s invisible.

Contribute. Add something. Share your own take. Expand on the idea. Disagree respectfully.

Make your comment so good that people want to know who wrote it.

Do this on 5-10 big posts per day, and watch your profile views climb.

The Bonus That Ties It Together

Here’s a challenge that makes all of this work:

Get on one call a day. Just 10 minutes.

That’s it.

Not a sales pitch. Just a conversation. A quick chat with a lead, a connection, a potential client.

Why does this work?

Because signing clients requires talking to people. Real conversations. Not just posting into the void.

One 10-minute call a day is 5 calls a week. 20 calls a month.

Some of those calls turn into clients. It’s just math.

Most people never get on calls. They hide behind their content. They wait for clients to come to them.

The people who actually sign clients are the ones having conversations.

One call a day. 10 minutes. That’s the challenge.

Why These Work Together

Notice a pattern in all 5 tactics?

None of them are about creating more content.

They’re about using what you already have:

• The leads already in your DMs

• The results you’ve already delivered

• The expertise you already possess

• The people already viewing your profile

• The audiences already gathered on big posts

You don’t need a bigger audience to sign a client.

You need to actually use the audience and relationships you have.

Most people are sitting on opportunities they never act on.

These tactics are about acting on them.

The Mindset Shift

Signing a client ASAP isn’t about doing more.

It’s about doing the right things.

Cold outreach to strangers? Slow and painful.

Reviving warm leads, showing proof, demonstrating expertise, talking to interested people? Fast and effective.

Stop trying to fill the top of your funnel when you have warm leads sitting untouched at the bottom.

The client you need this week is probably already in your network.

You just have to go get them.

Your Homework

This week, do this:

1. Open your DMs. Find 5 old conversations that went cold. Revive them today.

2. Write one post that shares a client result through a problem-solving angle.

3. Check your profile viewers. Message 3 who fit your ideal client. Casually, no pitch.

4. Leave 10 thoughtful comments on big posts in your niche. Make them add value.

5. Take the challenge: get on one 10-minute call every day this week.

The tactics are simple. The results are real.

But only if you actually do them.

That’s it for this week.

If you sign a client using one of these tactics, reply and tell me which one worked. I’d love to hear about it.

See you next time.

That’s a wrap for today.

See you next week! If you want more LinkedIn tips, be sure to follow me on LinkedIn (link).

If you love this episode and want to support us, spread the word about us by sharing The LinkedIn Secrets with colleagues. I really appreciate it!

Thank you for reading!

What’d you think of today’s edition?

Help me to understand what you think about this episode. Just reply with a number (1, 2, or 3) to this email.

• 1 - Damn good

• 2 - Meh, do better

• 3 - You didn’t cook it

Your compadre,
Anton “LinkedIn growth strategies” Cherkasov

I study viral LinkedIn content, so your posts stand out.

In this issue, you’ll find:

• The “Cringe” Paradox: Why the Posts You’re Afraid to Write Are the Ones That Work

TOGETHER WITH POSTHERO

Grow your audience faster on LinkedIn. With an AI-powered tool that helps you create content and grow on LinkedIn.

• Create high-converting content that helps you grow on LinkedIn

• Create a weekly content in 76 seconds

• AI Voice assistant for creating content in seconds

Try PostHero for free ->

The “Cringe” Paradox: Why the Posts You’re Afraid to Write Are the Ones That Work

You wrote a post.

It’s good. Maybe even great.

Your finger hovers over the publish button.

And then the voice kicks in:

“What will people think?”
“This feels like too much.”
“Isn’t this kind of cringe?”

So you don’t post it. You close the app. You tell yourself you’ll post something safer tomorrow.

I’ve been there. Everyone has.

But here’s what I’ve learned after years of watching what works on LinkedIn:

The posts you’re afraid to write are usually the ones that work best.

Let me explain this paradox.

What “Cringe” Actually Means

Let’s define it first.

When people say a post is “cringe,” they usually mean it’s:

• Too earnest

• Too personal

• Too bold

• Too enthusiastic

• Too vulnerable

• Too different from what everyone else posts

Notice something?

These aren’t actually bad things.

“Cringe” is just the feeling you get when you stop hiding behind safe, professional, forgettable content.

It’s the discomfort of being seen.

And that discomfort is exactly where the magic happens.

The Cringe Paradox

Here’s the paradox:

The content that feels cringe to YOU is often the content that connects most with OTHERS.

Why?

Because safe content is invisible. It blends in. Nobody remembers the 500th “5 tips for productivity” post.

But the post where you shared something real? Something bold? Something that made you nervous?

That’s the one people remember. That’s the one they engage with. That’s the one that builds your brand.

Jasmin Alic put it perfectly. He said being “cringe” brought him:

• International awards and recognition

• Deals and revenue he never dreamed of

• A community spanning 80 countries

• 100,000+ students

• The ability to retire his parents

All from posting stuff that felt cringe.

He still feels cringe posting certain things. But he does it anyway. Because it works.

Why We Fear Cringe

The fear of being cringe is really the fear of judgment.

We imagine people reading our post and rolling their eyes. Thinking we’re trying too hard. Judging us.

But here’s the reality:

Most people aren’t judging you. They’re too busy worrying about their own posts.

And the few who do judge? They were never going to be your clients anyway.

The people who matter - your ideal audience - don’t see cringe. They see authenticity. They see courage. They see someone willing to put themselves out there.

That’s attractive. That builds connection.

The Safe Content Trap

Here’s what happens when you only post “safe” content:

You blend in. You sound like everyone else. You’re forgettable.

Safe content gets safe results. Which is to say, no results.

Think about the posts that actually made you follow someone. Made you remember them. Made you want to work with them.

I bet they weren’t safe.

They were bold. Personal. A little uncomfortable. Maybe even cringe.

That’s what cuts through the noise.

When everyone is being safe and professional, the person willing to be real stands out.

Real Examples of “Cringe” That Works

Let me give you some examples of posts that feel cringe but perform well:

The enthusiastic post.

“I’m SO excited about this. Genuinely couldn’t sleep last night.”

Feels cringe. Too much enthusiasm. But it’s human. It’s contagious. People connect with genuine excitement.

The bold opinion post.

“Most of the advice in my industry is wrong. Here’s what I believe instead.”

Feels cringe. Who are you to challenge the norm? But bold opinions get attention and respect.

The vulnerable post.

“I failed. Publicly. Here’s what happened and what I learned.”

Feels cringe. Why would you admit failure? But vulnerability builds trust faster than any highlight reel.

The celebration post.

“I hit a huge milestone today and I’m proud of myself.”

Feels cringe. Isn’t this bragging? But celebrating your wins gives others permission to root for you.

The personal story post.

“This happened to me and it changed how I see everything.”

Feels cringe. Too personal for LinkedIn? But personal stories are the most memorable content you can create.

Every one of these feels uncomfortable to post. Every one of these works.

The Filter That Actually Matters

Now, I’m not saying post everything.

There’s a difference between “cringe that works” and “cringe that hurts you.”

Here’s the filter:

Good cringe: Feels uncomfortable because it’s bold, personal, or earnest. Serves your audience. Aligns with your brand.

Bad cringe: Feels uncomfortable because it’s actually off-brand, mean-spirited, oversharing, or purely attention-seeking.

The question isn’t “Does this feel cringe?”

The question is “Does this feel cringe because it’s real, or because it’s wrong?”

If it’s real - post it.

If it’s wrong - skip it.

Know Your Limits

One more thing.

Being willing to post cringe doesn’t mean sharing everything.

Some things are too personal. Some wounds are too fresh. Some parts of your life should stay yours.

One creator shared deeply personal posts about being a solo dad. They went viral. But he realized he never wanted to use that part of his life for content again.

That’s a healthy boundary.

You can be bold and vulnerable while still protecting what matters most to you.

Push your comfort zone. But know where your real limits are.

How to Post Through the Fear

So how do you actually do it?

Here’s what helps:

1. Notice the feeling, then post anyway.

When you feel that “this is cringe” hesitation, recognize it as a signal. Often it means you’re onto something good.

Feel the fear. Post anyway.

2. Remember nobody’s watching as closely as you think.

You’re the main character in your story. You’re a side character in everyone else’s.

People will read your post, react for a second, and move on with their day. The judgment you imagine is mostly in your head.

3. Focus on the people you’ll help.

For every person who thinks your post is cringe, there’s someone who needed to read it.

Post for them. Not for the critics.

4. Start small.

You don’t have to post your most vulnerable story tomorrow.

Start with slightly bolder content than usual. Build the muscle. Get comfortable with discomfort.

5. Look at the results.

After you post something that felt cringe, check the engagement.

You’ll often be surprised. The post you almost didn’t share becomes your best performer.

Let the results retrain your brain.

The Bottom Line

Cringe is just the feeling of being authentic in a world of safe, boring content.

The discomfort you feel before posting something bold? That’s not a warning sign. It’s often a green light.

Safe content blends in. Bold content stands out.

The creators who win are the ones willing to feel cringe and post anyway.

We all want to build a life and business we love. And being a little cringe is just part of that.

Don’t erase it. Embrace it.

Your Homework

This week, do this:

1. Think of a post you’ve been afraid to write. The one that feels too bold, too personal, too much.

2. Write it. Don’t edit out the parts that make you nervous.

3. Before you talk yourself out of it, hit publish.

4. Check the engagement after 24 hours. Notice how it did.

5. Repeat. Build the muscle of posting through the fear.

The post you’re scared to write might be the one that changes everything.

Stop hiding. Start posting.

That’s it for this week.

If you publish something that scares you this week, reply and tell me how it went. I’d love to hear.

See you next time.

That’s a wrap for today.

See you next week! If you want more LinkedIn tips, be sure to follow me on LinkedIn (link).

If you love this episode and want to support us, spread the word about us by sharing The LinkedIn Secrets with colleagues. I really appreciate it!

Thank you for reading!

What’d you think of today’s edition?

Help me to understand what you think about this episode. Just reply with a number (1, 2, or 3) to this email.

• 1 - Damn good

• 2 - Meh, do better

• 3 - You didn’t cook it

Your compadre,
Anton “LinkedIn growth strategies” Cherkasov

I study the secrets behind viral LinkedIn posts, so your content gets noticed.

In this issue, you’ll find:

• Stop Trying to Post Daily (Here’s What to Do Instead)

TOGETHER WITH POSTHERO

Grow your audience faster on LinkedIn. With an AI-powered tool that helps you create content and grow on LinkedIn.

• Create high-converting content that helps you grow on LinkedIn

• Create a weekly content in 76 seconds

• AI Voice assistant for creating content in seconds

Try PostHero for free ->

Stop Trying to Post Daily (Here’s What to Do Instead)

“You have to post every day.”

It’s the #1 piece of LinkedIn advice.

Every guru says it. Every guide repeats it. Every beginner believes it.

So you try.

Day 1: Easy. You had an idea ready.
Day 3: Getting harder. Scraping the bottom of the barrel.
Day 7: You’re posting garbage just to keep the streak alive.
Day 12: You miss a day. You feel guilty.
Day 15: You quit entirely.

Sound familiar?

Here’s the truth nobody tells you:

You don’t need to post daily to grow on LinkedIn.

In fact, trying might be the thing holding you back.

Let me explain.

The Daily Posting Myth

Where did “post every day” even come from?

It’s based on a simple (flawed) logic: more posts = more visibility = more growth.

Sounds reasonable. But it falls apart in practice.

Here’s why:

Jasmin Alic, one of the biggest creators on LinkedIn, has never posted daily. Not once in a year. He posts 3-4 times a week. And he’s growing faster than people who post 7 times a week.

How?

Because growth isn’t about volume. It’s about quality and consistency over time.

One great post per week beats seven mediocre ones.

Why Daily Posting Backfires

Posting every day creates 3 problems.

Problem 1: Quality drops

You only have so many good ideas.

When you force yourself to post daily, you run out fast. So you start posting filler. Recycled tips. Half-baked thoughts. Stuff you don’t really care about.

Your audience notices. Engagement drops. The algorithm shows your posts to fewer people.

Now you’re posting more but reaching less.

Problem 2: You burn out

Creating content is mentally demanding.

Good posts take energy. Thinking of ideas, writing hooks, editing, engaging with comments.

Do that every single day and you’ll burn out. Fast.

And burnout doesn’t lead to “posting less.” It leads to quitting completely.

I’ve seen it dozens of times. Someone goes hard for 3 weeks, burns out, and disappears for 6 months.

Problem 3: You have no time to engage

Here’s what people forget: posting is only half the game.

Engaging is the other half. Commenting on others’ posts. Replying to your own comments. Building relationships.

If all your energy goes into producing daily content, you have nothing left for engagement.

And engagement is where the real growth happens.

What to Do Instead

So if not daily, then what?

Here’s the approach that actually works.

1. Post 3-4 Times Per Week

This is the sweet spot.

Enough to stay visible. Not so much that you burn out.

You stay top of mind without sacrificing quality.

Pick your days. Maybe Monday, Wednesday, Friday. Maybe Tuesday and Thursday. Whatever fits your schedule.

Consistency matters more than frequency. 3 posts every week beats 7 posts one week and 0 the next.

2. Put Your Energy Into Quality

With fewer posts, each one matters more.

Spend the time you saved on making each post better:

• Write a stronger hook

• Tighten your structure

• Add a real story

• End with a better question

A post you spent 30 minutes on will outperform 3 posts you rushed in 10 minutes total.

Quality compounds. Garbage doesn’t.

3. Redirect Time to Engagement

Here’s the big shift.

The time you would’ve spent forcing out daily posts? Put it into engagement instead.

Comment on other people’s posts. Reply to every comment on yours. Have conversations in DMs.

This is where relationships form. Where leads come from. Where real growth happens.

Posting builds visibility. Engaging builds business.

4. Write Daily (But Don’t Post Daily)

Here’s a nuance that matters.

Writing every day is great. Posting every day isn’t.

Write daily for practice. To sharpen your skills. To capture ideas.

But only publish your best stuff. Shelve the rest.

Think of it like a chef tasting their food before serving it. You write a lot. You serve the best.

The Consistency That Actually Matters

People hear “you don’t need to post daily” and think “great, I’ll post whenever I feel like it.”

No. That’s the other extreme.

Random posting doesn’t work either.

What works is predictable consistency.

Your audience should know roughly when to expect you. The algorithm rewards regular activity. Your habit stays intact.

3-4 times per week, every week, for months. That’s the magic.

Not 7 times one week and 0 the next. Not whenever inspiration strikes.

Regular. Predictable. Sustainable.

“But Won’t I Grow Slower?”

This is the fear.

“If I post less, won’t I grow slower than people posting daily?”

Actually, no.

Here’s why:

Quality posts get more engagement. More engagement means more reach. More reach means more growth per post.

So your 4 quality posts might reach more people than someone’s 7 rushed posts.

Plus, you’ll have energy left for engagement, which drives even more growth.

And you won’t burn out, so you’ll still be posting in 6 months when the daily posters have quit.

Slow and steady doesn’t just win. It’s also faster than you think.

The Long Game

Here’s what most people miss.

LinkedIn growth is a long game.

The person who posts 4x per week for 2 years will crush the person who posts 7x per week for 2 months and then quits.

Consistency over time beats intensity in bursts.

So stop sprinting. You’re running a marathon.

Pace yourself. Protect your energy. Play the long game.

A Simple Weekly Rhythm

Here’s a sustainable weekly structure:

Monday: Post + 30 min engagement
Tuesday: Engagement only (comment on others)
Wednesday: Post + 30 min engagement
Thursday: Engagement only
Friday: Post + 30 min engagement
Weekend: Off (or light engagement if you want)

3 posts. Daily engagement. Weekends to recharge.

This is sustainable. You can do this for years.

And years is what it takes.

Your Homework

This week, do this:

1. Drop the pressure to post daily. Let it go.

2. Pick 3 days this week to post. Put them in your calendar.

3. On your non-posting days, spend 20-30 minutes engaging with others.

4. Make each post better than your usual. Use the saved time on quality.

5. Notice how much less stressed you feel. And watch your engagement.

You don’t need to post daily.

You need to post well, engage consistently, and not quit.

That’s the whole game.

That’s it for this week.

If you’ve been burning out trying to post daily, reply and let me know. I’d love to hear how switching to 3-4x per week works for you.

See you next time.

That’s a wrap for today.

See you next week! If you want more LinkedIn tips, be sure to follow me on LinkedIn (link).

If you love this episode and want to support us, spread the word about us by sharing The LinkedIn Secrets with colleagues. I really appreciate it!

Thank you for reading!

What’d you think of today’s edition?

Help me to understand what you think about this episode. Just reply with a number (1, 2, or 3) to this email.

• 1 - Damn good

• 2 - Meh, do better

• 3 - You didn’t cook it

Your compadre,
Anton “LinkedIn growth strategies” Cherkasov

I dive into viral LinkedIn posts to help you write content that clicks with your audience.

In this issue, you’ll find:

• The LinkedIn Rules You Should Break (And the Ones You Shouldn’t)

TOGETHER WITH POSTHERO

Grow your audience faster on LinkedIn. With an AI-powered tool that helps you create content and grow on LinkedIn.

• Create high-converting content that helps you grow on LinkedIn

• Create a weekly content in 76 seconds

• AI Voice assistant for creating content in seconds

Try PostHero for free ->

The LinkedIn Rules You Should Break (And the Ones You Shouldn’t)

“Post every day.”
“Use hashtags for reach.”
“DM everyone who views your profile.”
“Jump on trends while they’re hot.”

You’ve heard these rules a thousand times.

They sound smart. They sound logical. Everyone repeats them.

But here’s what I’ve noticed:

The people actually winning on LinkedIn? They’re breaking half of these rules.

I’ve been studying top creators for years. Jasmin Alic has 360K+ followers and openly admits he’s broken every “rule” in the book. Still growing. Still running a global business.

So which rules actually matter? And which ones are holding you back?

Let me break it down.

The Rules You Should Break

Rule to Break #1: “Post every day”

This is the most common advice. And it’s exhausting.

Here’s the truth: you don’t need to post daily to grow.

Some of the biggest creators on LinkedIn have never posted every single day. Not once.

Why? Because consistency doesn’t mean daily. It means regularly.

3-4 posts per week is plenty. What matters more is that your posts are good and that you show up for the long term.

Daily posting leads to burnout. Burnout leads to quitting. Quitting leads to zero growth.

Post less. Post better. Keep going longer.

Rule to Break #2: “Never miss a day”

Related to the above, but worth its own point.

Life happens. Sometimes you get sick. Sometimes work explodes. Sometimes you need a break.

And that’s okay.

Missing a few days won’t kill your account. The algorithm doesn’t punish you for taking time off.

What kills accounts is disappearing for months because you burned out trying to never miss a day.

Give yourself permission to skip when you need to. Then come back.

Rule to Break #3: “DM everyone who views your profile”

This sounds smart in theory.

Someone viewed your profile = they’re interested = send them a message.

But in practice? It often comes across as desperate. Or automated. Or salesy.

A better approach: DM people who actually engage with your content. Your regular commenters. Your fans.

These people already like you. They’re warm. The conversation feels natural.

Stop chasing cold profile viewers. Start building relationships with the people who already show up.

Rule to Break #4: “Jump on trends while they’re hot”

AI prompts are trending. Post about AI!
Carousels are hot. Make a carousel!
Video is the future. Film a video!

This is how you confuse your audience.

If you’re a sales coach and suddenly start posting about AI because it’s trending, people won’t know what you actually do.

Stay in your lane.

The creators with the strongest brands don’t follow trends. They set them. Or they ignore them completely.

Being consistent in your topic beats being trendy every time.

Rule to Break #5: “Use hashtags for reach”

This might have worked in 2019.

It doesn’t work now.

Hashtags are basically irrelevant on LinkedIn. They don’t hurt you, but they don’t help you either.

Stop spending 10 minutes researching the perfect hashtag combination. It doesn’t matter.

Put that energy into writing a better hook instead.

Rule to Break #6: “Join engagement pods”

Engagement pods are groups where everyone agrees to like and comment on each other’s posts.

Sounds like a growth hack. Actually a trap.

Pod engagement is from other creators, not your target audience. The algorithm can detect artificial engagement. And your content doesn’t actually get better.

It’s fake growth that leads to real problems.

Skip the pods. Build real relationships instead.

Rule to Break #7: “Automate your engagement”

“Use this tool to auto-comment on posts!”
“Schedule 100 DMs per day!”
“Automate your connection requests!”

No. No. And no.

LinkedIn explicitly prohibits automation. Read the User Agreement if you don’t believe me.

People get their accounts restricted. Banned. All that work, gone.

And even if you don’t get caught, automated engagement is obvious. It’s generic. It builds nothing real.

Your fingers. Your brain. Your words. That’s the only way.

Rule to Break #8: “Share vulnerable stories to connect”

Vulnerability works. I’ve said this before.

But there’s a limit.

Some creators share deeply personal stories. Divorce. Mental health struggles. Family trauma.

Sometimes it goes viral. But then what?

One top creator shared two “solo dad” posts. Both went massively viral. But he realized he never wanted to use that part of his life for personal branding again.

Be vulnerable. But know your limits.

Not everything needs to be content. Some things are just yours.

The Rules You Should Keep

Rule to Keep #1: Stay in your lane

I just said break the “chase trends” rule. This is the flip side.

Pick your topic. Stick to it.

If you’re a marketing consultant, post about marketing. Not AI. Not crypto. Not whatever’s trending.

New followers should immediately understand what you’re about.

Topical consistency builds authority. Jumping around builds confusion.

Rule to Keep #2: Serve before you sell

Give 101%.

Don’t hold back your best stuff for paid products. Don’t give “just enough” value in your free content.

Go deep. Write 3,000-character breakdown posts if needed. Coach people for free in the comments. Answer DMs with real help.

This builds trust. When people see you give so much for free, they assume your paid stuff is even better.

Serve first. The sales come later.

Rule to Keep #3: Write content worth sharing

If your content only reaches your followers, your growth will stall.

You need people to share your posts. That’s how you reach 2nd and 3rd degree connections. That’s how you get discovered.

Before you post, ask: “Would someone share this with a colleague?”

If not, make it better.

Rule to Keep #4: Engage manually

No AI comments. No automated DMs. No bots.

Spend real time in the comments. Write thoughtful responses. Have actual conversations.

This is the work most people skip. Which is exactly why it works.

Manual engagement is rare now. Be rare.

Rule to Keep #5: Never post and ghost

Posting is half the job. Engaging after is the other half.

When you publish a post and disappear, you’re signaling to your audience that you don’t care about them.

Reply to comments. Keep the conversation going. Show up.

This also helps your reach. More comments = more visibility.

Rule to Keep #6: One post, one topic, one message

The 1-1-1 rule.

Every post should focus on one topic and deliver one key message.

Don’t cram 3 ideas into one post. Don’t ramble. Don’t confuse.

Simple posts are easier to write, easier to read, and easier to engage with.

Rule to Keep #7: Make it actionable

A lot of posts make you think but don’t give you anything to apply.

Always ask: “What can the reader actually DO with this?”

If there’s no tangible takeaway, add one.

Posts with clear action steps get saved. They get shared. They get remembered.

Rule to Keep #8: Be yourself

“How can I sound more like [famous creator]?”

You can’t. And you shouldn’t try.

Your voice is your edge. Your personality is what makes you memorable.

Stop trying to copy someone else’s style. Embrace your own.

The world doesn’t need another Jasmin Alic. It needs the first you.

The Simple Filter

Not sure if a rule is worth following?

Ask yourself:

“Does this help me create better content and build real relationships?”

If yes, keep it.

“Does this just sound smart but actually leads to burnout, inauthenticity, or shortcuts?”

If yes, break it.

Most “rules” are just tactics that worked for one person in one context. They’re not universal laws.

Think for yourself. Test things. Find what works for you.

Your Homework

This week, do this:

1. Look at your current LinkedIn habits. Which “rules” are you following that feel exhausting or fake?

2. Pick one rule to break this week. See what happens.

3. Pick one rule to double down on. Commit to it fully.

4. Notice how your content and energy change.

The best creators don’t follow every rule. They know which ones matter and ignore the rest.

Now you do too.

That’s it for this week.

If you’ve broken a LinkedIn “rule” and seen good results, reply and tell me which one. I’d love to hear what’s working for you.

See you next time.

That’s a wrap for today.

See you next week! If you want more LinkedIn tips, be sure to follow me on LinkedIn (link).

If you love this episode and want to support us, spread the word about us by sharing The LinkedIn Secrets with colleagues. I really appreciate it!

Thank you for reading!

What’d you think of today’s edition?

Help me to understand what you think about this episode. Just reply with a number (1, 2, or 3) to this email.

• 1 - Damn good

• 2 - Meh, do better

• 3 - You didn’t cook it

Your compadre,
Anton “LinkedIn growth strategies” Cherkasov

I study the secrets behind viral LinkedIn posts, so your content gets noticed.

In this issue, you’ll find:

• Why Your First 100 Followers Matter More Than 10K

TOGETHER WITH POSTHERO

Grow your audience faster on LinkedIn. With an AI-powered tool that helps you create content and grow on LinkedIn.

• Create high-converting content that helps you grow on LinkedIn

• Create a weekly content in 76 seconds

• AI Voice assistant for creating content in seconds

Try PostHero for free ->

Why Your First 100 Followers Matter More Than 10K

Everyone wants 10K followers.

It’s a dream. The milestone. The proof that you’ve “made it.”

People chase it obsessively. They check their follower count daily. They compare themselves to bigger creators.

“If only I had 10K followers, then I’d get clients.”
“If only I had 10K followers, then people would take me seriously.”
“If only I had 10K followers, then everything would work.”

Here’s the truth:

Your first 100 followers matter more than the next 10,000.

I know that sounds backwards. But let me explain.

The Vanity Metrics Trap

Big follower counts look impressive.

But they don’t pay bills.

I’ve seen accounts with 50K followers who can’t sell anything. Their audience is random. Unengaged. Not interested in what they offer.

I’ve seen accounts with 500 followers who are fully booked. Their audience is small but perfect. The right people. Ready to buy.

The difference isn’t size. It’s quality.

10K followers who don’t care about what you do = worthless.

100 followers who are your exact ideal clients = a business.

Why Your First 100 Are Special

Your first 100 followers are different from all the rest.

Here’s why:

1. They found you early.

These people followed you before you had social proof. Before you had big numbers. Before you were “somebody.”

They followed because they genuinely liked your content. Not because everyone else was following you.

That’s a stronger signal than any follower you’ll get later.

2. They’re paying attention.

Big accounts have followers who forgot they followed. People who scrolled past once, hit follow, and never engaged again.

Your first 100? They see your posts. They actually read them. They notice when you show up.

Attention is the real currency. And your early followers are paying it.

3. They’ll engage with you.

Early followers comment. They reply. They DM you.

Try getting a response from someone with 100K followers. Good luck.

But your first 100? They’ll have real conversations with you. They’ll give feedback. They’ll tell you what they need.

That’s invaluable.

4. They become superfans.

People who discover you early feel ownership over your success.

“I followed them before they blew up.”

They root for you. They share your content. They tell their friends. They become your biggest advocates.

You can’t buy that kind of loyalty.

The 100 True Fans Math

You’ve probably heard of the “1,000 True Fans” concept.

The idea is simple: you don’t need millions of followers. You need 1,000 people who love what you do and will buy everything you make.

But for most of us, you don’t even need 1,000.

Let’s do some math.

Say you have 100 true followers. Not casual followers. People who actually care.

If 10% of them buy something from you each year, that’s 10 clients.

If your average client is worth $2,000, that’s $20,000.

From 100 followers.

Now imagine those 100 followers each refer to one person. Now you have 200.

10% of 200 = 20 clients = $40,000.

This is how small audiences build real businesses.

You don’t need 10K. You need the right 100.

Quality vs. Quantity

Here’s the question that matters:

Would you rather have:

A) 10,000 followers who vaguely know you exist

or

B) 100 followers who read everything you post, trust your expertise, and fit your ideal client profile perfectly

Option B wins every time.

But most people chase Option A. Because it looks better. Because it feels like progress. Because follower counts are visible.

Quality is invisible. But quality pays.

How to Build Your First 100 the Right Way

If your first 100 matter most, you should be intentional about who they are.

Here’s how:

1. Define your ideal follower.

Before you worry about growing, get clear on who you want.

What’s their job? Their industry? Their problem? Their goal?

If you can’t describe your ideal follower specifically, you’ll attract random people.

Random people don’t buy.

2. Create content for that specific person.

Every post should feel like you’re talking directly to your ideal follower.

Not “everyone who wants to grow on LinkedIn.”

But “freelance designers who want to land premium clients without cold outreach.”

Specific content attracts specific people.

3. Engage where your ideal followers hang out.

Don’t just post and hope.

Go find your ideal followers. Comment on their posts. Engage with creators they follow. Show up in their feed.

Be proactive about building the right audience.

4. Prioritize connection over reach.

In the early days, a DM conversation matters more than a viral post.

A viral post brings random followers. A real conversation brings the right ones.

Focus on building relationships, not just numbers.

5. Don’t buy followers or use engagement pods.

Shortcuts kill quality.

Fake followers will never buy. Pod engagement is from other creators, not clients.

Build real. Build slow. Build right.

The Compound Effect of Quality Followers

Here’s what happens when your first 100 are the right people:

They engage → your posts get more reach → the right people see you → more right people follow → they engage → cycle continues.

Quality compounds.

But so does the opposite.

If your first 100 are random, your content gets shown to random people. Random people don’t engage. Reach drops. Growth stalls.

The foundation matters. Get it right early.

Signs You’re Building the Wrong Audience

How do you know if your followers are the wrong people?

Some warning signs:

• High follower count but low engagement

• Lots of likes but no comments or DMs

• People engaging who would never buy from you

• Followers from completely different industries

• No one asking about your services

• Viral posts that attract randoms, not ideal clients

If this is you, stop focusing on growth. Start focusing on quality.

It’s easier to rebuild with 500 right followers than to fix an audience of 10K wrong ones.

My Own Experience

I’ll be honest.

In my early days, I chased vanity metrics too.

I posted about AI because it went viral. Got followers. It felt good.

But those followers didn’t care about LinkedIn content. They didn’t need what I offered. They were useless for my business.

I had to stop. Refocus. Start attracting the right people even if it means slower growth.

It was the right decision.

Now my audience is smaller but engaged. They reply. They DM. They buy.

I’d take my current 100 engaged followers over 10K random ones any day.

Reframing Success

Here’s a mindset shift:

Stop measuring success by follower count.

Start measuring by:

• Engagement rate (are people actually interacting?)

• DM conversations (are the right people reaching out?)

• Profile views (are people curious about you?)

• Leads generated (is your content driving business?)

• Clients closed (is this actually working?)

A creator with 500 followers and 5 clients per month is more successful than one with 50K followers and zero revenue.

Numbers on your profile don’t matter. Numbers in your bank account do.

Your Homework

This week, do this:

1. Write down exactly who your ideal follower is. Job title, industry, problem, goal. Be specific.

2. Look at your current followers. How many fit that description? Be honest.

3. Look at your recent content. Would it attract your ideal follower? Or anyone who happens to scroll by?

4. Identify 10 ideal followers you already have. Engage with them. Build the relationship.

5. Stop checking your follower count for one week. Measure engagement and conversations instead.

Your first 100 followers are your foundation.

Build it right, and everything else gets easier.

That’s it for this week.

If you’re focusing on quality over quantity, reply and tell me who your ideal follower is. I’d love to hear.

See you next time.

That’s a wrap for today.

See you next week! If you want more LinkedIn tips, be sure to follow me on LinkedIn (link).

If you love this episode and want to support us, spread the word about us by sharing The LinkedIn Secrets with colleagues. I really appreciate it!

Thank you for reading!

What’d you think of today’s edition?

Help me to understand what you think about this episode. Just reply with a number (1, 2, or 3) to this email.

• 1 - Damn good

• 2 - Meh, do better

• 3 - You didn’t cook it

Your compadre,
Anton “LinkedIn growth strategies” Cherkasov

I analyze what works on LinkedIn so you can craft content that resonates.

In this issue, you’ll find:

• The engagement ladder: from stranger to client in 5 steps

TOGETHER WITH POSTHERO

Grow your audience faster on LinkedIn. With an AI-powered tool that helps you create content and grow on LinkedIn.

• Create high-converting content that helps you grow on LinkedIn

• Create a weekly content in 76 seconds

• AI Voice assistant for creating content in seconds

Try PostHero for free ->

The Engagement Ladder: From Stranger to Client in 5 Steps

Nobody buys from strangers.

Think about it.

When was the last time you bought something from someone you’d never heard of? Someone who just appeared in your DMs with a pitch?

Never.

You buy from people you know. People you trust. People you’ve been watching for a while.

That’s how LinkedIn works too.

People don’t see your post and immediately buy. They don’t connect with you and book a call the same day.

There’s a process. A ladder they climb.

From stranger to client. Step by step.

Most people don’t understand this ladder. They try to skip steps. They pitch too early. They wonder why nobody buys.

Today I’m showing you exactly how the ladder works. And how to move people up it.

Why Most People Fail at LinkedIn Sales

Here’s what most people do:

1. Post content

2. Get some engagement

3. Immediately DM everyone who liked their post with a pitch

4. Get ignored

5. Blame the algorithm

They’re trying to jump from step 1 to step 5. Skipping everything in between.

It doesn’t work.

You can’t pitch strangers. They don’t trust you yet. They don’t know if you’re legit. They have no reason to say yes.

The ladder exists for a reason.

You have to earn each step.

The 5-Step Engagement Ladder

Here’s how people actually go from stranger to client.

Step 1: The Lurker

This is where everyone starts.

They see your post in their feed. Maybe they read it. Maybe they don’t.

They don’t engage. They don’t click your profile. You don’t know they exist.

They’re invisible to you. But they’re watching.

Most of your audience is here. Silent. Observing.

Your job at this step: Create content worth stopping for. Strong hooks. Clear value. Give them a reason to pay attention.

How they move up: They see enough good content that they start engaging. A like. A comment. Now you know they exist.

Step 2: The Engager

Now they’re interacting.

They like your posts. They leave comments. They show up regularly.

You start recognizing their name. They start recognizing yours.

This is where familiarity builds. You’re no longer a stranger. You’re “that person who posts about X.”

Your job at this step: Engage back. Reply to their comments. Like their posts. Acknowledge them. Build the relationship.

How they move up: The engagement becomes mutual. They feel connected to you. They want to learn more.

Step 3: The Follower

Now they’re invested.

They follow you. They check your profile. They read your About section. They click your links.

They’re actively interested in what you do. They might join your newsletter. Download your free resource. Watch your content regularly.

They’re not just engaging. They’re paying attention.

Your job at this step: Give them more ways to go deeper. Newsletter. Free resources. Valuable content that builds trust. Show them you know your stuff.

How they move up: They realize they have a problem you can solve. They start thinking about working with you.

Step 4: The Conversation

This is where DMs happen.

But not cold pitches. Real conversations.

Maybe they reach out to you. Maybe you reach out to them (warmly, because you’ve been engaging).

You’re talking. Getting to know their situation. Understanding their problems.

No pitching yet. Just conversation.

Your job at this step: Ask questions. Listen. Understand their needs. Be helpful without expecting anything.

How they move up: They realize you understand their problem. They trust you. They’re ready to explore solutions.

Step 5: The Client

Now they’re ready.

They’ve watched you for weeks or months. They’ve engaged with your content. They’ve talked with you.

They know you. They trust you. They believe you can help.

When you mention your offer, it’s not a pitch. It’s a solution to a problem they already know they have.

The sale feels natural. Because you earned it.

Your job at this step: Make it easy to work with you. Clear offer. Clear next step. Remove friction.

The Timeline Is Longer Than You Think

Here’s what most people get wrong.

They think this ladder takes days. Maybe a week.

It doesn’t.

For most people, the journey from Step 1 to Step 5 takes weeks or months.

Some of my clients watched my content for 6 months before reaching out. Some for over a year.

That’s normal.

You’re not building a sales funnel. You’re building relationships.

Relationships take time.

How to Move People Up the Ladder

You can’t force people up the ladder. But you can make each step easier.

Lurker → Engager:

• Write better hooks (stop the scroll)

• End posts with easy questions (invite engagement)

• Be consistent (show up so they see you repeatedly)

Engager → Follower:

• Reply to every comment (make them feel seen)

• Engage with their content too (mutual relationship)

• Have a clear profile (so they know what you’re about)

Follower → Conversation:

• Offer free value (newsletter, resources, guides)

• Share behind-the-scenes (build deeper connection)

• Use DMs for conversations, not pitches

Conversation → Client:

• Understand their problem deeply (listen more than talk)

• Share relevant results and case studies (build confidence)

• Make the next step clear (how to work with you)

The Mistake That Kills Everything

Pitching too early.

I see it constantly.

Someone likes your post. You immediately DM them: “Hey, I help people like you 10x their revenue. Want to hop on a call?”

They were on Step 2. You tried to drag them to Step 5.

Now they’re gone. They’ll never engage again. They definitely won’t buy.

You burned the relationship for a shortcut that doesn’t work.

Don’t do this.

Let people climb the ladder at their own pace. Be patient. Be present.

The sales come when you stop forcing them.

How to Know Where Someone Is

Here’s a quick guide:

Lurker: You don’t know they exist. They’ve never engaged.

Engager: They like or comment occasionally. You recognize their name.

Follower: They engage regularly. They’ve visited your profile. Maybe subscribed to your newsletter.

Conversation: You’ve talked in DMs or comments. You know something about their situation.

Client: They’ve paid you or are actively discussing working together.

When you DM someone, ask yourself: What step are they on?

Then engage appropriately for that step.

The Patience Game

Here’s the hard truth.

Most of your audience will never become clients.

And that’s okay.

Some people are just here to learn. Some aren’t your ideal clients. Some won’t ever need what you offer.

Your job is to keep showing up anyway.

Because the right people are watching. They’re climbing the ladder slowly. They’ll reach out when they’re ready.

You can’t rush it. You can only stay consistent.

Your Homework

This week, do this:

1. Look at your recent post engagement. Who’s been commenting consistently? Those are your Engagers.

2. Pick 5 Engagers who fit your ideal client profile. Start engaging with their content. Build the relationship.

3. Check your DMs. Are you having conversations? Or just pitching?

4. For any warm leads in your DMs, ask yourself: What step are they on? What do they need from me at this step?

5. Be patient. Trust the ladder.

People don’t buy from strangers.

Your job is to stop being a stranger.

That’s it for this week.

If you start thinking about your audience as a ladder, reply and let me know what shifts for you. I’d love to hear.

See you next time.

That’s a wrap for today.

See you next week! If you want more LinkedIn tips, be sure to follow me on LinkedIn (link).

If you love this episode and want to support us, spread the word about us by sharing The LinkedIn Secrets with colleagues. I really appreciate it!

Thank you for reading!

What’d you think of today’s edition?

Help me to understand what you think about this episode. Just reply with a number (1, 2, or 3) to this email.

• 1 - Damn good

• 2 - Meh, do better

• 3 - You didn’t cook it

Your compadre,
Anton “LinkedIn growth strategies” Cherkasov

I explore what works on LinkedIn to help you craft content that connects.

In this issue, you’ll find:

• 50 LinkedIn Post Ideas You Can Steal Today

TOGETHER WITH POSTHERO

Grow your audience faster on LinkedIn. With an AI-powered tool that helps you create content and grow on LinkedIn.

• Create high-converting content that helps you grow on LinkedIn

• Create a weekly content in 76 seconds

• AI Voice assistant for creating content in seconds

Try PostHero for free ->

50 LinkedIn Post Ideas You Can Steal Today

“I don’t know what to post.”

This is the #1 reason people don’t show up on LinkedIn.

Not lack of time. Not lack of skills. Not the algorithm.

They just can’t think of what to write.

So they stare at a blank screen. They scroll instead of create. They tell themselves they’ll post tomorrow.

Tomorrow never comes.

I’m fixing this for you today.

Here are 50 post ideas you can steal. Right now. No more excuses.

I’ve organized them by category. Pick one. Write it. Hit publish.

Let’s go.

Personal Story Ideas

These posts share your journey. They build connection and trust.

1. The moment you almost quit your career (and what kept you going)

2. A failure that taught you more than any success

3. The worst job you ever had and what it taught you

4. A risk you took that changed everything

5. The advice you ignored that you wish you’d followed

6. A mentor who shaped who you are today

7. Your first week at your current job or business

8. A time you were completely wrong about something

9. The biggest lesson from your 20s (or 30s, 40s, etc.)

10. What you’d tell your younger self about your industry

Tactical Tips Ideas

These posts teach something useful. They show your expertise.

11. The exact morning routine that makes you productive

12. 5 tools you use every day and why

13. A simple hack that saves you hours every week

14. The step-by-step process for something you do well

15. Common mistakes beginners make in your field

16. How to do [specific task] in 15 minutes or less

17. A template or framework you use regularly

18. The one skill that’s made the biggest difference in your career

19. How to get started with [topic] if you’re a complete beginner

20. What you’d do differently if you started over today

Opinion/Hot Take Ideas

These posts share your perspective. They spark conversation.

21. An unpopular opinion about your industry

22. Something everyone does that you think is a waste of time

23. A common piece of advice you disagree with

24. Why [popular trend] is overrated

25. What your industry gets wrong about [topic]

26. A prediction for your industry in the next 5 years

27. Something you used to believe that you’ve changed your mind about

28. Why most people fail at [thing you’re good at]

29. The uncomfortable truth about [topic in your niche]

30. What nobody tells you about [career/industry/skill]

Behind-the-Scenes Ideas

These posts show your process. They make you relatable.

31. A day in your life (what you actually do)

32. Your workspace setup and why it works for you

33. How you plan your week

34. The process behind a recent project or win

35. What your content creation routine looks like

36. How you make decisions in your business

37. A recent experiment you ran and the results

38. What you’re currently learning and why

39. Your biggest time wasters (and how you’re fixing them)

40. What a “bad day” looks like for you and how you recover

Engagement-Focused Ideas

These posts invite conversation. They boost reach.

41. Ask: “What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?”

42. Ask: “What’s one tool you can’t live without?”

43. Ask: “What’s a hill you’ll die on in your industry?”

44. “Tell me what you do and I’ll give you a content idea” (interactive)

45. Share two options and ask: “Which would you choose?”

46. “What’s a question you have about [your topic]? I’ll answer in the comments.”

47. Controversial statement + “Agree or disagree?”

48. “What’s one thing you wish you’d learned sooner?”

49. “Drop your biggest win from this week below.”

50. “What’s your unpopular opinion about [topic]? I’ll go first...”

How to Use This List

Don’t try to write all 50. That’s overwhelming.

Do this instead:

Step 1: Scan the list. Circle 5-10 ideas that resonate with you.

Step 2: Pick one. Set a timer for 15 minutes. Write a rough draft.

Step 3: Post it. Don’t overthink.

Step 4: Next week, pick another one. Repeat.

If you post 3x per week, this list gives you 4 months of content.

No more “I don’t know what to write.”

Making These Ideas Yours

These are starting points. Not copy-paste templates.

The magic happens when you add:

• Your specific experience

• Your unique perspective

• Your real stories

• Your personality

“A failure that taught you something” is generic.

“I lost my biggest client because I ignored one email. Here’s what I learned about communication.” is yours.

Take the idea. Make it specific. Make it real.

The Content Pillars Connection

If you’ve been following my newsletters, you know I talk about the 4-pillar content system:

• Tactical (tips, how-tos)

• Transformation (wins, results, success stories)

• Insightful (opinions, observations)

• Personal (stories, lessons, behind-the-scenes)

Look at this list again. You’ll see all 4 pillars represented.

Personal stories = Personal pillar
Tactical tips = Tactical pillar
Hot takes = Insightful pillar
Behind-the-scenes = Personal pillar
Engagement posts = Can be any pillar

Use this list to fill all 4 pillars. Keep your content balanced.

One More Thing

Ideas are worthless without execution.

You now have 50 ideas. More than enough.

But nothing happens until you write. Until you post. Until you show up.

Don’t save this list and forget about it.

Open it right now. Pick one idea. Write for 15 minutes.

Post today.

Your Homework

This week, do this:

1. Save this list somewhere you’ll actually see it.

2. Pick 5 ideas that feel easy to write.

3. Write and post one of them today. Not tomorrow. Today.

4. Post 2 more this week from your list of 5.

5. Next week, pick 5 more.

The ideas are here. The excuses are gone.

Now it’s on you.

That’s it for this week.

If you use one of these ideas, reply and tell me which one you picked. I’d love to see what you create.

See you next time.

I explore what works on LinkedIn to help you craft content that connects.

In this issue, you’ll find:

• The “Build in Public” Playbook for LinkedIn

TOGETHER WITH POSTHERO

Grow your audience faster on LinkedIn. With an AI-powered tool that helps you create content and grow on LinkedIn.

• Create high-converting content that helps you grow on LinkedIn

• Create a weekly content in 76 seconds

• AI Voice assistant for creating content in seconds

Try PostHero for free ->

The “Build in Public” Playbook for LinkedIn

“I don’t have anything to teach yet.”

“I’m not an expert. What would I even post about?”

“I’ll start posting when I have results to share.”

I hear this all the time.

People think they need to be successful before they can create content. They wait until they have the case studies. The credentials. The proof.

So they wait. And wait. And never start.

Here’s what they’re missing:

You don’t need to be at the finish line to create content. You can share the journey.

That’s building in public.

And it’s one of the most powerful strategies on LinkedIn right now.

What Is Building in Public?

Building in public means sharing your journey as it happens.

Not after you’ve made it. While you’re making it.

The wins. The losses. The lessons. The behind-the-scenes. The messy middle.

You’re not positioning yourself as a guru with all the answers. You’re positioning yourself as someone on the path, learning as you go.

And here’s the surprising thing:

People connect with this more than polished expertise.

Why? Because it’s relatable. Everyone is figuring things out. When you share your journey, people see themselves in you.

Why Building in Public Works

Three reasons:

1. It’s authentic.

People are tired of LinkedIn perfection.

The humble brags. The “I’m so grateful” posts. The carefully curated highlight reels.

Building in public is the opposite. It’s real. It’s messy. It’s human.

That authenticity cuts through the noise.

2. It builds trust over time.

When you share your journey, people watch you grow.

They see you struggle. They see you learn. They see you improve.

By the time you have something to sell, they already trust you. They’ve been on the journey with you.

That’s a warm audience. Not cold leads.

3. You create content from your real life.

No more staring at blank screens wondering what to write.

Your content comes from what you’re actually doing. What you tried. What worked. What didn’t.

Building in public solves the “what do I post about” problem forever.

What to Share (And What Not to Share)

This is where people get confused.

Building in public doesn’t mean sharing everything. It means sharing strategically.

What to share:

• Projects you’re working on

• Milestones and progress (even small ones)

• Experiments you’re running

• Lessons from failures

• Behind-the-scenes of your process

• Decisions you’re wrestling with

• Tools and resources you’re using

• Feedback you received and how you responded

• Goals you’ve set and progress toward them

What NOT to share:

• Personal drama that doesn’t serve your audience

• Client confidential information

• Complaints without lessons

• Constant negativity

• Anything you’d regret in 5 years

The filter: Would my ideal audience find this valuable or interesting?

If yes, share it. If not, keep it private.

The Build in Public Framework

Here’s a simple framework for turning your journey into content.

1. The Goal Post

Share what you’re working toward.

“I’m building a newsletter about LinkedIn growth. My goal is 1,000 subscribers by the end of the year.”

“I’m trying to land 5 new clients this quarter through LinkedIn content only.”

“I want to post every day for 30 days straight. Here’s why.”

This sets the stage. People know what to follow along for.

2. The Progress Post

Share updates on how it’s going.

“Week 4 of posting daily. Here’s what I’ve learned so far.”

“Just hit 500 newsletter subscribers. Halfway to my goal.”

“Tried a new content format this week. The results surprised me.”

Progress posts keep people engaged. They’re rooting for you.

3. The Lesson Post

Share what you learned from a specific experience.

“I launched my first digital product. It flopped. Here’s what I’d do differently.”

“I changed one thing about my profile and my connection requests doubled.”

“I was mass-rejected 50 times. Then I figured out what I was doing wrong.”

Lesson posts are valuable. They teach through your experience.

4. The Behind-the-Scenes Post

Show the process, not just the result.

“Here’s how I write a LinkedIn post in 15 minutes.”

“My morning routine for content creation.”

“What my weekly LinkedIn workflow actually looks like.”

Behind-the-scenes posts make you relatable. People love seeing how things actually work.

5. The Failure Post

Share what went wrong. And what you learned.

“I just lost my biggest client. Here’s what I’m taking from it.”

“My launch flopped. 3 things I’d do differently.”

“I made this mistake for 6 months before someone told me.”

Failure posts build trust. They show you’re honest and self-aware.

6. The Milestone Post

Celebrate wins. Big and small.

“Just hit 1,000 followers. Here’s what got me here.”

“Landed my first client from LinkedIn. Here’s exactly how it happened.”

“6 months of posting. Here’s what changed.”

Milestone posts inspire others. And they show your progress is real.

Real Examples

Let me show you what building in public looks like in practice.

Example 1: The Goal Post

“I’m starting a challenge.

30 posts in 30 days.

I’ve been inconsistent for months. Time to fix that.

I’ll share what I learn along the way. The wins. The struggles. What works.

Follow along if you want. Day 1 starts tomorrow.

Who wants to join me?”

Example 2: The Lesson Post

“I changed my headline 3 weeks ago.

Old headline: ‘Marketing Consultant’

New headline: ‘I help B2B founders turn LinkedIn into a lead machine’

Since then:

• Profile views up 47%

• Connection requests doubled

• 3 inbound leads

Small change. Big difference.

What does your headline say about you?”

Example 3: The Failure Post

“I sent 50 cold DMs last month.

Responses: 2

Meetings booked: 0

What went wrong:

1. I was pitching too fast

2. Zero personalization

3. No warm-up before reaching out

I’m switching to warm outreach only. I’ll report back in 30 days.

Has anyone else struggled with cold DMs?”

Example 4: The Behind-the-Scenes Post

“Here’s my actual content creation process:

Sunday: Brain dump 10 ideas into Posthero

Monday-Friday: Turn 1 idea into a post each morning (15 min)

Saturday: Review what worked, save ideas for next week

That’s it. No complex system. No content calendar.

Just show up and write.

What’s your process?”

The Mindset Shift

Building in public requires a mindset shift.

You have to be okay with:

• Sharing before you’re “ready”

• Being wrong sometimes

• Showing imperfection

• Not having all the answers

This is uncomfortable at first. But it gets easier.

And the connection you build with your audience is worth it.

People don’t follow perfect. They follow real.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Being too vague.

“Working on some exciting stuff!” tells me nothing.

Be specific. What are you working on? What’s the goal? What happened?

Specificity makes content interesting.

2. Only sharing wins.

If every post is a celebration, people stop believing you.

Share the struggles too. That’s what makes the wins meaningful.

3. Making it all about you.

Building in public isn’t a diary. It needs to be valuable to your audience.

Ask yourself: What can they learn from this? What’s in it for them?

4. Sharing too much personal stuff.

Your audience doesn’t need to know everything.

Keep it relevant to your work, your niche, your journey. Not your personal drama.

5. Quitting too early.

Building in public is a long game. You won’t see results in 2 weeks.

Give it 6 months minimum. Consistency is everything.

Your Homework

This week, try this:

1. Pick one thing you’re working on right now. A goal, a project, a challenge.

2. Write a “Goal Post” sharing what you’re trying to do and why.

3. Commit to sharing 1 update per week on your progress.

4. When something goes wrong, share the lesson. When something goes right, share the milestone.

5. After 30 days, notice how your audience engages differently.

You don’t need to be an expert to create content.

You just need to be on a journey.

And share it.

That’s it for this week.

If you start building in public, reply and tell me what you’re working on. I’d love to follow along.

See you next time.

That’s a wrap for today.

See you next week! If you want more LinkedIn tips, be sure to follow me on LinkedIn (link).

If you love this episode and want to support us, spread the word about us by sharing The LinkedIn Secrets with colleagues. I really appreciate it!

Thank you for reading!

What’d you think of today’s edition?

Help me to understand what you think about this episode. Just reply with a number (1, 2, or 3) to this email.

• 1 - Damn good

• 2 - Meh, do better

• 3 - You didn’t cook it

Your compadre,
Anton “LinkedIn growth strategies” Cherkasov

I break down what works on LinkedIn so you can create content that resonates.

In this issue, you’ll find:

• Why nobody’s reading your posts (it’s not the algorithm)

TOGETHER WITH POSTHERO

Grow your audience faster on LinkedIn. With an AI-powered tool that helps you create content and grow on LinkedIn.

• Create high-converting content that helps you grow on LinkedIn

• Create a weekly content in 76 seconds

• AI Voice assistant for creating content in seconds

Try PostHero for free ->

Why nobody’s reading your posts (it’s not the algorithm)

“The algorithm is broken.”

“LinkedIn is suppressing my reach.”

“My posts used to do well. Now nothing works.”

I hear this every week.

And I get it. It’s frustrating. You put effort into your content. You hit publish. And... crickets.

So you blame the algorithm. It’s the easy answer.

But here’s the truth:

The algorithm isn’t your problem.

Your posts are.

I know that’s hard to hear. But once you accept it, you can actually fix it.

I’ve reviewed hundreds of posts that flopped. They almost always have the same problems. Not algorithm problems. Writing problems. Strategy problems. Fixable problems.

Let me show you what’s really going on.

The Algorithm Excuse

Let’s get this out of the way.

Yes, the algorithm changes. Yes, reach fluctuates. Yes, some posts get unlucky.

But here’s what I’ve noticed:

The people who blame the algorithm usually have posts that wouldn’t perform on any platform.

Weak hooks. Unclear points. No structure. No reason to engage.

Meanwhile, others are growing just fine. Same algorithm. Different results.

The difference isn’t luck. It’s execution.

So let’s look at the real reasons your posts aren’t getting read.

Reason 1: Your Hook Is Weak

This is the #1 killer.

LinkedIn shows 2-3 lines before the “see more” button. If those lines don’t grab attention, nobody clicks.

Your post dies before it starts.

Bad hooks:

“I want to share some thoughts on leadership.”
“Today I’m going to talk about productivity.”
“Here’s something I’ve been thinking about.”

These are not hooks. They’re warm-up sentences. Delete them.

Good hooks:

“I got fired on a Monday. Best thing that ever happened.”
“Most LinkedIn advice is garbage. Here’s why.”
“I almost quit last month.”

One line. Punchy. Creates curiosity or tension.

If your hook doesn’t make someone stop scrolling, nothing else matters.

Reason 2: Your Re-Hook Is Missing

Most people focus on line 1 and forget lines 2-3.

Big mistake.

The re-hook is what keeps them reading after the initial curiosity.

Line 1 gets them in the room. Lines 2-3 slam the door shut.

Bad:

Line 1: “I failed 17 times before I succeeded.”
Line 2: “In this post, I’ll share what I learned.”

The re-hook killed the momentum. It’s boring. It tells me nothing new.

Good:

Line 1: “I failed 17 times before I succeeded.”
Line 2: “Number 12 almost made me quit forever.”

Now I need to know what happened. I’m clicking “see more.”

Every line should pull people to the next line. Especially the first three.

Reason 3: You Buried the Value

Some posts have great insights. But they’re buried in paragraph 7.

Nobody gets to paragraph 7.

Most people skim. They read the hook, scan the middle, and maybe read the end.

If your main point is hiding in the middle, they’ll miss it.

Fix: Put your best stuff early. Don’t save it.

Think of your post like a news article. Lead with the headline. Then explain.

Not: “Let me give you some context first...” (for 5 paragraphs)

Yes: “Here’s the thing that changed everything. Let me explain.”

Reason 4: You’re Writing Walls of Text

Big blocks of text are scary.

People scroll past them. They look like work.

LinkedIn is a mobile-first platform. People scroll with their thumbs. They skim.

If your post looks dense, it feels dense. Even if the content is good.

Fix: Short paragraphs. One to two sentences max.

White space is your friend.

Let your post breathe.

Like this.

Reason 5: Your Post Has No Structure

Good posts are easy to follow.

Bad posts wander. They jump from point to point. They confuse the reader.

Confused readers don’t engage. They scroll.

Fix: Use a clear structure.

Some options:

• Hook → Story → Lesson → Question

• Hook → Problem → Solution → CTA

• Hook → List of points → Summary → P.S.

Know your structure before you write. It keeps you focused.

Reason 6: You’re Writing for Everyone

“This post is for anyone who wants to improve.”

No. This post is for no one.

When you write for everyone, you write for no one. The message becomes generic. Forgettable.

Fix: Write for one specific person.

Picture them. What’s their job? Their problem? Their goal?

Write directly to that person.

The more specific you are, the more people relate. Counterintuitive but true.

Reason 7: There’s No Reason to Comment

Engagement drives reach. Comments especially.

If nobody comments, LinkedIn shows your post to fewer people.

But most posts give no reason to comment.

They end with:

“Hope this helps!”
“Thanks for reading.”
“That’s all for today.”

Dead ends. Nothing to respond to.

Fix: End with a question. Make it easy to answer.

“What’s a mistake you’ve made that turned into a lesson?”
“Have you tried this?”
“Which of these resonates most?”

Invite the conversation. Don’t just end the post.

Reason 8: You’re Not Engaging After Posting

This one surprises people.

Posting isn’t enough. What you do in the first hour matters.

If you post and disappear, LinkedIn thinks nobody cares. Reach drops.

If you reply to comments, add pinned comments, and engage with others, the post gets pushed.

Fix: Stay active for 30-60 minutes after posting.

Reply to every comment. Quickly. Keep the conversation going.

Your job isn’t done when you hit publish. It’s just starting.

Reason 9: Your Profile Is Confusing

This one’s sneaky.

People see your post. They’re intrigued. They click your profile.

And they find... a mess.

Unclear headline. No banner. Generic About section. No idea what you do.

They leave. They don’t follow. They don’t engage again.

Fix: Audit your profile. Make sure it’s crystal clear who you are, what you do, and who you help.

I covered this in detail in a previous newsletter: The Profile Audit Checklist. Check it out if you missed it.

Reason 10: You’re Not Posting Enough

Sometimes the problem is simple.

You’re not posting enough to get traction.

Once a week isn’t enough. The algorithm forgets you. Your audience forgets you.

Fix: Post 3-5 times per week minimum.

Consistency compounds. The more you show up, the more people see you.

You can’t build momentum with occasional posts.

The Real Problem

Here’s the uncomfortable truth.

The algorithm isn’t out to get you.

Your posts just need work.

And that’s actually good news. Because you can fix your posts. You can’t fix the algorithm.

Every problem I listed above is solvable. Today.

Better hooks. Clearer structure. Stronger endings. More consistency.

These aren’t secrets. They’re fundamentals.

Master the fundamentals and you’ll stop blaming the algorithm.

Your Homework

This week, do this:

1. Look at your last 5 posts that flopped.

2. Check each one against this list. Which problems do you see?

3. Rewrite one of them. Fix the hook. Fix the structure. Add a question at the end.

4. Post the new version. See what happens.

5. For your next post, write the hook first. Don’t move on until it’s great.

The algorithm isn’t your enemy.

Weak posts are.

Fix the posts. Watch the results change.

That’s it for this week.

If you figure out what was killing your posts, reply and let me know. I’d love to hear what you fixed.

See you next time.

I break down what works on LinkedIn so you can create content that resonates.

In this issue, you’ll find:

• The profile audit checklist: 15 things to fix this week

TOGETHER WITH POSTHERO

Grow your audience faster on LinkedIn. With an AI-powered tool that helps you create content and grow on LinkedIn.

• Create high-converting content that helps you grow on LinkedIn

• Create a weekly content in 76 seconds

• AI Voice assistant for creating content in seconds

Try PostHero for free ->

The Profile Audit Checklist: 15 Things to Fix This Week

Your content is great.

Your posts are solid. Your hooks are sharp. You’re showing up consistently.

But something’s off.

People see your posts. They click your profile. And then... nothing. They don’t follow. They don’t connect. They don’t reach out.

The problem isn’t your content.

It’s your profile.

Your profile is your landing page. Every post, every comment, every DM leads people back to it. If your profile is confusing, boring, or unclear, you’re leaking opportunities every single day.

I’ve audited hundreds of profiles. Most have the same problems.

Today I’m giving you the checklist I use. 15 things to fix. You can do all of them this week.

Let’s go.

Part 1: The First Impression

1. Profile Photo: Is it clear, professional, and friendly?

Your face should take up 60-70% of the frame.

Good lighting. Simple background. Looking at the camera.

No sunglasses. No group photos. No logos. No photos from 10 years ago.

Smile. People connect with people who look approachable.

If your photo is outdated or blurry, replace it today. Takes 5 minutes.

2. Banner: Does it have a clear message and CTA?

99% of LinkedIn banners are wasted space.

A nice landscape photo. A company logo. Random graphics.

Useless.

Your banner should tell visitors:

• What you do

• Who you help

• What to do next (CTA)

Example: “I help B2B founders generate leads with LinkedIn content. Download my free guide → link”

One clear message. One clear action.

3. Headline: Does it speak to your ideal client?

Most headlines are job titles.

“Marketing Manager at Company X”
“Founder & CEO”
“Sales Professional”

Boring. Tells me nothing about how you can help me.

Better formula: I help [who] do [what] through [how].

“I help founders build personal brands that generate leads”
“Helping freelancers land clients without cold outreach”
“LinkedIn content strategist for B2B companies”

Your headline should make your ideal client think: “This person gets me.”

4. Name Field: Is it clean?

Your name should be your name. That’s it.

Don’t stuff it with emojis, credentials, or keywords.

Bad: “John Smith 🚀 | LinkedIn Expert™ | Author | Speaker | Coach”

Good: “John Smith”

Keep it clean. Keep it professional.

Part 2: The About Section

5. First Line: Does it hook them?

Most people won’t click “see more” on your About section.

So your first line needs to grab attention.

Don’t start with: “I am a passionate professional with 15 years of experience in...”

Boring. Next.

Start with something that pulls them in:

“I’ve helped 50+ founders turn LinkedIn into their #1 lead source.”
“Most LinkedIn advice is garbage. Here’s what actually works.”
“I was mass-rejected 200+ times on Upwork. Then everything changed.”

Hook first. Bio second.

6. The Story: Do you explain why you do this?

People don’t just want to know what you do.

They want to know why.

What’s your story? What led you here? What problem did you face that you now solve for others?

Share the journey. Make it human.

2-3 short paragraphs max. No walls of text.

7. The Offer: Is it crystal clear what you do?

After your story, get specific.

Who do you help? What do you help them do? What’s the outcome?

“I help B2B founders create LinkedIn content that books calls.”
“I work with freelancers who want to land premium clients without cold outreach.”

One core offer. Clear outcome. No confusion.

8. The CTA: Do you tell them what to do next?

End your About section with a clear next step.

“DM me ‘CONTENT’ and I’ll send you my free guide.”
“Book a free call: [link]”
“Follow me for daily LinkedIn tips.”

Don’t leave them hanging. Tell them exactly what to do.

Part 3: The Featured Section

9. Featured Section: Is it set up?

Most people ignore this completely. Big mistake.

Your Featured section is prime real estate. It’s visible right at the top.

Use it to showcase:

• Your best-performing posts

• Your lead magnet or free resource

• A link to book a call

• Your newsletter or website

1-3 items max. Keep it focused.

10. Order: Is your most important item first?

The first featured item gets the most clicks.

Put your highest-priority CTA first. Lead magnet. Booking link. Best content.

Don’t bury the good stuff.

Part 4: Experience & Credentials

11. Current Position: Does it match your offer?

Your current position should reinforce what you do.

If you’re a freelancer or founder, don’t leave an old corporate job as your current position.

Create a position for your business. Use it to describe what you do and who you help.

12. Past Experience: Is it relevant?

You don’t need to list every job you’ve ever had.

Keep the positions that build credibility for what you do now.

Remove the random summer jobs from 15 years ago. They’re not helping.

13. Skills: Are your top 2 skills relevant?

LinkedIn shows your top 2 skills prominently.

Make sure they match what you want to be known for.

Go to your Skills section. Reorder them. Put the most relevant ones first.

Part 5: The Small Details

14. Custom URL: Is it clean?

Your LinkedIn URL should be: linkedin.com/in/yourname

Not: linkedin.com/in/john-smith-8374629172634

Go to Edit Profile → Contact Info → Edit your custom URL.

Clean URLs look more professional. And they’re easier to share.

15. Creator Mode: Is it on (if it makes sense)?

Creator Mode changes a few things:

• “Follow” becomes the default button (instead of “Connect”)

• Your Featured section moves higher

• You can add topics you post about

If you’re building an audience, turn it on.

If you’re mainly networking or job hunting, maybe leave it off.

Decide based on your goals.

The Quick Audit

Here’s the full checklist in one place:

First Impression:
☐ Profile photo is clear, professional, friendly
☐ Banner has a message and CTA
☐ Headline speaks to ideal client
☐ Name field is clean

About Section:
☐ First line hooks attention
☐ Story explains why you do this
☐ Offer is crystal clear
☐ CTA tells them what to do next

Featured Section:
☐ Featured section is set up
☐ Most important item is first

Experience & Credentials:
☐ Current position matches your offer
☐ Past experience is relevant
☐ Top 2 skills are relevant

Small Details:
☐ Custom URL is clean
☐ Creator Mode is on (if applicable)

How Long This Takes

You can fix all 15 things in 1-2 hours.

Some items take 5 minutes (custom URL, reordering skills).

Some take longer (rewriting your About section, creating a new banner).

Block 2 hours this week. Do the full audit. Fix everything.

Then revisit every 3 months. Your profile should evolve as you evolve.

Your Homework

This week, do this:

1. Print out the checklist (or save it somewhere).

2. Go through your profile item by item.

3. Fix everything that needs fixing.

4. Check out more examples of good profiles here. Seeing what works helps you apply it to your own.

5. Ask a friend or peer to review it. Fresh eyes catch things you miss.

6. Watch what happens to your profile views and follow rate.

Your profile is working 24/7. Even when you’re sleeping.

Make sure it’s working for you, not against you.

That’s it for this week.

If you do the full profile audit, reply and tell me what you changed. I’d love to hear what you fixed.

See you next time.

That’s a wrap for today.

See you next week! If you want more LinkedIn tips, be sure to follow me on LinkedIn (link).

If you love this episode and want to support us, spread the word about us by sharing The LinkedIn Secrets with colleagues. I really appreciate it!

Thank you for reading!

What’d you think of today’s edition?

Help me to understand what you think about this episode. Just reply with a number (1, 2, or 3) to this email.

• 1 - Damn good

• 2 - Meh, do better

• 3 - You didn’t cook it

Your compadre,
Anton “LinkedIn growth strategies” Cherkasov

I analyze what works on LinkedIn to help you create content that connects.

What’s hot this week: OpenClaw is still trending. More and more people are posting tips and use cases for creating LinkedIn content with it.

OpenClaw is the most advanced AI assistant framework, and you can try it without code using this 1-click setup on ClawPlane.

In this issue, you’ll find:

• The 30 minute daily LinkedIn routine (steal my exact schedule)

TOGETHER WITH POSTHERO

Grow your audience faster on LinkedIn. With an AI-powered tool that helps you create content and grow on LinkedIn.

• Create high-converting content that helps you grow on LinkedIn

• Create a weekly content in 76 seconds

• AI Voice assistant for creating content in seconds

Try PostHero for free ->

The 30 minute daily LinkedIn routine (steal my exact schedule)

“I don’t have time for LinkedIn.”

I hear this constantly.

People think you need hours every day to grow on this platform. That it’s a full-time job. That only people with no life can succeed here.

Not true.

I’ve been posting for over 2 years. I’ve built a real audience. Generated leads. Landed clients.

And most days? I spend 30 minutes on LinkedIn.

That’s it.

The secret isn’t more time. It’s using your time better.

Today I’m sharing my exact daily routine. Minute by minute. Steal it.

Why Most People Waste Time on LinkedIn

Here’s what happens.

You open LinkedIn “to engage a bit.”

You start scrolling. You see an interesting post. You read the comments. You click on someone’s profile. You check their featured section. You wonder what they do. You scroll some more.

45 minutes later, you’ve done nothing productive.

No posts. No comments. No DMs. No progress.

Just scrolling.

Sound familiar?

The problem isn’t LinkedIn. The problem is no structure.

When you don’t have a routine, you default to passive scrolling. And passive scrolling doesn’t grow your business.

The 30-Minute Daily LinkedIn Routine

Here’s my exact schedule.

30 minutes. 4 blocks. Every workday.

Block 1: Check Notifications (5 minutes)

First thing I do: check what happened since yesterday.

• Who commented on my posts?

• Who replied to my comments?

• Who mentioned me?

• Any new connection requests?

I’m not scrolling the feed yet. Just checking notifications.

For comments on my posts: I reply to all of them. Quick replies are fine. Just acknowledge people.

For connection requests: I accept if they look relevant. Ignore if they look like spam.

5 minutes. Done.

Block 2: Engage With Strategic Accounts (10 minutes)

This is where most growth happens.

I have a mental list of accounts I engage with regularly:

• 5-10 ideal clients

• 5-10 creators in my niche

• 5-10 peers at my level

• A few smaller creators I want to support

I check their recent posts. I leave thoughtful comments. Not “Great post!” but actual value.

I aim for 10 comments in this block. About 1 minute per comment.

This puts me on their radar. Their audience sees me. My network sees my comments.

10 minutes. 10 comments. Done.

Block 3: Check Profile Views and DMs (5 minutes)

Now I check who’s been looking at me.

Profile views are warm signals. These people are curious about me. They clicked on purpose.

If someone fits my ICP, I send a quick DM:

“Hey [name], saw you checked out my profile. Curious what brought you here?”

Simple. No pitch. Just opening a conversation.

For existing DM conversations: I reply to anyone waiting on me. Keep conversations moving.

5 minutes. Done.

Block 4: Post or Prep Content (10 minutes)

Last block is for content.

Some days I post. Some days I prep for tomorrow.

If I’m posting today:

• Final review of my scheduled post

• Make sure it looks good

• Add any last tweaks

If I’m prepping:

• Dump raw ideas into Posthero

• Turn one idea into a rough draft

• Schedule it for later

I batch my content weekly (that’s a separate 60-minute session). But this 10-minute daily block keeps things moving.

10 minutes. Done.

The Full Breakdown

Here it is in one view:

Block

Time

Activity

1

5 min

Check notifications, reply to comments

2

10 min

Comment on 10 strategic accounts

3

5 min

Check profile views, send/reply to DMs

4

10 min

Post or prep content

Total

30 min

That’s the routine.

30 minutes. Every workday. Consistent growth.

When to Do Your 30 Minutes

Timing matters.

I do my 30 minutes in the afternoon Bali time. That hits morning in Europe and early morning in the US. Peak scrolling hours for my audience.

But here’s what matters more than perfect timing: doing it at the same time every day.

Build the habit. Make it automatic.

Some options:

• First thing in the morning (before your brain gets busy)

• Right after lunch (natural break in your day)

• End of workday (transition ritual)

Pick one. Stick to it. Same time every day.

What If You Have More Time?

30 minutes is the minimum.

If you have more time, here’s how to use it:

45 minutes: Add more commenting. Go from 10 to 20 comments.

60 minutes: Add 15 minutes for DM outreach. Proactively message warm leads.

90 minutes: Add 30 minutes for content batching. Write 2-3 posts instead of prepping one.

But don’t feel like you need more than 30. Consistency beats intensity.

30 focused minutes every day will outperform 3 random hours twice a week.

What NOT to Do During Your 30 Minutes

A few traps to avoid:

Don’t scroll the main feed aimlessly. Go straight to notifications, then to specific accounts. No browsing.

Don’t read posts without engaging. If you read something, comment. Otherwise you’re just consuming.

Don’t spend 10 minutes on one comment. Keep comments to 1 minute each. Good enough beats perfect.

Don’t check LinkedIn outside your 30-minute block. This is key. One block per day. Then close it.

The goal is focused action, not endless scrolling.

The Compound Effect

Here’s what happens when you do this for a year.

30 minutes x 5 days = 2.5 hours per week

2.5 hours x 50 weeks = 125 hours per year

In 125 hours you’ll have:

• Replied to hundreds of comments

• Left 2,500+ comments on others’ posts

• Sent hundreds of DMs

• Posted 250+ times

• Built real relationships

That’s a serious LinkedIn presence. Built in just 30 minutes a day.

It compounds. Every comment, every reply, every DM adds up.

Most people overestimate what they can do in a week. They underestimate what they can do in a year.

Your Homework

This week, try this:

1. Set a daily 30-minute LinkedIn block. Put it in your calendar.

2. Follow the 4-block structure: Notifications (5) → Comments (10) → DMs (5) → Content (10)

3. Track how many comments you leave each day. Aim for 10 minimum.

4. At the end of the week, notice the difference. More replies. More profile views. More conversations.

30 minutes. That’s all it takes.

Stop telling yourself you don’t have time.

You do. You just need a system.

That’s it for this week.

If you try the 30-minute routine, reply and let me know how it goes. I’d love to hear what results you see.

See you next time.