When I received the notification that I had been named a LinkedIn Top Voice, I was genuinely surprised. I hadn’t set out with this goal in mind or followed any secret blueprint for success. In fact, if you asked me what the exact formula for earning this recognition is, I’d probably shrug.
But as I reflected, I realized that my consistent engagement with other alumni from my Doctor of Healthcare Administration (DHA) program at Virginia University of Lynchburg (VUL) and focus on public policy and social justice may have been the key. Over the past year, I’ve prioritized contributing to discussions that resonate with me – educational equity, healthcare reform, and the ethical implications of technology.
There wasn’t a master plan. I simply enjoyed sharing insights and engaging with those who shared a passion for the same causes.
Consistency and Authenticity Stand Out
One thing I have learned through this experience is the value of showing up consistently. I didn’t post every day, but I stayed active, whether by sharing articles, offering commentary on current healthcare trends, or responding to thought-provoking posts from others. The topics I covered weren’t driven by what I thought would gain traction but by what genuinely interested me.
The focus was on authenticity – engaging deeply with ideas that mattered to me, even if they weren’t universally popular or mainstream. I believe this sincerity was recognized by LinkedIn’s algorithm (and perhaps, the human reviewers) as valuable.
In a digital landscape full of clickbait and surface-level content, staying true to your expertise and interests can set you apart.
Engaging, Not Broadcasting
Another factor that may have contributed to the recognition is the way I approached LinkedIn as a platform for conversations rather than a soapbox. Whenever I posted, I actively responded to comments and questions.
More importantly, I made an effort to engage with others’ content. Supporting fellow VUL alumni and healthcare professionals by sharing their insights, commenting thoughtfully, and asking questions fostered stronger connections within my network.
I learned that interaction drives visibility. It’s not just about the number of posts but the quality of those interactions. LinkedIn rewards engagement – the more genuine conversations you have, the more your voice seems to carry across the platform.
Lessons for Others (Even Without a Formula)
If I could offer one piece of advice to others hoping to build their presence on LinkedIn, it would be this: focus on what you care about and engage meaningfully. Don’t chase trends. Instead, reflect on your experiences, share insights from your field, and cultivate conversations that matter to you.
I’m not sure if I’ll receive this recognition again next year, but that’s not the goal. The value lies in the connections made, the ideas exchanged, and the community built along the way.
So, if you’re wondering how to stand out, perhaps the best starting point is to simply show up and speak from the heart.
