It’s time we talked about where you’re hanging your words – you know, your creative insights, your advice, and your expertise.
Are you posting all that valuable content on LinkedIn first, before it even graces the pages of your own website?
Now, don’t get me wrong, LinkedIn’s like a lively after hours party – it’s buzzing, and you’ll definitely meet some interesting people there.
But, should it be the first place you unveil your brand-new, shiny content? Maybe not, and here’s why.
Your website is your window to the world
Imagine working hard to run up some awesome curtains, then hanging them in your neighbour’s window instead of your own. Passers-by can’t help but admire them, right? But the compliments go to your neighbour, not you. That’s kind of what happens when you post your content directly to LinkedIn before your own site.
The thing is, your content is your creation, and it’s only fair you get the credit for it. Placing it first on your own site ensures you’re the master of your masterpiece. After that, you can share it far and wide, including on LinkedIn.
But why is this order so important?
Google and SEO benefits
Picture Google as a busy detective, always on the lookout for new content to show its users. When you post your content on LinkedIn before your own site, Google thinks LinkedIn is the original author. As a result, you don’t get those precious SEO benefits; you know, those little boosts that help your website gain visibility in the search engine world.
LinkedIn is not the only fruit
Plus, there’s the thing about your audience. Content on LinkedIn usually only reaches people on LinkedIn. It’s like throwing a party but only inviting folks from one social circle. On the other hand, when you post on your website first, it’s like throwing open your doors to everyone – anyone who searches for related content can stumble upon your amazing insights.
What if it all goes wrong?
Another thing to remember is the scary possibility of LinkedIn shutting down or banning your account. In that case, all your posts would vanish faster than ice cream on a hot day. If that’s where you’ve been storing your entire content collection, you’re suddenly left with nothing. Not an ideal scenario, is it?
Instead, imagine your website as your own personal library. When you post your content there first, you’re continuously adding to your collection, curating a place of knowledge that is truly yours.
Here’s what you can do:
- Write your content, your insights, your stories.
- Post them first on your own website as blogs or articles.
- Do a bit of SEO tuning, if you know how.
- Add links to other related areas of your site – that’s like creating a treasure map for your readers.
- Then ask Google, using Google Search Console, to index your new page.
- After a couple of days, take your content to the LinkedIn party – it’s absolutely fine to just copy and paste, if it fits!
You’re now in control of your own content. You’re not dependent on LinkedIn’s whims, and people who aren’t on LinkedIn can still discover your insights. Plus, you’re complying with Google’s E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authority, Trust) guidelines. It’s a win-win situation!
So, if you’ve been putting all your content eggs in the LinkedIn basket, it’s time to redistribute. Revisit your older posts and see what would make good blog posts or articles on your website. And switch your routine from ‘post on LinkedIn daily’ to ‘post on my website, then LinkedIn’.
Need some help with this? Let’s talk! Or grab me on LinkedIn.
