Hello Networkers! I’m on vacation this week, so I’m giving you a “shortie” post: one of my own top tips, plus some LinkedIn news of the week.

Reply back to this email and let me know what you think, I may send more of my own LinkedIn secrets every few weeks if you like them.

What’s new related to LinkedIn? Here’s what caught my eye this week.

• Why are layoffs so bright and cheerful on LinkedIn? (Slate)

• Are we having a Hot LinkedIn Summer? (The Daily Pennsylvanian)

• LinkedIn might be the hottest NYC real estate app (Gothamist)

If you’re not already doing this: it’s the #1 thing that will help you grow your LinkedIn presence.

My secret to LinkedIn? Commenting.

Commenting on other people's content has the magic power to transform your LinkedIn experience.

When you do consistent outbound commenting you get:

- A stronger network
- Increased online visibility
- Noticed by potential clients
- To be seen as a thought leader
- Stronger relationships with partners
- More impressions & engagement on your content

"But commenting on stranger's posts feels awkward," you say.

I hear you.

It took me 18 out of the 20 years I've been on LinkedIn to get comfortable with outbound commenting.

Here are a few things I've learned to get over that awkward feeling:

1. Start small
   ↳ Like posts before moving on to commenting
 
2. Keep comments short and positive
   ↳ A simple compliment or agreement is a good start
 
3. Relate to your own experience
   ↳ Share a brief story or your experience with the post's subject
 
4. Ask questions
   ↳ Posing a question shows genuine interest and starts a conversation

5. Engage with connections first
   ↳ It's less intimidating to engage with people you are connected to

6. Eventually, go for well-known strangers
   ↳ With practice, you'll be ready to comment on big creator's posts, or those of industry leaders

7. Stay positive!
   ↳ Remember that every comment you leave is an opportunity for growth

Don’t post and ghost! Commenting creates community and will reward you with impressions, engagement, and follower growth.

This was published originally on LinkedIn—read it here.

That’s all for now—I look forward to seeing you again next week for a full issue with a new Networker interview.