Last Updated on March 19, 2025
This has been an exciting year for me, especially being named a LinkedIn Top Voice (blue badge) which took me to a new level of engagement. I must admit that it came as a complete surprise, like an early, unexpected birthday gift. The LinkedIn Top Voice designation is by invitation only and comes with a Top Voice badge that’s added to your profile header. It’s like a badge of honor for me. The prestige of being named a Top Voice (previously known as Influencers before October, 2022) distinguishes you from others on the LinkedIn platform and makes you stand out. While there is no secret sauce to becoming a Top Voice, below are some tips to help you achieve the coveted blue badge.
6 Ways to Differentiate Yourself on LinkedIn and Reach the Top Voice Level
1. Consistent Posting
I consistently post on three consecutive weekdays (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday). Posting on sequential days powers up your presence and overall impact on the platform.
2. Industry Edge
To be considered as a Top Voice, you must establish yourself as an industry leader over time. This includes being authoritative and offering up your thoughts, opinions, and also projections, for your particular sector.
3. Well Rounded Content
It’s a good idea to tap into all of LinkedIn’s features and mix up your content to include traditional posts with graphics, polls, LinkedIn articles, audio-only podcasts, or a newsletter. Short form video counts for a lot on the platform, so experiment with simple videos recorded on a smartphone to more sophisticated, edited productions that may include graphics. (Read my related blog here). For example, I do a semi-weekly LinkedIn Live show called PR Patter which is recorded on the streaming platform, Restream; these appear under my LinkedIn Events and also Videos. Restream also allows my broadcasts to go directly to my YouTube and Facebook accounts so they get a decent amount of coverage.
4. Integrity
Being honest and transparent on LinkedIn counts for a lot as this is how one builds an audience and engagement. People want to connect with other humans on the platform so it’s important to be authentic no matter your executive status. Microsoft founder Bill Gates does this extremely well, as does the podcast host, Farnoosh Torabi.
5. Engagement
In order to become a Top Voice, LinkedIn wants to see that you’re not only posting but are engaged with your audience. So, make sure you are responding to people’s comments with some regularity.
6. Following
I have a decent following of 4,700, but it’s certainly not stratospheric. While a Top Voice should have a significant number of followers, the amount doesn’t have to be expansive to be considered.
For more tips, download my free tip sheet, Make Your C-Suite Stand Out on LinkedIn.
