How I Gained 468K LinkedIn Followers (and Make $1.1M/Month)

Introduction

In this tutorial, you will learn how to grow your LinkedIn following from zero to 100,000 using a proven seven-step system developed by Matt Gray. This comprehensive guide is designed for anyone looking to leverage LinkedIn for personal branding and business growth, even if you're just starting out.

Step 1: Set Up Your Profitable Profile

Creating an appealing LinkedIn profile is crucial as it serves as your first impression. Follow these steps:

• Update Your Profile Picture: Use a high-quality headshot.

  • Use your phone's back camera for better quality.
  • Find natural light, preferably on a cloudy day, and take the photo at a 90° angle.
  • Use portrait mode to blur the background.
  • Edit the photo using apps like Pixlr, Lightroom, or Photoshop.

• Add Your Company: Include your company’s logo and a compelling description on your profile.

• Craft Your Tagline: Create a concise tagline that reflects who you are and the value you provide. Aim to own a specific word in your audience's mind.

Step 2: Create Engaging Content

Content creation is essential for attracting followers. Here’s how to get started:

• Post Consistently: Aim to post daily, starting with a Monday, Wednesday, and Friday schedule if needed.

• Understand Your Audience: Use the "Ikigai" exercise to identify:

  • What you love
  • What you are good at
  • What the world needs
  • What you can be paid for

• Develop Content Categories: Establish subtopics based on your Ikigai to create a content schedule.

Step 3: Use the LinkedIn Idea Machine

Generate content ideas using this framework:

• Brainstorm Topics: Create lists of:

  • Tools
  • Facts
  • Guides
  • Frameworks
  • Deep-dive content like data stories and industry breakdowns.

• Reflect on Your Experiences: Use the "5-Year Reflection Framework" to identify lessons learned, skills acquired, and advice you wish you had five years ago.

Step 4: Craft Compelling Posts

Your posts need to grab attention. Follow these tips:

• Create Scroll-Stopping Hooks: The first three lines are crucial for engagement.
• Utilize Power Formats:
  • Long Form List: Combine a hook with a detailed list.
  • Carousel Posts: Use a series of images to convey information.
  • Hook Stacking: String together statements that build on each other without numbering.

Step 5: Engage with Your Audience

Building relationships is key to growth:

• Respond to Comments: Dedicate time daily to engage with comments on your posts.
• Join or Create Groups: Connect with other creators to share insights and support one another's growth.

Step 6: Leverage Analytics and Tools

Use tools to enhance your content strategy:

• Use Tapo X: This tool provides analytics and insights from top creators, helping you to refine your content strategy.
• Turn on Creator Mode: This feature allows you to increase your follower conversions.

Step 7: Convert Attention into Revenue

The final step is to monetize your audience:

• Promote Your Newsletter: Create a ConvertKit newsletter to transition your LinkedIn audience into a loyal subscriber base.
• Edit Posts for External Links: After your post gains traction, edit it to include links to your newsletter or products without being penalized by LinkedIn's algorithm.

Conclusion

By implementing these seven steps, you can effectively grow your LinkedIn following and leverage it to generate revenue for your business. Start with a strong profile, create valuable content, and engage with your audience consistently. As you build your presence, consider transitioning your audience to your owned platforms like newsletters for long-term growth. Good luck on your journey to 100,000 LinkedIn followers!