Want to know what it really feels like when your LinkedIn post goes viral?
Spoiler alert: it’s not always the fairytale ending you might imagine.
I wanted to use my recent experience as a lesson for you all and to share the ups and downs of what happens when your post gets more attention than you ever anticipated.
Let’s set the scene…
A few weeks ago, I wanted to share my thoughts on DM etiquette on LinkedIn and seek the opinions of the LinkedIn community on whether an abrupt response I received was rude. My aim was straightforward: to remind everyone of the importance of professionalism and kindness in our interactions and to encourage a discussion on this topic.
But instead of the supportive comments I anticipated, I was met with a barrage of criticism.
Comments like “That’s a pitch slap!” and “You’re just trying to sell!” flooded in, alongside accusations of being “shady” and even threats to block me. Ouch!
Now, we’re at a crossroads…
In moments like these, you find yourself at a crossroads. There are three paths you can take:
- Ignore the comments: Pretend they don’t exist and move on.
- Hit back defensively: Respond with sharp retorts that may escalate the situation.
- Demonstrate understanding and empathy: Take a step back, listen, and respond thoughtfully.
I chose option three.
Here’s what this experience taught me
This experience opened my eyes to several important lessons about communication and perception on social media:
Suspicion is real: Many people are sceptical of those offering help online. They often assume there is an ulterior motive behind every gesture. In my case, I wasn’t trying to sell anything; this person simply wasn’t my ideal customer profile (ICP). I genuinely wanted to help.
Timing matters: Asking questions like these too soon in a conversation can backfire. By round four of our exchange, I may have pushed too hard, too fast.
Diverse perspectives exist: One person’s perception can differ drastically from another’s. What seems rude to one may come off as straightforward to another.
Feedback is golden: Despite the negativity, the feedback I received was invaluable. It prompted me to reassess my DM strategy, which is something I’m incredibly grateful for.
It’s not all doom and gloom; there can be a silver lining.
Interestingly enough, this viral post led to a surge in connection requests, around 500 new connections, and even a few promising leads! So yes, while not all virality is positive, it can still yield unexpected benefits if you handle it well.
Navigating virality the right way
If you aspire for your content to go viral, remember that not all attention is good attention. How you respond to praise and criticism can define your online presence far more than the initial post itself.
When faced with backlash, take a moment to breathe and assess the situation calmly. Engage with empathy rather than defensiveness; it can transform a negative interaction into an opportunity for growth and connection.
Here’s my final thoughts on the experience
Going viral on LinkedIn or any other platform can be a double-edged sword. Embrace the lessons learned along the way, and don’t shy away from sharing your experiences with others. After all, authenticity resonates far deeper than perfection ever can.
And don’t let going viral scare you! Keep posting, keep engaging, and remember that every positive or negative interaction is a stepping stone towards building a new relationship. And with new relationships come opportunities!
If anyone wants to grab some popcorn and see how my viral nightmare unfolded, check out my LinkedIn post here.
