Easy Posting Process: Upload documents from various sources, choose a title, write a brief description, add 2-5 relevant hashtags, set viewership permissions, and post.
Post-Upload Management: Editing the document is not possible; however, you can edit the description, download, embed, reshare, or view analytics.
Document Types and Benefits: Ideal for sharing white papers, case studies, and infographics to engage connections, spark conversations, and demonstrate expertise.
Optimization Strategies: Convert content to PDFs for better presentation, use visual tools like PowerPoint or Canva for impact, and adhere to best practices like concise titles, relevant hashtags, and conversational language.
Creating Document Posts is easy. Click on the “Start a post” button at the top of your LinkedIn Feed.
Then, click the “Add a document” button in the pop up window.
You will be prompted to upload a document in the “Share a document” window. You can upload your document from your computer, Dropbox, or Google Drive.
In this window, you are also notified that LinkedIn members who can view your post will be able to download your document as a PDF.
After you’ve chosen how you want to upload your document, the following prompt will ask you to select a Title for your document.
The next window will require 4 actions from you:
1. Write a short description for your Document Post
2. Add relevant hashtags (2-5 is enough)
3. Choose who will be able to view and download your document
4. Review everything once again and click “Post” when you’re sure everything is in order
Congrats! You’ve posted your first LinkedIn Document Post.
Keep in mind that you can edit the description or remove the post, but you cannot edit the document itself.
Once posted, you’ll have options to download, embed, reshare, and view content analytics.
Sharing a document on LinkedIn has multiple benefits.
Whether it’s a white paper, blog post, or insightful article, sharing documents engages your connections and initiates industry-relevant conversations.
Cover a Lot of Information in an Engaging Way
LinkedIn’s document sharing allows embedding of rich media, enhancing engagement and interactivity of your content.
Spark Conversation with Like-Minded Professionals
Sharing documents connects you with peers interested in similar topics, fostering dialogue and networking.
Demonstrate Topic Authority
If you have valuable insights, don’t hesitate to share them on LinkedIn. It can elevate your profile and establish you as an industry expert.
When creating a document for LinkedIn, focus on what’s most valuable to your audience. This could be a case study, white paper, or an update on a new project. The goal is to provide value and affirm your expertise.
Here’s a list of ideal content for a LinkedIn Document Post:
Showcase your thought leadership on LinkedIn with document posts. Here are some tips and tricks to optimize your posts and save time and effort.
Convert Word documents into PDFs
PDFs are more efficient than Word files, offering faster load times and less bandwidth usage. PDFs maintain document integrity, ensuring your readers see your content as intended.
Repurpose content and turn it into PDFs
Convert not only Word documents but also other content into PDFs for LinkedIn Document Posts. Repurposing content increases your content output. This includes:
Use tools like Powerpoint or Canva for compelling documents
In a competitive job market, making a visual impact is crucial. Powerpoint and Canva are excellent tools for creating eye-catching documents that stand out.
A LinkedIn document acts as an online portfolio, showcasing your skills and experience on a platform easily accessible to potential partners or clients. Follow these best practices:
Write a Title for Your Document
A title is essential and limited to 58 characters or less. It’s surprising how often this is overlooked.
Write a Short Description
Though optional, a captivating short description enhances attention and shareability of your Document Posts.
Use Relevant Hashtags for Exposure
On LinkedIn, hashtags can significantly extend your reach. They connect you with users outside your immediate network.
Keep it Brief
While documents can be extensive, aim for 8 to 25 pages. Only go longer for in-depth content like white papers or academic papers.
Use Attractive Visuals
High-quality, relevant visuals enhance comprehension and appeal. They break text monotony and emphasize key points.
Create a Clean Looking Starting Slide
Use simple, stylish graphics and a professional font. Avoid overuse of colors or complex patterns. Stick to a harmonious color scheme.
Use Conversational Language
Engage your network with conversational language, making you approachable and relatable, crucial for relationship-building.
Q: Can you add multiple documents to a LinkedIn Document Post?
A: Currently, you can add only one document per post.
Q: What is the difference between Document Posts and Articles?
A: Document Posts are for long-format content, up to 300MB or 300 pages, while Articles are for medium-length content, up to 3,000 characters.
Q: What are the limitations of Document Posts?
A: The file size is capped at 100MB or 300 pages. Supported formats include PPT, PPTX, DOC, DOCX, and PDF. You cannot edit the document after publishing.
Q: Who can download my document?
A: Anyone viewing your post can download the document. Visibility options include Anyone, Anyone + X, Connections only, Group members, and Event Attendees.
Q: Can I disable the document download option and make it read-only?
A: Currently, LinkedIn does not offer a read-only mode for documents.
Q: Can I upload my documents from Google Drive?
A: Yes, and you can also upload from your computer and Dropbox.
Q: Why am I getting an error when trying to publish my document?
A: Common issues include no Title, exceeding 300 pages or 100MB limits, and unsupported formats.
Q: Can I share my documents only with individuals?
A: LinkedIn does not currently support individual sharing.
Q: Where can I find my LinkedIn Document Posts?
A: Find your published documents in Posts & Activities under the “Me” section.
Q: How can I download a document I find on LinkedIn?
A: View the document in Full-Screen Mode and click the Download icon in the top right corner.
