Viral LinkedIn Topics (Part 1)

Hey there, it's Will McTighe here. Between March and October 2024, I grew my LinkedIn following from 4,000 to over 190,000. Along the way, I've noticed certain topics that people absolutely go mad for on LinkedIn.

This is the first part of a series where I'll share these viral topics with you.

But before we dive into these 5 hot topics, let's chat about some underlying platform dynamics that influence what works and what doesn't:

• Professional Visibility: LinkedIn is a professional network, so your connections—including colleagues and clients—can see what you engage with. This means people often avoid interacting with content that might be seen as unpopular or controversial in their professional circles.

• Employee Majority: Most users are employees, many of whom are looking to change jobs or make significant changes in their lives. Viral content needs to be relatable to this group.

• Relatability is Key: For a topic to go viral, it needs to be highly relatable to a large number of people.

• The Power of Visuals: Images play a huge role in grabbing attention. Look for visuals that have gone viral before. Tools like Saywhat, Kleo, and Favikon can help you find these images. Just remember to credit the creator when you use them.

Note: Every post in this article was found using Saywhat.

Alright, let's dive into the first 5 topics!

1. Bad Bosses

Most people have had a bad boss at some point: bosses who micromanage, lack empathy, or don’t value their team. Posts about bad leadership hit a nerve, and that’s why they spread like wildfire. These experiences can really traumatize people, so they jump in to share their own stories, vent, and offer support.

• Why it resonates: We've all worked under someone we didn't exactly love. These posts are relatable, and that connection gets people engaged.
• How to tap into this theme: Talk about signs of bad leadership. Highlight what effective leadership looks like in contrast.

Here's the original post by Dora Vanourek.

2. Showing Kindness

In today’s fast-paced, hyper-competitive world, kindness can stand out like a beacon. Whether it’s about leaders going the extra mile for their teams or small acts of compassion at work, these feel-good stories go viral quickly. They bring out the best in people, encouraging others to share their experiences or take similar actions.

• Why it resonates: Most people love an uplifting story, and kindness is something we all appreciate. It reminds us that even in the busiest workplaces, we can still make time for empathy and connection.
• How to tap into this theme: Share powerful visuals on the importance of kindness or offer actionable ways people can build a more empathetic environment in their teams.

Here's the original post by Luke Tobin.

Personally, I'm a big fan of this topic because it is positive!

3. Actions Make a Leader, Not Titles

Titles don't make leaders; actions do. Posts emphasizing that true leadership comes from behavior, not just by holding a managerial position, really land well. People appreciate posts that highlight the importance of leading by example, inspiring others, and having a positive impact regardless of their official role.

• Why it resonates: Many have experienced both good and bad leadership, realizing that those who truly inspire aren't always the ones with high-ranking titles. This theme encourages recognition of leaders at all levels.
• How to tap into this theme: Share impactful one-liners about the importance of leading through actions, regardless of position. Or create an infographic on what good leadership looks like.

Here's the original post by Daniel Abrahams.

4. Leadership That Prioritizes the Team

Great leaders put their teams before their own self-interest. Posts highlighting leadership that empowers, supports, and advocates for team members resonate deeply.

• Why it resonates: People want to feel valued and supported at work. Content on leaders prioritizing their team’s well-being and success inspires others and sets a standard for effective leadership.
• How to tap into this theme: Share what great leadership looks like. Discuss the benefits of leadership styles and encourage others to adopt similar practices.

Here's the original post by Ronnie Kinsey and a visual by Kacy Maxwell.

5. Toxic Workplaces

Let's face it, toxic workplaces are not uncommon. Posts calling out toxic behaviors—whether it’s lack of respect, unrealistic demands, or office politics—grab people’s attention fast. They encourage those who've been in similar situations to share their own stories and find comfort in knowing they’re not alone.

• Why it resonates: Almost everyone has faced a tough work environment at some point. These posts connect on an emotional level, prompting people to engage and reflect on how they can improve their own work lives.
• How to tap into this theme: Talk openly about what a toxic workplace looks like and how to spot red flags early. Share advice on coping strategies or, if necessary, how to move on to a better environment.

Here's the original post by Dora Vanourek.

---

Stay tuned for Part 2 of this series, where we'll explore 5 more viral LinkedIn topics!

Conclusion

Understanding these viral topics can help you create content that resonates with your audience. Remember, relatability is key on LinkedIn. See you in the next part!