Here's a relatively small, but helpful update - LinkedIn is now giving all users the option to display a 'Follow' button as the main CTA on their profile page, as opposed to the current 'Connect' prompt.
This has actually been the main option for high profile users (like Richard Branson) who are in LinkedIn's 'inFluencer' program for some time, but now, all users will be able to list the same.
LinkedIn is notifying selected users of the update via e-mail - social media advisor Matt Navarra shared a screenshot of the message on Twitter.
As per LinkedIn:
"When members follow you, they are more likely to see your content in their feed. This allows members to stay up to date with topics they care about and join your conversation. We've heard from you that it can be overwhelming to receive a large volume of connection requests from people you do not know. This option makes it easy to establish a relationship and share your insights with people who are interested in what you have to say."
An interesting point there about followers being 'more likely to see your content in their feed'. Does that mean followers are more likely than connections to see your updates? Technically, probably not, as all of your first degree connections are automatically followers, till they opt out, so it's probably the same. But still, if that is the case, it would definitely make more sense to use the 'Follow' CTA on your profile (I've asked LinkedIn about this and will update if I hear back).
To make 'Follow' the button of choice on your LinkedIn profile, you need to go to your 'Settings' in the LinkedIn mobile app, then go to the 'Privacy' tab. In that listing, you'll find a 'Who can follow you' setting - tap on that and you can select the CTA for your profile. The option is not available via desktop at this stage.
It could provide another way to help boost exposure and presence on the platform - LinkedIn is also testing a new option which enables selected users to create blog post collections (called 'Series') which users can subscribe to.
Sure, being a 'L.I.O.N.' (LinkedIn Open Networker) and amassing a heap of connections is great, but surely having a big list of followers on the platform is more impressive. Dependent on your aims, of course.
An interesting consideration either way.
