💬 Social Selling on LinkedIn: A Science‑Backed Framework

Social selling isn’t posting and hoping. It’s a system: define identity, map audiences, publish signal‑rich content, and have structured 1:1 conversations. Backed by research on trust formation, parasocial relationships, and social proof, this framework builds pipeline without spam.

🪪 Identity & Positioning

• Headline: outcome for audience (“I help EU manufacturers cut proposal time 27%”).
• About: 3 proof points with numbers; 1 founder story or field lesson.
• Featured: 2 case snippets, 1 lead magnet, 1 scheduling link.

🗺️ Audience Mapping

Build lists by role, vertical, and problem language. Follow 100 target accounts; interact with their leaders and partners. Save searches, turn on alerts for job changes and launches (high engagement windows).

📅 Content Cadence (4x/Week)

• Mon: “How‑to” post with a mini‑framework (+saveable).
• Wed: Case fragment (before/after chart + 3 bullets).
• Thu: Opinion on industry change (show spine, stay respectful).
• Fri: Story or behind‑the‑scenes (humanizes, builds liking).

✉️ Message Sequencing (1:1)

1. React to a recent post or change; add a line of genuine perspective.
2. Wait 24–48h; send a micro‑asset tailored to their role (reciprocity).
3. Ask a low‑friction question; propose a 15‑min exchange if interest is shown.

📊 Metrics That Matter

✅ Checklist

🧪 Experiments & Benchmarks

• Rotate formats: carousel how‑tos, short text, 60‑90s selfie videos; track saves and follows.
• Limit CTAs: 3:1 ratio of value posts to asks increases DM acceptance rates.
• Signal consistency: 4–6 weeks of cadence before expecting steady inbound.

❓ FAQ

How “personal” should posts be? Share work‑relevant stories (failures, lessons) and draw a practical takeaway. Avoid unrelated oversharing.