44: How Writing on LinkedIn Helps Dustin McKissen Build His Business

Write With Impact with Glenn Leibowitz

Find the notes to this episode at writewithimpact.com/episode44

Dustin McKissen and I met on LinkedIn nearly two years ago, when we were both starting to blog there.

Since then, we’ve become friends - virtual friends, at least - since we’ve never actually met in person yet. In fact, this conversation is the very first time we’ve ever spoken to each other beyond email or LinkedIn messaging.

I’m a huge fan of Dustin’s writing on LinkedIn. While the word “authenticity” is on the verge of becoming cliche, Dustin epitomizes what this word really means.

In his posts, he draws heavily from his personal experiences, sometimes very painful ones, sometimes humorous ones, and in doing so connects with readers in a way few other writers on LinkedIn can.

He’s also a prolific writer: he’s published nearly 200 posts that have been viewed over 2 million times, and which have generated tens of thousands of likes, comments, and social shares.

Last December, LinkedIn recognized Dustin as one of 90 “Top Voices” from among the 1 million LinkedIn members who publish posts. Earlier this year, he was invited to become a contributor to inc.com, where he writes a column called, “The Brand New Entrepreneur”.

And while Dustin clearly enjoys writing on LinkedIn, he’s also managed to turn it into something more than just a personal passion project. Today, largely on the back of the reputation and professional network he’s established on LinkedIn, Dustin has built a profitable and growing business advising clients on their communication plans.

In our conversation, Dustin shares some of the strategies he uses to write posts that touch readers around the world. He also talks about how to engage with readers and other writers on LinkedIn to grow your network.

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