Top LinkedIn Writing Frameworks to Craft Viral Posts
Learn the top LinkedIn writing frameworks that influencers use to go viral and gain engagement. Enhance your content strategy with these proven methods.
Have you ever scrolled through your LinkedIn feed and noticed that some posts seem to explode with engagement, while others barely get a like? It's not just a coincidence. The secret lies in using the right writing frameworks.
Top LinkedIn creators are using specific writing frameworks to craft posts that stop the scroll and demand attention. Posts that provoke thought, spark conversation, and rack up those sweet, sweet engagement metrics.
But here's the plot twist. Going viral on LinkedIn isn't just about luck. I'll also be diving into some other tactics this week on my LinkedIn profile, including the somewhat controversial Linkedin engagement pods.
However, even with a sprinkle of luck and shady tactics, the posts that truly soar are the ones with substance. The ones that use tried-and-true frameworks to deliver actual value, because at the end of the day, it's all about readability.
And that's exactly what I set out to uncover. I analyzed over 9,000 LinkedIn posts that went absolutely ballistic. We're talking thousands upon thousands of likes, comments, and shares.
My goal? To reverse-engineer the DNA of a viral post. To identify the common threads, the underlying structures, the very blueprints that turn an average post into a viral sensation.
And boy, did I find some intersting stuff. Clear patterns emerged. Specific frameworks kept popping up again and again, across industries and niches.
The Top 10 Viral Writing Frameworks on LinkedIn
Alright, moment of truth. Out of the 9,000+ posts I analyzed, these were the 10 writing frameworks that appeared most frequently in viral content.
Storytelling Framework (27.11%) Stories are the ultimate human connector. They allow your audience to step into your shoes and experience a situation firsthand. LinkedIn influencers know this, and they use stories to create posts that are impossible to ignore. When crafting a story post, focus on a single, pivotal moment. Use vivid details and emotions to draw your readers in. And always, always include a lesson or takeaway that ties your story back to your professional insights.
Call-to-Action (CTA) Framework (18.33%) If you want your audience to engage with your content, sometimes you just need to ask. That's where call-to-action posts come in. These posts encourage your readers to take a specific action, whether it's sharing their opinion in the comments, connecting with you directly, or checking out a resource. The key to effective CTAs is being clear and specific. Don't just say "Thoughts?" at the end of your post. Instead, ask a pointed question or prompt a particular response. And tie your CTA back to the value you provided in your post.
Educational Framework (17.78%) One of the best ways to build trust and credibility on LinkedIn is by sharing your knowledge. Educational posts teach your audience something new or help them improve a skill. When creating educational content, break complex topics down into digestible steps or tips. Use examples and analogies to make abstract concepts more concrete. And don't be afraid to showcase your unique perspective and experience.
Listicle Framework (9.99%) Listicles, or list-style posts, are a staple in the content world for a reason. They're easy to read, easy to share, and easy to apply. LinkedIn influencers use lists to share tips, strategies, resources, and more. To create a compelling listicle, choose a topic that lends itself well to a list format. Keep your list items concise and actionable. And experiment with different list lengths to see what resonates best with your audience.
Data-Driven Framework (2.74%) In a world of opinions and anecdotes, data-driven posts stand out. These posts use stats, figures, and research to make a point or support an argument. When sharing data in your posts, always cite your sources. Use data visualization techniques like charts and graphs to make your numbers more engaging. And don't just rattle off statistics—provide your expert analysis and insights.
Problem-Solution Framework (1.54%) Problem-solution posts identify a common pain point and provide a remedy. They show your audience that you understand their challenges and have the expertise to help overcome them. To use this framework effectively, clearly articulate the problem at the start of your post. Then, walk through your recommended solution step by step. Bonus points if you can share a personal story of how you've successfully applied this solution.
Testimonial Framework (1.54%) Testimonial posts leverage social proof to build trust and credibility. They showcase the positive experiences others have had with your product, service, or advice. When sharing testimonials, always get permission from your clients or customers first. Use direct quotes for maximum impact. And provide context around the testimonial to help your audience relate.
Comparison Framework (1.43%) Comparison posts pit two options against each other to help your audience make a decision. These could be tools, strategies, philosophies—anything where there are multiple paths to consider. The key to comparative posts is being fair and balanced. Present the pros and cons of each option objectively. Use criteria that are relevant and valuable to your audience. And if you have a preference, back it up with clear reasoning.
Motivational Framework (0.77%) We all need a pep talk sometimes. That's where motivational posts come in. These posts inspire your audience to take action, chase their dreams, and become their best selves. To craft an encouraging post, start with an empowering message. Use storytelling to illustrate your point. And end with a rousing call-to-action that compels your readers to make a change.
Quote Framework (0.55%) Sometimes the most profound words aren't your own. Quote posts share wisdom from influential figures in your industry or beyond. When using quotes in your content, choose ones that align with your brand and message. Provide your own commentary and insights to add value. And don't overdo it—quotes are most effective when used sparingly.
So those are the top 10 writing frameworks LinkedIn influencers are using to create viral posts. But the cool thing I discovered in my analysis? Many of the top posts actually used a combination of these frameworks.
So as you start applying these frameworks to your own content, don't be afraid to experiment. Test out different formats, styles, and combinations. Pay attention to your metrics to see what your audience responds to best.
Out of the 9,000+ posts I analyzed, three frameworks reigned supreme. These three alone accounted for over 63% of the viral posts.
Think about that for a second. In the sea of LinkedIn content, the majority of posts that went viral relied on just three core structures. Three magic formulas, if you will.
1. Storytelling Writing Framework
Once upon a time, in a world filled with countless LinkedIn posts, a few stood out from the rest. These posts had one thing in common: they were master storytellers. The Storytelling Framework, used in a staggering 27.11% of viral LinkedIn posts, proves that people are hardwired to connect with narratives.
But what makes a story compelling? A great story has three key elements: a relatable character, a challenge or obstacle, and a resolution. When these elements come together, magic happens. Readers become invested in the character's journey, rooting for them as they overcome hurdles and emerge transformed.
Let's take a look at a real-life example. Imagine a LinkedIn post that begins with a personal anecdote:
"When I started my business, I had no idea what I was doing. I made countless mistakes and nearly gave up." The post then goes on to describe the challenges the author faced and the lessons they learned along the way.
Finally, it concludes with a triumphant resolution: "Today, my business is thriving, and I'm passionate about helping others avoid the mistakes I made."
This post resonates because it's authentic, vulnerable, and relatable. It takes readers on an emotional journey, making them feel invested in the author's success. By using the Storytelling Framework, the author has created a post that not only informs but also inspires.
So, how can you apply the Storytelling Framework to your own LinkedIn posts? Start by identifying a personal experience or challenge that your audience can relate to. Use vivid details and emotions to draw readers in and make them feel like they're right there with you. Finally, conclude with a resolution that leaves readers feeling inspired and motivated to take action.
Remember, storytelling is a powerful tool. When used effectively, it can transform your LinkedIn posts from mere words on a screen to captivating narratives that leave a lasting impact on your audience.
How to Write a LinkedIn Post Using the Storytelling Framework
Choose a relevant story: Select a personal experience, anecdote, or case study that relates to your intended message or lesson.
Set the scene: Begin your post by describing the context of your story. Include relevant details to draw readers in and help them visualize the situation.
Introduce the challenge or conflict: Describe the problem, obstacle, or decision you (or the subject of your story) faced. This creates tension and engages your readers.
Share the journey: Explain how you (or the subject) navigated the challenge or conflict. Include key details and emotions to make the story relatable.
Reveal the outcome: Describe the result of the actions taken and the lessons learned. Highlight the positive outcomes or growth that came from the experience.
Connect to your message: Explain how your story relates to your broader message or the lesson you want to impart to your readers.
Encourage reflection: End your post with a question or prompt that encourages readers to reflect on their own experiences or how they can apply the lesson to their lives.
Why LinkedIn Influencers Love the Storytelling Framework
LinkedIn influencers often use the Storytelling Framework because:
Stories are memorable and help their messages stick with readers
Personal experiences humanize the influencer and make them more relatable
Storytelling encourages engagement by prompting readers to share their own experiences
Well-crafted stories can inspire and motivate readers to take action or make positive changes
2. Call-to-Action (CTA) Writing Framework
Picture this: you've just read an incredible LinkedIn post that's filled with valuable insights and tips. You're feeling inspired and ready to take action, but you're not quite sure what to do next. That's where the Call-to-Action (CTA) Framework comes in.
Used in 18.33% of viral LinkedIn posts, the CTA Framework is all about guiding your readers towards a specific action. Whether you want them to like, comment, share, or click through to your website, a clear and compelling CTA is essential.
So, what makes a CTA effective? First and foremost, it should be specific and actionable. Instead of ending your post with a vague "Let me know what you think," try something like "Share your top tip for [topic] in the comments below." This gives readers a concrete action to take and encourages engagement. Or the infamous "Agree?" we can see everywhere.
Another key element of a compelling CTA is urgency. By creating a sense of urgency, you motivate readers to take action now rather than later. For example, if you're promoting a limited-time offer, your CTA could be something like "Leave a comment within the next 24 hours, and I will send you a free ebook that usually costs $99."
Let's look at a real-life example. Imagine a LinkedIn post that shares five productivity hacks for entrepreneurs. The post is packed with valuable tips, but it's the CTA at the end that really stands out: "Want even more productivity secrets? Download my free e-book, 'The Ultimate Guide to Entrepreneurial Productivity,' by clicking the link in my bio. Hurry, this offer ends tonight!"
The Call-to-Action (CTA) Framework is designed to encourage your LinkedIn audience to take a specific action, such as engaging with your content, visiting your website, or signing up for a service. This framework is effective for driving conversions and increasing engagement on your posts.
How to Write a LinkedIn Post Using the CTA Framework
Identify your goal: Determine the specific action you want your readers to take after reading your post.
Craft an attention-grabbing headline: Use a headline that clearly communicates the benefit of taking action and entices readers to click on your post.
Highlight the problem: Begin your post by describing a common problem or pain point your target audience faces. This helps readers relate to your message.
Offer a solution: Explain how taking the desired action will solve the problem or improve the reader's situation. Focus on the benefits of taking action.
Provide social proof: Share examples, testimonials, or data that demonstrate the effectiveness of your solution. This helps build trust and credibility.
Create a sense of urgency: Explain why readers should take action now rather than later. Use language that conveys urgency, such as "limited time offer" or "act now."
Make your CTA clear and compelling: End your post with a clear, specific call-to-action that tells readers exactly what to do next. Use action-oriented language and make the CTA visually prominent.
Why LinkedIn Influencers Love the CTA Framework
LinkedIn influencers often use the CTA Framework because:
It helps drive measurable results, such as website traffic, sign-ups, or sales
Clear CTAs make it easy for readers to engage with the influencer's content or offers
Compelling CTAs can boost engagement rates and help posts reach a wider audience
The framework is versatile and can be adapted to promote a variety of goals or offerings
3. Educational Writing Framework
In a world where information is just a click away, it's no surprise that educational content is a hit on LinkedIn. The Educational Framework, used in 17.78% of viral posts, taps into people's innate desire to learn and grow.
But what exactly makes educational content so valuable? For starters, it provides readers with practical knowledge and skills they can apply in their own lives and careers. Whether you're sharing tips on how to nail a job interview or breaking down complex industry trends, educational posts offer tangible benefits to your audience.
Moreover, educational content positions you as an expert in your field. By sharing your knowledge and insights, you build trust and credibility with your readers. This, in turn, can lead to new opportunities and connections.
So, how can you structure your educational posts for maximum impact? One effective approach is the "problem-solution" structure. Start by identifying a common challenge or pain point your audience faces. Then, break down the solution into clear, actionable steps.
For example, let's say you're a marketing consultant writing a post on creating effective social media ads. You might start by highlighting the problem: "Are your social media ads falling flat? You're not alone. Many businesses struggle to create ads that grab attention and drive results."
Then, you'd dive into the solution:
"Here are three proven strategies for creating social media ads that convert:
1) Use eye-catching visuals,
2) Write compelling copy,
3) Target the right audience."
For each strategy, provide specific examples and tips readers can implement right away.
Another key to successful educational posts is making the content easy to digest. Use short paragraphs, bullet points, and subheadings to break up the text and make it scannable. And don't be afraid to inject some personality and humor into your writing – just because it's educational doesn't mean it has to be dry!
Finally, remember to end your post with a strong call-to-action. Encourage readers to implement what they've learned and share their results in the comments. This not only reinforces the value of your content but also sparks engagement and discussion.
How to Write a LinkedIn Post Using the Educational Framework
Choose a relevant topic: Select a subject that aligns with your expertise and is valuable to your target audience.
Craft an informative headline: Use a headline that clearly communicates the learning opportunity and entices readers to click on your post.
Introduce the topic: Begin your post by explaining why the topic is important and how it relates to your audience's interests or needs.
Break down the information: Divide your educational content into clear, concise points or steps. Use subheadings, bullet points, or numbered lists to make the information easy to follow.
Provide examples: Illustrate your points with real-world examples, case studies, or personal anecdotes. This helps readers understand and apply the knowledge you're sharing.
Use visuals: Enhance your post with relevant images, infographics, or videos. Visuals can make your content more engaging and memorable.
Encourage engagement: End your post with a question or prompt that encourages readers to share their own experiences, ask questions, or provide feedback.
Why LinkedIn Influencers Love the Educational Framework
LinkedIn influencers often use the Educational Framework because:
Sharing valuable knowledge positions them as experts and thought leaders in their industries
Educational content is highly shareable and can help influencers reach a wider audience
Informative posts tend to generate high engagement rates, as readers appreciate learning new things
The framework allows influencers to showcase their unique insights and perspectives
LinkedIn Writing Frameworks
While these three frameworks are the most popular, it's important to remember that there's no one-size-fits-all approach to creating engaging content. The key is to experiment with different frameworks and find the ones that resonate with your unique voice and audience.
As you embark on your content creation journey, keep these tips in mind:
Authenticity is everything. Don't be afraid to share your genuine experiences, challenges, and successes with your audience.
Always provide value. Whether you're telling a story, making a call-to-action, or sharing educational insights, ensure your content offers tangible benefits to your readers.
Engage your audience. Use compelling visuals, ask thought-provoking questions, and encourage discussion to foster a sense of community around your content.
By applying these principles and leveraging the power of the top writing frameworks, you'll be well on your way to creating content that might go viral but also leaves a lasting impact on your audience.
Happy writing!
Grabbing Attention in a Noisy Feed
Think about how people scroll through their LinkedIn feed. They're bombarded with updates, articles, ads, and more. In that sea of similar content, how do you get them to stop on your post?