OK, this may be controversial.

Some people email their tribe asking for “LinkedIn love” (as I define it, requesting emojis or comments) on their single posts.

I am not sure this is an authentic representation of LinkedIn love.

Because you may get weak responses back, or worse, emojis. And then again you may not get anything.

But also because it’s much more authentic to spur others to want to comment in real words, exactly why your post was so meaningful to them.

Yes, I know you seek exposure, and too often it comes with just a preset emoji.

Or they say “Nice post, {insert your name}” when they see your brilliance on their feed.

Unequal exchange, right?

Do they spend time on LinkedIn looking for quantity of single comments, or do they really appreciate you for your quality?

It reminds me of the lyrics in “Looking for Love” (at 3 mins 35 seconds into this song):

… No more lookin’ for love in all the wrong placesLookin’ for love in too many facesSearchin’ their eyesLookin’ for traces of what I’m dreaming of …

I’d rather see you finding the love among those who willingly, voluntarily, and without prodding, offer you support and admiration for something you said uniquely, at the right times, that resonated with them. They then feel compelled to respond. Recall the actor John Houseman’s best lines in the TV drama about law school “The Paper Chase”:

You earn it!

You may disagree, so bring it on, and let’s discuss it. 

I’d welcome your agreement too.

Just doin’ my job to sensitize and emphasize new and better ways on LinkedIn.