How to provoke good LinkedIn discussions

Given that 66% of UK professionals are now on LinkedIn, the platform offers considerable B2B marketing opportunities to companies. There are numerous ways firms can benefit from LinkedIn, one of which is participation in group discussions. Good questions provoke lively exchange of views and promote the public profile of the initiator of the discussion. But what sorts of questions provoke good discussions?

Let’s have a look…

1. Yes or No Questions

Sometimes simplicity is the right approach. A yes/no question on a topic that people are likely to disagree on may provide a fruitful debate.

 

2. Two options

Similarly to a yes/no question, giving people a clear selection of options may be the right way to go. Especially if people are likely to think there should be a third option.

 

3. Personal benefit

As shown in the example below, people are likely to get involved in discussions that may provide personal benefit in the form of publicity and networking opportunities.

 

4. Controversy

Depending on the industry and context, slight controversy may kick-start an engaging online conversation.

 

5.  Invitation to contribute

The example below is a humorous and original request for contribution on which most people are likely to have an opinion.

 

6. Celebrity

Social media destroys the barriers between the public and celebrities. Providing virtual access to well-known figures, even industry leaders, can bring great response.

 

 

What sorts of questions are you likely to engage with?

Latest Posts

B2B leads go cold when interest is captured before the buying group is ready to move. A form fill shows that someone acted, but it does not mean the decision is ready. Social keeps the commercial conversation alive by carrying proof, building trust and showing what buyers are researching before sales can see it.
Read More
Creative content on social media tends to fall into two camps: the stuff you actually remember, and the stuff you clicked on once… then instantly forgot. We’ve all experienced the second one. The extra dramatic hooks, the “OMG, this will TOTALLY change your life” claims, the slightly over-the-top thumbnails. It’s…
Read More
FMCG brands don’t need more hacks. They need to understand the behaviour behind the feed. This is my particular bugbear right now. The algorithm is only useful when you understand the people behind the signals.  We get endless tips about timing, hooks, formats, posting frequency and “what the algorithm wants”,…
Read More