How To Track Industry Leaders on LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a powerful platform to follow and learn from industry leaders. By tracking their updates, you can stay informed about trends, skills, and opportunities that could shape your career. Here’s how to do it effectively:

Follow vs. Connect: Following allows you to see public posts without mutual approval, ideal for tracking thought leaders. Connecting is for building two-way professional relationships.
Custom Notifications: Use the bell icon on profiles to get alerts for posts or updates from key figures. Adjust settings to avoid overload.
Hashtags and Topics: Follow hashtags like #AI or #Fintech to discover trends and new voices in your field.
Curate Your Feed: Prioritize relevant content by updating feed preferences and unfollowing less relevant profiles.
Engage with Content: Comment thoughtfully on posts to boost visibility and build connections.
Analytics and Tools: Use LinkedIn’s built-in analytics or external tools like Hootsuite for deeper insights into engagement.

Tracking leaders on LinkedIn isn’t just about staying updated - it’s about positioning yourself for growth by turning insights into action.

How to Find Influencers on LinkedIn

LinkedIn's Main Tracking Features

Understanding LinkedIn's tracking tools can help you build a thoughtful career strategy and stay connected to industry leaders. The platform offers several built-in features to help you follow and engage with key figures in your field.

Following vs. Connecting: Key Differences

Knowing the difference between following and connecting on LinkedIn is crucial for tailoring your engagement strategy. Each serves a distinct purpose in how you interact with and track industry leaders.

Connecting establishes a mutual, two-way relationship. This option is best suited for people you know personally, such as colleagues or professional contacts.

Following, on the other hand, is a one-way interaction. It allows you to see someone's public posts and articles in your feed without requiring their approval or creating a mutual connection. This feature is ideal for keeping up with high-profile executives, thought leaders, or influencers whose insights you find valuable but whom you may not know personally.

Interestingly, when you send a connection request, LinkedIn automatically sets you to follow that person. Even if your request is declined, you'll continue to see their updates unless you choose to unfollow them manually.

Aspect	Connecting	Following
Relationship	Mutual, two-way	One-way
Message Access	Direct messaging allowed	No direct messaging
Content Visibility	Both see each other's posts	You see their posts only
Limit	Maximum of 30,000 connections	No limit
Best For	Known professionals, colleagues	Industry leaders, executives

Setting Up Notifications for Updates

LinkedIn's notification system can help you stay on top of updates from the leaders you’re tracking. The platform gives you control over what notifications you receive and how they’re delivered.

To customize notifications for someone, click the bell icon on their profile. You can choose to get alerts for all posts, only major updates like profile changes, or turn off notifications altogether. This feature is particularly useful for monitoring a small group of influential people whose updates could impact your industry.

Notifications can be sent via the LinkedIn app, email, or as mobile push alerts. You can adjust these settings under "Communications" and "Notifications" in your account preferences. For critical updates, enabling email notifications can be especially helpful, as they provide a permanent record you can revisit.

LinkedIn also offers trending notifications, which alert you when posts from people you follow are gaining significant engagement. These alerts can help you identify hot topics and key discussions within your professional network, offering valuable insights into emerging industry trends.

Using Hashtags and Topic Feeds

Tracking hashtags is another powerful way to stay informed about your industry. Following specific hashtags aggregates content from various professionals, including posts from leaders you may not have encountered yet.

For example, hashtags like #artificialintelligence, #fintech, or #sustainablebusiness pull together posts from a range of voices, offering you a broader perspective on industry developments. By following these hashtags, you can stay updated on relevant discussions and discover new thought leaders.

Your followed hashtags appear in the "Topics you follow" section on the left sidebar of your LinkedIn homepage. Based on your engagement, LinkedIn’s algorithm will suggest additional topics and leaders that align with your interests. This creates a ripple effect, helping you uncover even more influential figures to follow.

LinkedIn also curates "Top Voices" lists for various subjects, highlighting the most influential contributors in specific fields. These lists are a great resource for identifying key players driving industry conversations.

When combined with following individual leaders, topic feeds provide a well-rounded view of industry trends. You’ll see direct posts from the leaders you follow, as well as related content from professionals discussing similar themes. Together, these tools offer a comprehensive way to track industry conversations and stay ahead in your field.

Step-by-Step Guide to Track Industry Leaders

Leverage LinkedIn's tools to keep tabs on influential figures in your industry.

How to Find the Right Leaders to Track

Start by using LinkedIn's search bar. Look for job titles like "Chief Technology Officer" or use industry-specific keywords. Pay extra attention to profiles with the "LinkedIn Top Voice" badge or those with over 10,000 followers who consistently share meaningful insights.

Another great resource is LinkedIn groups. Join industry-specific groups to spot active contributors and moderators who often hold significant influence. These individuals frequently share valuable perspectives and trends.

Make use of the "People Also Viewed" section on LinkedIn profiles. This feature suggests professionals with similar expertise or interests, helping you expand your list of leaders to follow.

Don’t overlook company pages. Explore leadership teams of major corporations or innovative startups. Executives like CEOs, CTOs, and other C-suite leaders often post strategic updates that can provide valuable insights for your professional growth.

Once you've identified the right people, fine-tune your LinkedIn feed to focus on the most relevant content.

Customize Your Feed for Industry Content

LinkedIn's algorithm adapts to your activity, so engage with content from the leaders you follow. This ensures their posts appear more frequently in your feed.

To take control of your feed, click the three dots next to "Start a post" on your homepage and select "Update your feed preferences." Here, you can prioritize updates from specific connections and adjust what content appears.

If your feed feels cluttered, consider unfollowing or muting connections who post irrelevant updates. This won’t affect your connection status but will clear up space for more meaningful industry content.

By tailoring your feed preferences, you can train LinkedIn to surface more targeted updates and insights that align with your professional interests.

Next, set up notifications to stay on top of key updates from these leaders.

Enable Notifications for Key Profiles

Stay informed by enabling notifications for the most influential leaders in your industry. Be selective - too many alerts can quickly become overwhelming.

Visit a leader's profile, click the bell icon, and choose your notification preference. For high-impact individuals, opt for "All posts and activities" to get updates on everything they share. If you prefer fewer alerts, select "Only posts" to avoid notifications about profile changes.

For critical updates, activate push and email notifications in LinkedIn's settings. This creates a searchable archive of important insights and ensures you don’t miss updates, even when you're away from LinkedIn.

As your priorities shift, revisit your notification settings to keep them aligned with your current focus. You can also use your smartphone's notification settings to customize how LinkedIn alerts appear, adding features like unique sounds or quiet hours for better management.

Analytics and Tools for Better Tracking

Keeping an eye on your LinkedIn performance is key to refining your networking game. LinkedIn provides built-in analytics for both Company Pages and Member Profiles, giving you insights into content performance and engagement trends. These metrics help you track your growth and understand what’s working (and what’s not) over time.

Make it a habit to review these analytics regularly. They’re a great starting point for adjusting your strategy and getting the most out of LinkedIn’s tracking features. Once you’ve mastered these, you can explore external tools for more advanced tracking options.

LinkedIn's Built-in Analytics

LinkedIn’s native analytics are designed to give you a snapshot of how your efforts are paying off. For Company Pages, you can monitor metrics like follower growth, post impressions, and engagement rates. Member Profiles, on the other hand, offer insights into profile views, search appearances, and the demographics of those interacting with your content.

These tools are straightforward and provide enough data to help you make informed decisions about your content and engagement strategies.

External Tools for Advanced Tracking

If you’re looking for a more detailed breakdown, external platforms can take your tracking to the next level. Tools like Hootsuite or Sprout Social offer in-depth analytics, allowing you to measure LinkedIn performance alongside other social media channels. They can provide additional insights, such as audience sentiment and competitive benchmarking, that LinkedIn’s native tools might not cover.

These platforms are especially useful for businesses or professionals managing multiple accounts or campaigns, as they streamline data from various sources into one dashboard.

LinkedIn Tools vs. External Platforms

While LinkedIn’s built-in analytics are great for getting started, external tools offer a more comprehensive view of your performance. The choice between the two depends on your goals. If you’re focused on LinkedIn-specific growth, the native tools should suffice. But if you want a broader perspective or need advanced features, external platforms are worth considering.

Job Search Platforms for Better Networking

Combine LinkedIn tracking with a job search platform that offers structured tools, automated features, and professional guidance to take your networking and resume game to the next level. These platforms not only streamline job applications but also provide real-time updates, ensuring you’re always prepared to make the most of networking opportunities. Platforms like scale.jobs are designed to complement LinkedIn tracking, helping you achieve more effective results.

How scale.jobs Supports LinkedIn Tracking

scale.jobs

Scale.jobs enhances your LinkedIn tracking by integrating tools that simplify networking. Its networking tools sync seamlessly with LinkedIn's features, making it easier to organize and monitor your interactions with industry professionals.

For example, as you follow and engage with industry leaders on LinkedIn, scale.jobs' Job Applications Tracker helps you keep tabs on those connections. You can log details about who you’ve interacted with, track opportunities that arise, and ensure timely follow-ups. This organized approach helps you avoid missing out on valuable networking leads.

The platform also features an ATS-compliant resume builder, ensuring your resume is always polished and ready to share. Plus, with real-time WhatsApp updates, you’ll never miss a critical networking moment. Unlike email notifications that can get lost in a crowded inbox, WhatsApp updates provide instant alerts for time-sensitive opportunities.

One standout feature is the proof-of-work screenshots, which offer transparency by showing exactly what actions have been taken on your behalf. This is especially useful for busy professionals juggling multiple connections. It ensures your networking efforts stay coordinated and effective.

scale.jobs vs. Other Job Search Platforms

When it comes to networking-focused job search platforms, scale.jobs stands out with its blend of human assistance and advanced tools. Here’s how it compares to other platforms:

Platform	Networking Tools	Human Assistance	Transparency Features	Pricing Model
scale.jobs	Yes	Yes	WhatsApp updates, proof-of-work	Free, $9–$19/mo, flat-fee for human assistance
Find My Profession	Limited	Yes	Limited details	Service-based
TealHQ	Yes	No	Limited details	Free & paid tiers
LazyApply	Yes	No	Limited details	Subscription

Find My Profession focuses on resume writing and career coaching but lacks the integrated networking tools critical for LinkedIn tracking. Additionally, its service-based pricing offers less transparency compared to scale.jobs’ proof-of-work feature.

TealHQ provides solid networking tools and AI-driven features, but without human assistance, users are left to navigate complex networking strategies by themselves. This can be especially challenging for recent graduates or professionals with unique needs, like navigating visa requirements.

LazyApply leans heavily on automation but doesn’t offer the personal touch that genuine networking requires. Its subscription model also means ongoing costs, unlike the flexibility of scale.jobs’ flat-fee structure for human assistance.

What sets scale.jobs apart is its Human Assistant (Reverse Recruiter Services). These trained virtual assistants help craft personalized LinkedIn connection requests and manage follow-ups, ensuring your outreach feels authentic and professional. This human-powered approach avoids the impersonal, bot-like interactions that could harm your reputation.

Additionally, the platform’s flat-fee pricing model for human assistance is a cost-effective solution for sustained networking efforts. Instead of dealing with recurring monthly charges, you can budget for specific networking activities, making it easier to manage your career development expenses effectively.

Best Practices for Long-term Engagement

Building strong, lasting connections with industry leaders on LinkedIn takes consistent effort over time. It's not just about showing up occasionally - it's about staying engaged in meaningful ways that keep you visible and relevant to the professionals who matter most in your field.

How to Engage with Content Effectively

Engaging with content strategically is a powerful way to boost your visibility. For instance, users who leave thoughtful comments tend to receive 4x more views. But not all comments are created equal - aim to share concise, insightful thoughts that add value to the conversation.

When interacting with articles and long-form posts, take the time to read the entire piece before commenting. Reference specific points to show you've genuinely considered the author's perspective. For example, if someone shares insights about AI implementation, you might mention how their point about data quality aligns with challenges you've encountered in your own work. This approach demonstrates both expertise and genuine interest.

Video content requires a slightly different tactic. Stand out by commenting on both the visual and audio aspects of the video. Acknowledging these elements shows attention to detail and helps your comment resonate.

Polls and interactive posts are also great engagement tools. Instead of just voting, explain your choice in the comments. This not only sparks conversations but also highlights your thought process, which can attract attention from both the original poster and others following the thread.

Timing plays a crucial role in visibility. LinkedIn's algorithm rewards early engagement, so aim to comment within the first 2-3 hours after a post is published.

When sharing someone else's post, don't just hit "repost." Add 2-3 sentences of personal insight to frame the content in your own voice. This positions you as someone who curates and contributes to industry conversations rather than simply echoing others.

Lastly, ensure your feed stays relevant by regularly reviewing the leaders and influencers you follow.

Review and Update Your Leader List

As your career and industry interests shift, keeping your LinkedIn feed aligned with your goals is essential. Plan to review your followed leaders quarterly to ensure you're staying in tune with your professional priorities and the latest industry trends.

Start by categorizing the people you follow into three groups: highly relevant, somewhat relevant, and no longer relevant. Unfollow those whose content no longer aligns with your goals to keep your feed focused and valuable.

During each review, aim to add 3-5 new leaders to your list. Look for individuals gaining traction in areas you're exploring, such as professionals from companies or roles you aspire to join. You can identify emerging influencers by noting recent promotions, speaking engagements, or industry awards.

If you're planning to relocate or focus on specific regions, consider geographic factors when updating your list. Following voices from target markets can provide local insights and help you adapt to regional trends.

To track these changes, use a simple spreadsheet to document who you’ve added or removed and why. This helps you stay organized and prevents you from accidentally re-following accounts that no longer add value.

Use LinkedIn's 'Top Voices' Lists

After refining your leader list, explore LinkedIn’s Top Voices program to discover emerging influencers. These curated lists spotlight up-and-coming thought leaders across industries like technology, marketing, finance, and healthcare. They’re updated regularly, typically every quarter, making them a great resource for fresh perspectives.

When reviewing Top Voices, focus on quality over quantity. Don’t follow everyone on the list - take time to review their recent posts to ensure their insights align with your professional interests. Look for individuals who consistently share actionable advice rather than just motivational quotes.

One advantage of following Top Voices is their smaller yet highly engaged audiences. This creates opportunities for meaningful interactions. Thoughtful comments on their posts can increase your visibility and potentially lead to valuable connections.

Top Voices are often highly active on LinkedIn, frequently responding to comments and engaging with their audience. This makes them more approachable than more established leaders, creating opportunities for direct interaction.

Don’t limit yourself to influencers in your exact field. Cross-industry Top Voices can offer valuable insights that apply broadly. For example, a marketing expert might share strategies relevant to sales, or a tech leader could discuss trends impacting multiple sectors.

Pay attention to how Top Voices interact with their communities. Their engagement strategies - how they respond to comments, structure posts, or build discussions - can serve as inspiration for your own LinkedIn activity.

As personal branding becomes increasingly important, today's Top Voices often evolve into tomorrow's keynote speakers and industry leaders. Following them early in their journey can open doors to long-term networking opportunities as they rise in prominence.

Conclusion: Build Your Career Through Smart Tracking

Strategically tracking industry leaders on LinkedIn can be a game-changer for your career. By combining LinkedIn's built-in tools, external analytics, and job search platforms, you can create a powerful system for professional growth.

LinkedIn's analytics offer clear insights into your networking efforts. Tracking metrics like engagement and interaction patterns helps you understand which leaders and content types are driving meaningful connections. The platform's algorithm favors consistent activity, making your interactions with industry leaders a smart way to boost visibility. With 80% of professionals identifying networking as critical to success, LinkedIn transforms passive following into active relationship-building. These analytics seamlessly enhance your overall networking strategy.

Automation tools like Bardeen's LinkedIn Data Scraper streamline the process by collecting data for you, freeing up your time for more impactful engagement. This balance between automation and personal interaction allows you to manage multiple relationships efficiently without losing the human touch.

For job seekers, integrating job search platforms into your strategy adds another layer of effectiveness. Tools like scale.jobs complement LinkedIn tracking by offering features like a free Job Applications Tracker. This tool works alongside your LinkedIn efforts, helping you monitor which connections lead to real opportunities. Plus, its ATS-compliant resume builder ensures you're always ready to apply with polished, professional documents when opportunities arise.

Long-term success on LinkedIn comes from consistent effort. Regularly engaging with content from industry leaders and periodically reviewing your followed accounts ensures your network stays aligned with your evolving career goals.

Smart tracking is all about intentionality - choosing connections thoughtfully, engaging meaningfully, and leveraging tools to maximize your efforts. By combining LinkedIn's features with external analytics and job search platforms, you create a system designed to drive career growth.

A strong professional network doesn't happen overnight. It’s built through consistent effort, meaningful interactions, and strategic tracking. That leader whose posts you’ve been following for months? Their next update could spark a conversation that leads to your dream job. The professionals who invest in smart LinkedIn tracking today are building the networks that will shape their careers tomorrow.

FAQs

What’s the best way to use LinkedIn tools and external platforms to keep up with industry leaders?

To stay in the loop with industry leaders, it's smart to pair LinkedIn's built-in features with external tools for a more complete perspective. On LinkedIn, you can follow key profiles, subscribe to relevant hashtags, and turn on post notifications to get real-time updates. Then, take it a step further by using external platforms - like analytics tools - to gain deeper insights into broader trends and engagement patterns.

For a streamlined approach, adopt a hybrid strategy: rely on LinkedIn for direct interactions while leveraging external tools for tasks like benchmarking and automation. This combination helps you stay on top of industry trends, keep tabs on leaders' activities, and understand competitor strategies - all without putting all your eggs in one basket.

How can I engage with industry leaders on LinkedIn without cluttering my notifications?

To connect with industry leaders on LinkedIn without drowning in notifications, start by tweaking your notification settings. Focus on updates that matter most - like new posts or career milestones - so your inbox stays relevant and clutter-free.

Another smart move? Follow specific hashtags tied to your industry. This keeps you in the loop on trending topics without having to follow every single leader individually.

You can also join LinkedIn groups where key players in your field are active or follow their company pages for streamlined updates. By being thoughtful about what you engage with, you can keep your LinkedIn feed clean and focused, making it easier to connect meaningfully with leaders who inspire you.

How can I find and follow the most relevant industry leaders on LinkedIn to support my career goals?

To connect with the right industry leaders on LinkedIn, start by defining your career goals and pinpointing the skills or expertise you want to grow. Once you have a clear direction, take advantage of LinkedIn's advanced search tools to find professionals in your field. Focus on factors like job titles, locations, and industries that align with where you want to go.

When reviewing profiles, look for individuals who are active on the platform - those who post regularly, share thoughtful insights, and engage in meaningful discussions. Prioritize leaders who provide valuable content, practical advice, or talk about trends relevant to your industry. Following them not only keeps you informed about the latest developments but also offers insights that can help you move forward in your career.