Why it’s worth using LinkedIn as an emerging creative, and how to do it right

At a time when social platforms are so often shape-shifting, one of them has remained more consistent for emerging creatives. Far from just a job board, LinkedIn offers a place to be discovered, build genuine connections and grow with purpose. To better understand its value, we asked creatives and industry experts how they’re using the platform and how you can make it work for you.

Social media has changed a lot for creatives over the past few years. While some are navigating the rise of AI-generated content and increasingly noisy feeds, others have decided to step away altogether. But in that time, many users who’ve stuck it out on LinkedIn have found it to be a reliable platform, and one that can help personal brands flourish.

LinkedIn was originally created as a platform for professional networking and career development. While it became widely known as a job-seeking site, it has since evolved into so much more. It's a space where users can build a community, which is ideal for those who prefer to network online.

So why do we think LinkedIn is worth embracing? We've spoken to a range of creatives who have done just that and reaped the benefits. Keep reading for their insights and tips.

Where do I start?

If you’re wondering where to begin, the general advice from experienced creatives is to make sure you’ve polished up your profile as a starting point. This includes writing yourself a strong bio and remembering to highlight your wins. From there, share whatever feels right – whether that’s personal projects, process insights, or visual work.

Don’t have anything ready to post? Leyya Sattar, founder of creative inclusion consultancy and social impact company Other Box, recommends sharing your “voice, values, and perspective.” Be clear on what you care about. “Share your process, not just the finished product. Don’t wait until something is ‘perfect’ to put it out there.”

And if that feels risky? Good. Ben Mottershead, founder and creative director of Never Dull Studio, believes real progress starts outside your comfort zone. “At this stage in your career, your goal shouldn’t be to chase success. It should be to chase failure, learn from it and grow.”

Feel the fear and share anyway!

Self-promotion isn’t always easy, but it starts with simply showing up – and people value openness. For illustrator and content creator Ælfleda Clackson, starting out on LinkedIn “felt pretty embarrassing” and brought on feelings of impostor syndrome. But it got easier with time. “Don’t lose your personality. People will appreciate you for it.” She also reminds us: “They want to see content that gives them something — a story, a lesson, tips, a laugh. Be generous!”

“[LinkedIn’s] become less of a professional hub,” says Ben Mottershead. “You see career updates and industry insights, but it’s dominated by personal branding. It can be useful if you’re looking to build visibility.”

Ben believes the platform rewards extroversion but still sees its potential. “The true value of LinkedIn isn’t in the content itself, but in the people behind it. If you’re more introverted, LinkedIn can be a helpful space to find your voice, explore ideas, and connect on your own terms.”

If you’re looking for more LinkedIn-spiration to take the plunge, F*ck Being Humble founder Stefanie Sword-Williams encourages creators to take up space without the guilt across the platform.

Show others what drives you

Leyya Sattar explains, "In a world that’s crying out for more purpose-led work, platforms like LinkedIn give you space to show not just what you do, but why you do it.” For Leyya, LinkedIn is a space where emerging creatives can “take up room, build communities, and show the world what matters to them.”

Leyya also adds that people connect with “honesty, growth, and passion.” Whether you’re sharing resources, advice or reflecting on your journey, it’s all valid, and it can benefit others in the same position. “Don’t underestimate the power of your lived experience,” she says. “The creative industries need more people who’ve been historically overlooked. Your voice is your superpower.”

Let go of the likes

Like other platforms, it’s easy to get caught in the engagement trap. But LinkedIn isn’t about popularity – it’s about staying top of mind.

Once you stop chasing likes, posting becomes less stressful and more meaningful. “Some of the most meaningful opportunities have come from posts with very few likes,” says Leyya. “The right five people seeing your post can be more valuable than 5,000 likes.”

Even so, for illustrator and content creator Ælfleda Clackson, the algorithm can still be generous. “It’s pretty easy to reach lots of people. Comments are pushed onto feeds, so you don’t need someone to repost your content for it to be seen by their connections.”

Connect with others purposefully

Yes, LinkedIn can feel oversaturated. But that’s often only true if you haven’t found your people yet. Making connections on LinkedIn isn't always a numbers game.

Ben is deliberate about who he connects with – usually those who “genuinely challenge or inspire” him. Ælfleda agrees. She suggests saving five to ten profiles that inspire you to get a feel for what works in your niche.

Leyya Satta's LinkedIn posts

Success stories

Nearly everyone on LinkedIn is doing the same thing: showing who they are and what they do to grow professionally. For many, this means pushing through the fear of self-promotion to claim space online. If you’re not doing it for yourself, who will?

For many creatives, this mindset has opened doors. Ben now works as a visiting lecturer at the University of Hertfordshire – a role he got directly through LinkedIn. “I engaged with a post from the Head of Course, who then messaged me to say some students had spoken highly of me. We arranged a meeting and it led to a formal role.”

For Leyya, opportunities have included public speaking, panel features and consultancy work. “Articles and posts I’ve shared have been seen by editors at major publications, which has led to contributions for Vogue Business, Stylist Magazine, WIRED, and The Guardian,” she says. “It’s not about going viral – it’s about showing up consistently.”

Emerging creatives like Anupa Joshy are another great example. While studying for her master’s, Anupa shared a post opening with the call-out: “Where are all the Brown creatives?” Seven months later, that same post led to her giving a talk on the topic at Imaginary Friend’s Curio 2 event in February 2025. It was a powerful example of how sharing your voice and what drives you can resonate with others and create real opportunities.

Key takeaways

LinkedIn can be a powerful ally as you grow your career, and though it might feel daunting at first, it all starts with small, consistent steps.

By understanding its value, cutting through the noise with authenticity and transparency, you won’t just attract opportunities – you’ll attract the right people. We’ve already mentioned a few inspiring creatives to follow, so start with what you’ve got, share what matters to you, and start embracing the sides of LinkedIn you might have overlooked.

Below is a summary of the most valuable learnings we're taking from speaking to experienced creatives: