Scrolling, tapping 👍, moving on… we’ve all done it.
The blue thumbs-up (let’s call it Default Blue) is quick, but it rarely matches the moment. Every post you pass took courage, care or creativity.
Choosing a better-fit reaction—then adding a single helpful sentence—nudges the algorithm, warms relationships, and makes LinkedIn feel more human. Tiny action, big ripple. ✨
What are LinkedIn reactions (and why they matter)
LinkedIn offers six reactions: Like, Celebrate, Support, Love, Insightful, Funny. Think of them as a mini language. When you pick the right one, you send a clearer signal about what you value—and you encourage more of that content in your feed.
Note: LinkedIn hasn’t published evidence that one reaction type “scores” more than another. Reactions are light engagement; quality comments and time spent reading tend to move the needle most. So the winning combo is: pick the reaction that fits, then add a one-liner.
Your reaction menu (what they signal + when to use them)
- 🎉 Celebrate — promotions, launches, awards, milestones.
- Signal: “I’m cheering—keep going!”
- 💜 Support — challenges, vulnerability, requests for help.
- Signal: “I’m with you. You’re not alone.”
- ❤️ Love — shared values, human stories, standout generosity.
- Signal: “This matters to me too.”
- 💡 Insightful — ideas, frameworks, data, how-tos.
- Signal: “That’s useful—more like this, please.”
- 🙂 Funny — light relief, witty takes, relatable mishaps (use thoughtfully).
- Signal: “Thanks for the smile.”
- 👍 Like / Default Blue — neutral acknowledgement.
- Use when: you simply want to nod without adding weight.
The 10-second upgrade to your scroll
- Match the moment: choose the reaction that genuinely fits.
- Add one line: a tiny value-add beats a drive-by every time.
- Spotlight smartly: tag or share only if it truly helps the author.
Swipeable comment prompts
- “Loved the way you explained X—especially the point about Y.”
- “👏 Huge congrats on Z. What was the biggest lesson learned?”
- “Saving this—your tip about ___ will help my clients who ___.”
Why this works (beyond good manners)
Thoughtful reactions and one-line comments:
- Shape your feed: you’ll see more of what helps you and your clients.
- Build rapport: people remember who took a second to be specific.
- Encourage quality: creators post better insights when we reward them.
Free training, come learn with me
Turn your LinkedIn reactions into real results. Join my free webinar, Monday 8 September.
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Conclusion
LinkedIn isn’t about collecting blue thumbs; it’s about building relationships that lead to conversations, opportunities and sales. Pick the reaction that fits, add a single helpful line, and you’ll train your feed, lift your reach, and make someone’s day. Kinder, clearer, more human, hat’s the goal.