It’s 2026.
I unplugged for most of the last few weeks.
Today, I’m back on LinkedIn, and looking around, there is little reason for me to come back.
Most of the posts I see feature some AI slop, made-up stories, fear-based marketing, or hot takes from people trying to stand the F out.
Still, LIN gives me a decent following to share some observations, insights, and ideas that others in the business world may find helpful or interesting.
So, in that vein, let me share a few things to help you get more out of this platform without contributing to the shit-swamp it is becoming. Keep reading, especially if your goal is to build a following, have conversations, and land some opportunities.
Turn Offs
- Festishizing AI
- Constantly hating on AI
- AI-generated images and copy
- 3rd-party generated posts
- Rage bait and hot takes
- Phony engagement PODS
- Whining
- Trying to sell me crap
- Virtue signaling
- Straight up BS’n people
Turn Ons
- Real content and insights from YOU
- Authenticity, personality, realness, and vibes that reflect you and your brand
- Imperfections
- Conversations
- Building relationships
That’s it. Pretty simple, if you ask me. It just comes down to real stories (aka content) and real interactions with real people. That’s how humans build relationships. If anyone tries to convince you otherwise, check your sources and their motivations.
Now I’ll ask you, do you agree, and what would you add or remove?
Lastly.
Don’t look at LinkedIn as the solution or the sole channel for creating opportunities for yourself in 2026. The reality is that it is not designed for that; it is designed to make money for Microsoft by selling ads, promoted posts, and paid subscription tiers. The gimmicks and hacks never work; what works has always worked: making real connections with people, being honest and authentic. That’s why the turn-offs never work, and the turn-ons do. Trust your gut, realize how you have accomplished your wins and successes to this point, and keep doing those things.
Feed Your Mind
What I’m Listening To:
This week we had both David Bowie’s and Elvis’ birthdays. So I binged on both these greats. I love the Berlin Trilogy by Bowie. Give those a listen, and for a bonus, the collab of Bowie with Iggy Pop on The Idiot is one of my favorite albums.
For Elvis, I loved the Dave the Spazz show last night, January 8, 2026: Elvis Presley Birthday Clambake special on WFMU. Check it out in the archives here.
What I’m Watching:
The fam and I decided to give Stranger Things a second chance with the kids, so we’ve been working through the episodes. I think seasons one and two are basically it; season three gets pretty awkward and cringe, but we’ll stick with it to the end. Please, no spoilers. And please keep this to yourself, you know how I hate anything popular.
