Like many currently navigating a career transition, I’ve been spending more time on LinkedIn: connecting with my network and peers, exploring opportunities, tailoring applications to job descriptions, and sharing thoughts as I reflect on my next chapter and possible new direction. Following news of my redundancy, LinkedIn has become more than just a networking tool; it’s a space for visibility and community.
The more I engage with the platform (and I’ve been thinking this for a while), the more I’ve noticed how limited our options are for expressing meaningful reactions to the wealth of content shared, particularly in a professional context. From personal reflections to professional journeys, from sector-wide analysis to moments of resilience, from research to news updates, how we respond and engage with each other matters.
We currently have the following icons to demonstrate our engagement with an update or article – what I like to call the ‘social sentiment’:
Each has its place – ‘like‘, ‘celebrate‘, ‘support‘, ‘love‘, ‘insightful‘, and ‘funny‘ – but, in many cases, they feel too vague, too emotive, or just… not quite right for a professional platform. More appropriate to content you’d interact with on other social platforms in a more personal and lighthearted way? As someone immersed in higher education, leadership, reflective practice, collaboration and learning, I’ve found myself wanting something more aligned with the way I, as a professional, think, feel, and communicate.
What if we reimagined this framework to better reflect professional values like knowledge-sharing, alignment, impact, and recognition?
Here’s a refreshed set of sentiment options designed for professionals, educators, researchers, and leaders – people who think deeply about the content they engage with and want their responses to carry meaning.
- Like (no change). Sometimes, a post is simply enjoyable, agreeable, or timely. A ‘like‘ remains a versatile, low-barrier option and serves as a useful starting point.
- Valuable. Professional gold. Use this to say: “This is applicable. I can use this in practice”. It elevates practical insights and recognises relevance to real-world contexts.
- Constructive. Ideal for posts that offer thoughtful critique, well-reasoned argument, or positive challenge. It’s not about being “negative”; it’s about rigour and reflection.
- Resonates. A softer, relational sentiment: “This aligns with my experiences, beliefs, or challenges.” This is especially relevant for content around identity, leadership, wellbeing, or values.
- Inspiring. For those posts that energise, motivate, or offer vision. Whether it’s a success story, bold idea, or call to action, this says, “This moved me forward.”
- Commend. Formal recognition of contribution, expertise, or leadership. Less emotional than ‘Love‘, more professional than ‘Celebrate‘. Use when someone has made a difference or delivered excellence.
I’ll let other, more creative people argue around the suggested icons/emojis that can be used for each sentiment.
Professional networks like LinkedIn are at their best when they support meaningful dialogue, especially during times of personal or sector-wide change. When our reactions reflect the depth and diversity of our professional values, we raise the quality of engagement. We model respect. We build community.
For those of us navigating redundancy, job searching, or career transitions, this kind of interaction matters even more. The ability to signal support, relevance, inspiration, or constructive feedback with clarity can help foster belonging, open up new opportunities, and reinforce a culture of care and contribution.
It’s not just about being seen; it’s about being understood.
Photo adapted from Blair Fraser on Unsplash
