Podcast Summary: The Truth About the LinkedIn Algorithm w/ Richard van der Blom | The Futur Ep 424
Date: March 18, 2026
Host: Chris Do
Guest: Richard van der Blom

Episode Overview

In this high-energy episode, Chris Do sits down with LinkedIn algorithm expert Richard van der Blom for a candid exploration of how real influence is built on LinkedIn in 2026. The pair delve into common myths about "outsmarting" the feed, what truly defines valuable content, how to actually convert attention into business, and Richard’s latest strategic insights from coaching over 200,000 professionals. Their dynamic conversation combines personal philosophy, data-backed best practices, and practical advice, challenging both new and established creators to rethink how they approach LinkedIn.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Two Approaches to Content: Data-Driven vs. Intuitive (00:00–02:58)

• Chris Do’s Approach:
  Chris admits to posting by intuition and emotion, without tracking metrics or following strict strategies.
• Richard van der Blom’s Approach:
  Although known for his analytical prowess, Richard surprises Chris by revealing a similar intuition-based content style.
  • Quote [01:08]:
    “I'm actually more on your side of the spectrum.” – Richard
• Both agree creators should focus less on obsessing over the algorithm and more on instinct and authenticity.

2. The Myth of the LinkedIn Algorithm & The Real Judge: Audience (01:28–02:58)

• Richard clarifies the LinkedIn algorithm doesn’t “punish” bad content—your audience does.
• Quote [02:10]:
  “If you blame the algorithm, you've already admitted you don't create value.” – Richard
• For beginners, data and structure can build confidence but shouldn’t override genuine storytelling and value.

3. What Makes Terrible vs. Valuable Content? (02:58–08:39)

• Chris’s Critiques:

  • Disconnected images, lack of curiosity in headlines, salesy messaging.
  • Quote [03:48]:
    “As soon as I see [a sales post], I'm like... I don't want to read the rest of it.” – Chris

• Richard’s Insights:

  • Personal storytelling works if it creates resonance and adds context.
  • Authenticity and emotional connection drive performance, not “template” tricks.
  • The “just post” advice is misleading—clarity of purpose matters more.
  • Personal brand is about impact on others, not self-promotion.
  • Stats (format mixing, frequency) matter, but results hinge on authentic voice and resonance.

• Memorable Story [05:30]:
  Richard’s most successful post featured a photo with his 72-year-old gardener, illustrating how a heartfelt story about genuine salesmanship sparked massive engagement.

4. Social Selling: Converting Content into Business (08:39–11:37)

• Four Pillars for LinkedIn Social Selling:
  1. Profile Optimization:
     Profiles should be focused on audience value, not just personal achievements.
     • “No one wants to get bitten... make your profile about your target audience.” – Richard
  2. Content Strategy:
     Content is the entry point—nobody searches for you until you show up in their feed.
  3. Engagement Strategy:
     Proactively comment and engage with prospects and peers for massive visibility.
     • Quote [10:20]:
       “If you add 10–20 comments a day, LinkedIn shows you 10–20 times a day. Huge accelerator.” – Richard
  4. Conversion Strategy:
     Don’t wait for inbound leads to convert—proactively connect and converse with engaged prospects.

5. Content Types That Drive Real Results (11:37–13:37)

• Personal Storytelling:
  Builds connection and humanizes the brand.
• Leadership/How-To Content:
  (“Here are 8 facts to…” etc.) Drives profile traffic and establishes expertise.
  • Quote [12:26]:
    “Those are the two that for me really stand out.” – Richard

6. Future-Proofing Your LinkedIn Strategy (13:37–15:16)

• AI Content Risks:
  Avoid losing your genuine voice in a flood of AI-generated and template-based posts.
  • “Don't underestimate the intelligence of your clients… they know if it’s AI or truly you.” – Richard
• Conversation as the Key KPI:
  DMs and deep conversations matter more than reach or viral tricks.
• Engagement is Expanding:
  Not just your posts—your comments, DMs, and reposts are critical to your influence.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On blaming the algorithm:
  “Blaming the algorithm means you are admitting you don't create value.” – Richard (02:10)
• On “just post” advice:
  “That’s the worst advice you can give. You need to have at least a certain feeling about the impact you want to have.” – Richard (06:15)
• On profile mistakes:
  “One of them even had ‘I’m a pit bull. If I bite, I don’t let go until my client buy from me.’ Imagine this guy sending out an invite… No one wants to get bitten!” – Richard (09:32)
• On authentic engagement:
  “If you add 10–20 comments a day, LinkedIn shows you 10–20 times a day. Huge accelerator.” – Richard (10:20)
• On AI and sameness:
  “The risk is that we lose our own voice to AI… Don’t underestimate the intelligence of your clients.” – Richard (14:01)
• Chris’s takeaway:
  “My excitement is now at peak. I need to go do some work.” – Chris (15:16)

Timestamps for Key Segments

• 00:00–02:58: Two styles—data-driven vs. intuitive posting
• 02:58–08:39: Defining valuable (and terrible) content; storytelling that works
• 08:39–11:37: Four pillars of LinkedIn social selling
• 11:37–13:37: Content types that drive traffic and authority
• 13:37–15:16: The future: AI, engagement, and KPIs that matter

Overall Tone

Frank, practical, and refreshingly unfiltered—both Chris and Richard encourage a balance between strategic guidance and honest, personality-driven content. The discussion is driven by friendly banter and hard-won insights from years on the platform.

For further details and show notes, visit thefutur.com/podcast.