Updated May 2026 · 9 min read

How to Write LinkedIn Posts That Get Reach (2026 Guide)

High-performing LinkedIn posts in 2026 follow a 4-part formula: Hook → Loop → Value → Question. Below is the playbook, the 8 templates that consistently break 100k impressions, and the rules the algorithm rewards.

The 4-part formula

1. Hook (line 1): Under 12 words. Curiosity, contradiction, or a number.
2. Loop (lines 2–3): Expand without resolving. Earns the "see more" click.
3. Value (lines 4–10): Short paragraphs. One idea per line. Whitespace.
4. Question (last line): Single, specific, easy to answer.

8 templates that work in 2026

Contrarian: "Everyone says X. They're wrong. Here's why…"
Story: "3 years ago I was Y. Today I'm Z. The one decision that changed it…"
List: "7 lessons from N years doing X."
Teardown: "I analyzed 100 of X. The top 3 patterns…"
Mistake: "I lost $X doing Y. Don't make my mistake."
Framework: "The Z framework that doubled our [metric]."
Question: "What's the one thing you wish you knew before X?"
Behind-the-scenes: "Here's exactly how we ship a feature in 48 hours."

Rules the algorithm rewards

1,200–1,600 characters
No external links in the body (put them in first comment)
3–5 hashtags, no more
Respond to every comment in the first hour
Post at 8–10 AM local time, Tue–Thu

FAQ

How long should a LinkedIn post be?

Between 1,200 and 1,600 characters. Posts under 500 chars under-perform; posts over 2,000 lose reach after the 'see more' click.

What makes a good LinkedIn hook?

A first line under 12 words that creates curiosity, contradicts a belief, or promises a specific outcome. The hook must work before the 'see more' fold.