How to Fix LinkedIn Hashtags Not Working

LinkedIn has become an integral platform for professionals to network, build their personal brand, and engage with industry peers. As such, optimizing your LinkedIn presence is key to getting the most out of the platform.

One great way to increase your visibility and reach more of your target audience on LinkedIn is through the strategic use of hashtags. Hashtags allow you to categorize content, make it more discoverable, and tap into larger conversations.

However, sometimes LinkedIn hashtags may inexplicably stop working. You add relevant hashtags to your posts, but they don’t lead to any additional engagement or views.

If you’ve noticed your LinkedIn hashtags failing to work as expected, don’t panic. In most cases, there are troubleshooting steps you can take to get them functioning again.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover:

• Why LinkedIn hashtags may not be working
• Verified fixes to try when LinkedIn hashtags aren’t working.
• Tips to optimize future hashtag use for better results

Let’s get started!

Why Are My LinkedIn Hashtags Not Working?

Before diving into solutions, it helps to understand the potential reasons why LinkedIn hashtags aren’t working. Here are some of the most common reasons why it may seem that LinkedIn is removing hashtags:

Typos or Formatting Issues

One simple explanation could be that your hashtags contain inadvertent typos or formatting mistakes.

For instance, an extra space within the hashtag could break its functionality. Or a single misspelled letter could render it useless.

It’s easy to overlook minor typos and spacing errors. But with hashtags, every character counts. We’ll cover some typo-related fixes shortly.

Violation of LinkedIn Policies

While LinkedIn wants you to leverage hashtags, there are some best practices you must follow. If your hashtag usage violates any of their policies, LinkedIn may restrict their functionality for your account.

For example, LinkedIn prohibits the use of extremely generic, irrelevant, or repetitive hashtags. If your hashtags are overly promotional without adding value, that could also trigger issues.

We’ll explore how reviewing and adjusting your strategy can help overcome policy-related blocks.

Limitations of LinkedIn’s Algorithm

LinkedIn uses sophisticated algorithms to determine visibility and deliver content to users. Changes to these algorithms can inadvertently downgrade the reach of hashtags.

For instance, if you previously used a hashtag that was working well, recent algorithm shifts may have impacted it.

While you can’t control the algorithm, you can optimize hashtags based on current best practices.

LinkedIn App or Website Glitches

Like any platform, LinkedIn can experience periodic glitches on their app or website, whether site-wide or affecting individual accounts.

Sometimes hashtag functionality may lag or fail due to a temporary technical hiccup.

If site or app issues are to blame, the problem should eventually resolve on its own. But you can try techniques like refreshing, updating, or reinstalling the app as well.

As you can see, various scenarios can potentially lead to LinkedIn hashtags not working. The good news is there are solutions for recovering hashtag functionality in all of these cases.

Fixes for LinkedIn Hashtags or Hashtag Suggestions Not Working

If you’ve noticed your LinkedIn hashtags failing, don’t panic. In most instances, you can get them working again through targeted troubleshooting.

Here are some practical fixes to try when your LinkedIn hashtags aren’t working:

1. Check Your Internet Connection

An stable internet connection is essential for hashtag functionality. Before tackling platform-specific issues, rule out networking problems on your end.

Confirm that your WiFi or mobile data signal is strong. Try loading other websites or apps that involve refreshing feeds—if they struggle too, that points to a larger connectivity issue interfering with LinkedIn.

If your overall connection seems shaky, reset network devices, disable VPNs, switch connections, or physically move devices until signal strength improves.

Solid connectivity is vital for LinkedIn APIs to track hashtag metrics properly. With a firm networking foundation, other fixes become likelier to succeed.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to check your internet connection:

• Launch your device’s Settings app
• Navigate to the WiFi or Network settings menu
• Check that you have at least 3-4 “bars” of WiFi signal strength showing
• Try loading multiple different websites to check for sluggish speeds across sites
• Run an internet speed test via a site like SpeedTest.net to quantify performance.

• If speeds are consistently slow, reboot your modem/router and retry
• Consider switching WiFi networks or disabling VPN connections temporarily
• Enable mobile data as an alternate networking option to confirm the issue persists
• For persistent speed or connectivity problems, contact your ISP for troubleshooting
• Once your overall internet access appears stable, retry LinkedIn hashtags

Following those tips should help you rule out or resolve wider networking issues impacting sites like LinkedIn.

2. Check for Typos

One of the simplest explanations for non-working hashtags is a basic spelling error or typo. After all, even a single incorrect character can break hashtag functionality.

Carefully check all hashtags you’ve included for inadvertent typos. Look for missing or swapped letters, inadvertent spaces, and other easy-to-make mistakes.

If you spot a typo, update the hashtag accordingly. Double and triple check for other potential spelling errors before reposting.

With the prevalence of autocorrect these days, typos can sneak in without us noticing!

To check LinkedIn hashtags for typos:

1. Open the LinkedIn post containing the problematic hashtag(s)
2. Copy the entire hashtag or just the tag itself that isn’t working properly
3. Paste the hashtag into a document or notepad app temporarily
4. Use your device’s text correction/suggestion feature to check spelling
5. Manually inspect each character in the hashtag closely for errors
6. Check for issues like:
   • Missing letters
   • Incorrect or swapped letters
   • Random spaces within the tag
7. Google the hashtag to confirm whether your spelling matches general usage
8. Modify the hashtag directly in your LinkedIn post to match the proper spelling
9. Delete and re-add the corrected version of hashtag from scratch
10. Double and triple check for any other potential typos before reposting publicly

Those steps should catch any unintended misspellings or spacing issues throwing off your hashtags. Repost using the right hashtag spellings.

3. Remove Any Extra Spaces

While we just discussed typos, extra spaces are another common error that can quickly break hashtags.

Hashtags on LinkedIn can’t contain spaces. If an extra space sneaks in, even if the letters are correct, LinkedIn sees it as invalid.

Carefully check whether any of your non-working hashtags have inadvertent spaces within the tag itself. Delete any extra spaces and re-enter or repost the hashtag.

Eliminating unwanted spaces from your hashtags should restore their clickability and categorization power.

4. Place Hashtags Within the First 3 Lines of Your Post

Where you position your hashtags matters, as LinkedIn’s algorithms prioritize those near the top of posts.

Their data shows hashtags included among the first 1-3 lines of content generally receive maximum visibility. This applies to both prose as well as photo posts.

So if your hashtags stopped working, double check their positioning. Move any lagging tags up toward the start of your posts and retry.

To position LinkedIn hashtags properly:

1. Open the LinkedIn post with non-working hashtags
2. Copy down all existing hashtags for reference
3. Delete all current tags so you can remake them optimally
4. Compose 1-2 starting sentences for your post content
5. After your opening statement(s), add your first hashtag
6. Press Enter to drop it down one line
7. Add your second (and third if applicable) hashtags
8. Press Enter after each tag, keeping them among top lines
9. Finish writing the rest of your post content below tags
10. Before posting publicly, visually inspect hashtag placement
    • Ensure all are within the first 1-3 lines of post
11. Turn on LinkedIn Reply Previews to double check formatting
12. Track engagement on repositioned hashtags to confirm improvement

Strategically placing hashtags near the top of your posts gives them the best chance of being seen and clicked. Monitor their renewed performance over time.

5. Use a Maximum of 3 Hashtags in Posts

While using multiple hashtags can help tap into more conversations, less is often more on LinkedIn.

LinkedIn itself recommends limiting hashtags to no more than 3 per post. Any more than that risks appearing spammy.

So if your hashtags suddenly stopped working, prune them down to a maximum of 3 per post. Identify the most relevant, popular tags aligned to your content’s goals.

Consolidate peripheral hashtags so you aren’t spreading visibility across too many categories. A focused strategy drives better results.

To use an optimal number of LinkedIn hashtags:

1. Open the LinkedIn post containing your current non-working tags
2. Copy down all existing hashtags in use (delete current tags after)
3. Review performance of current tags to identify strongest options
4. Delete all existing hashtags from the post so you can add revised ones
5. Choose no more than 3 top-performing hashtags to re-add
6. Ensure your 3 selected tags clearly align to content goals/topics
7. Paste or manually re-enter your 3 optimized hashtags
8. Ensure re-added tags are still positioned among the first lines
9. Delete any additional low-value hashtags previously over the 3 tag recommendation
10. Before publishing, double check you have 3 or fewer hashtags total
11. Consider simplifying multiple word hashtags if still over the limit
12. Moving forward, maintain discipline of only using 3 tags per post

Closely monitoring use of more than 3 hashtags will lead to better engagement.

6. Utilize Relevant and Industry-Specific Hashtags

Generic hashtags might seem like an easy way to tap into larger conversations. But for professional networks like LinkedIn, targeted tags tailored to your industry perform infinitely better.

Take inventory of your current hashtag mix. If enhanced relevancy could help, search LinkedIn content in your niche for tag inspiration from top voices.

Aim for a hashtag shortlist clearly tied to your professional field. While you can include one broader category hashtag if essential, most should directly align with your industry and content themes.

Here is how to make LinkedIn hashtags industry-relevant:

1. Reference your list of existing hashtags that stopped working
2. Review each one, asking yourself:
   • Is this tag industry-specific?
   • Or is it overly broad?
3. Search recent LinkedIn posts in your professional niche
4. Take note of top niche hashtags used by influential accounts
5. Compile a shortlist mixing niche terms with 1-2 broad tags
6. Replace your current tags with more tailored combinations
7. Align new selection tightly to your target industry and content
8. Use LinkedIn’s “Follow Hashtag” to track engagement of new tags
9. Continue optimizing hashtag mix based on performance data
10. Over time, customize hashtags for your unique brand identity
11. Consider creating original branded hashtags your audience can Rally behind

The more relevant your tags are, the more targeted exposure your content will receive.

7. Research Popular and Trending Hashtags

While niche hashtags are ideal for targeting your core professional community, it can also help to incorporate trending tags with current buzz.

LinkedIn surfaces popular hashtags gaining steam across the platform. Keep an eye out for these trends ripe for tapping into.

You can also turn to social listening tools like RiteTag to identify top hashtags within your industry. Use these tools to quantify usage behind top trending terms.

Review potential trending tags, confirming relevance. Where logical overlaps exist with your content goals, consider integrating select trending terms among niche tags in your mix.

Here is a step-by-step guide to research trending LinkedIn hashtags:

1. When adding hashtags, check LinkedIn’s “Popular Hashtags” module
2. Take note of current rising trends relevant to your content
3. Visit hashtag tracking sites like RiteTag to quantify tag usage
4. Explore most popular recent hashtags within your profession
5. Compare niche vs. trending terms to identify overlaps
6. Compile a list mixing select trending tags with industry terms
7. Use tools like Tagdef to confirm definitions and relevance
8. Swap non-working tags for aligned trending terms
9. Use LinkedIn signal boosting features to increase reach
10. To confirm value, disable individual trending tags to compare engagement
11. Favor niche over trending hashtags where possible
12. Continually evolve hashtag mix based on latest data

Adding relevant trending hashtags introduces your content to wider conversations.

8. Avoid Overly Generic Hashtags

On the flip side, overly vague or expansive hashtags aren’t ideal either. For example, simply tagging a post #business or #networking likely won’t move the needle.

Generic tags cast too wide a net for the LinkedIn audience. Yes, they technically tap into larger conversations—but not necessarily the right ones.

For each of your hashtags, consider its specificity to your goals. Could it be replaced with a more niche tag relevant to your particular professional subset?

Don’t let generic tags dilute your strategy. Specificity is crucial.

Step-by-Step Guide

Here is a step-by-step guide to avoid vague LinkedIn hashtags:

1. Audit hashtags that seem overly vague or generic
2. For each broad tag, research alternatives aligning to your niche
3. Search industry leader posts on LinkedIn for tag inspiration
4. Craft a list of at least 3-5 more niche substitutes per vague hashtag
5. Evaluate substitutes, selecting preferred alternatives per original
6. Swap each hazy hashtag for an aligned niche option instead
7. Favor niche terms over wider ones even if latter have more volume
8. Use LinkedIn’s Tag Definitions to verify chosen tags match your goals
9. The more precise the tag, the more relevant exposure you’ll receive
10. Confirm improved click performance from better targeted alternatives
11. Set calendar reminders to continually seek and swap in more niche hashtags

Exchanging generic for precise LinkedIn hashtags leads to content views that actually convert.

9. Create Unique, Branded Hashtags

While third-party hashtags can provide initial traction, developing your own signature tags is powerful for the long term.

LinkedIn strongly recommends brainstorming original branded hashtags uniquely tied to your business, offerings, or campaigns.

You have full control over branded tags, making them ideal for promoting content supporting key initiatives. Their exclusivity makes them easier for ideal followers to find too.

Here is a guide to create branded LinkedIn hashtags:

1. Audit existing hashtag mix for opportunities to improve branding
2. Align in-use tags to current business priorities or upcoming initiatives
3. Identify 2-3 top campaigns lacking hashtag support on LinkedIn currently
4. For each priority, brainstorm original branded hashtags ideas
5. Compare options to confirm chosen hashtag(s) align to goals
6. Use tag checking tools to validate branded tags are available
7. Add chosen campaign hashtag(s) to relevant LinkedIn posts
8. Share posts containing new tags to expand reach rapidly
9. In campaign communications, proactively promote use of branded tags
10. Use LinkedIn analytics to quantify engagement with new hashtags
11. Continue iterating hashtags tied to latest content and offerings

Branded hashtags boost campaign visibility while showcasing your unique identity.

10. Monitor Hashtag Performance

Hashtag usage should remain a strategic, ever-evolving process based on performance data.

After rebooting your tags, track metrics like reach and engagement for each. How many impressions did posts with a given hashtag receive? How many profile visits or content clicks?

Use LinkedIn’s analytics to quantify impact of specific tags. Identify top performers driving the most visits, engagement minutes, reactions, and shares.

As the data comes in, double down on well-performing hashtags in future content. Phase out underwhelming tags showing little value comparatively.

Regularly reviewing analytics ensures you double down on what works.

11. Experiment with Different Hashtag Combinations

Don’t be afraid to test out new hashtag combinations if you hit a plateau.

While core hashtags likely remain part of your mix, introducing fresh complementary tags keeps tactics dynamic.

Brainstorm imaginative yet logical tag pairings aligned to content themes. Play with blending niche terms, trending topics, and branded hashtags for novel permutations.

Use A/B testing frameworks to confirm whether new variations positively influence reach and engagement over time. Don’t overhaul all hashtags simultaneously, limiting variables.

Review efficacy of hashtag experiments monthly, cementing winner combinations.

Step-by-Step Guide

Here are steps to A/B test LinkedIn hashtag mixes:

1. If current hashtag performance flatlines, it’s time for tests
2. Resist changing all tags at once, which restricts insights
3. Draft 2-3 test combinations mixing established and new terms
4. Add Combination A to upcoming posts for 1-2 weeks
5. After initial period, switch to test Combination B for 1-2 weeks
6. View analytics during each period, noting measurable differences
   • Clicks, Reactions, Shares, Follows, Comments
7. At month’s end, compare metrics to determine winning hashtag mix
8. Formalize best blend moving forward based on data
9. Schedule periodic combination tests to keep options fresh
10. While core terms remain, complementary tags can evolve

A/B tests prevent hashtag fatigue while uncovering what uniquely resonates.

12. Engage With Other Posts Using Relevant Hashtags

If you solely add hashtags without engaging the corresponding communities, visibility can stall quickly.

Regularly interact with other top posts featuring your hashtags via likes, shares, and thoughtful comments. Don’t purely promote your content.

Building community rapport is crucial. Proactively liking and reposting other accounts’ related updates increases your discoverability in those hashtag feeds.

Here are steps to engage your LinkedIn hashtag communities:

1. Search for top posts using each of your core hashtags
2. Follow those accounts to receive future hashtagged content
3. Read through posts, generating authentic responses
4. Add thoughtful comments where dialogue makes sense
5. Appropriately like/share posts even without commenting
6. Repost (quote share) external posts you find valuable
7. Create fresh hashtagged posts sharing relevant updates
8. Ask account owners relevant questions to continue conversations
9. Set reminders to regularly check in on your hashtag feeds
10. Don’t just push your agenda—actively participate in discussions

Two-way engagement using your hashtags leads to heightened visibility.

Conclusion

There you have it—a comprehensive guide to troubleshooting and preventing LinkedIn hashtags from not working!

First, dig into why tags may have stopped functioning for your account. Then walk through tangible solutions ranging from fixing typos to engaging hashtag communities more actively over time. And incorporate ongoing best practices in order to maximize the reach and ROI of your hashtag efforts moving forward.

Consistent optimization based on latest performance data will ensure your LinkedIn hashtags contribute to your growth rather than stagnate.

Do any additional common issues crop up involving LinkedIn hashtags in your experience? What steps have proven most effective? Share your thoughts and hashtag tips below!