Looking back at my journey, there were *three keys* to reach 50k:

WOW, 50,000 Followers?! … on my BIRTHDAY?!

Looking back at my journey, there were *three keys* to reach 50k:

1) Strategic #Network Expansion

After asking myself *WHO* I wanted to listen to, I searched LinkedIn by “Job Title.” I came across educators, #STEM professionals, TV producers, and others involved in the fields that interested me.

I hoped that they would find something interesting in me like I found in them. Luckily for me, they did and became my core audience.

Well, not all of them… Bill Gates, I’m looking at you…

2) #Data-Driven Decisions

When I started, I posted everything. Wanna see a male seahorse giving birth? (https://lnkd.in/gzjsW2i8)?

Some posts bombed while others thrived.

Through a process of trial and error, guided by your feedback, I was able to figure out what posts resonated the most.

3) Post with a #Purpose

Even with data, I still want my audience to engage with the “WHY” that sparked the post, even if we disagree.

If I don’t care about my post, why should anyone else care?

When I decided to post about my therapy journey (https://lnkd.in/g-54yMjY), I was worried people would look at me differently or question my masculinity.

But, purpose was my guide… Not only did the post help me understand myself better, it helped others feel comfortable seeking out therapy for themselves.

I cannot fully express my gratitude for my 50,000 fellow dreamers, entrepreneurs, scientists, educators, and creatives.

Thanks to each of you for this tremendous birthday gift.

I am *ALWAYS* learning, so let me know why YOU #engage and what #content you want to see in the future!

For more details, please visit justinshaifer.com.

#STEM #AI #KeynoteSpeaker #Education