LinkedIn Unlocked: Build an Authentic Brand with Karen Tisdell

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by LinkedIn or unsure where to start, this conversation with Karen Tisdell will shift how you think about the platform.

Karen is one of Australia’s leading LinkedIn experts, helping professionals and business owners build authentic brands, craft compelling profiles, and connect - without the spammy sales tactics.

In this episode, Karen shares how she turned curiosity into a thriving LinkedIn strategy business, and why connection (not content) is the real key to growth on LinkedIn in 2025.

In This Episode

The early days of LinkedIn and how Karen became one of the first to recognise its potential
Why writing about yourself is so hard and how to sound human, not robotic
The truth about the LinkedIn algorithm in 2025
The mindset shift from vanity metrics to meaningful relationships
How engagement and commenting can transform your brand visibility

Time Stamps

00:00 — Introduction
02:12 — Karen’s journey from recruiter to LinkedIn strategist
07:30 — Why writing your own profile is so hard
10:45 — Embracing imperfection and sharing your authentic story
16:20 — Common LinkedIn mistakes that hold people back
21:40 — Why connections matter more than content
28:00 — The truth about the LinkedIn algorithm in 2025
34:15 — The power of commenting and genuine engagement
38:40 — How to use AI without outsourcing your thinking
42:30 — Overcoming fear of visibility on LinkedIn
46:00 — Final reflections on confidence, courage, and connection

Key Takeaways

Building your brand on LinkedIn starts with connection, not content. Treat it as a community, not just another social platform.
Stop chasing followers — build relationships that matter.
Your personality and story are your edge. Let your quirks and voice shine through.
AI can’t replicate your thinking — your perspective is what makes your content magnetic.
Engagement isn’t just posting — it’s showing up, commenting, and adding to the conversation.

Resources and Links