LinkedIn has emerged as a go-to platform for professionals networking and sharing content. Scheduling posts can save time and expand reach. However, LinkedIn’s free account options limit scheduling capabilities. If you’re wondering, “Can I schedule LinkedIn posts without a premium account?” the answer is yes, but you need to use workarounds.
Introduction
Scheduling allows planning content in advance for automated posting at optimal times. Benefits include:
- Time savings from batch scheduling
- Ability to post consistently
- Increased engagement by timing posts strategically
However, LinkedIn’s scheduling features are restricted to free users. Premium business accounts unlock more functionality.
Scheduling Options Without Premium
Here are your current scheduling options without upgrading:
LinkedIn Mobile App
The LinkedIn mobile app allows scheduling one post at a time up to 30 days out. This provides limited flexibility.
Third-Party Scheduling Tools
Third-party platforms like Buffer, Hootsuite, and SmarterQueue offer free scheduling with increased capabilities on LinkedIn.
Top Free Third-Party Tools
These scheduling tools offer generous free plans:
Buffer
Buffer allows simple queuing of content with valuable analytics in their free version.
Hootsuite
Hootsuite provides limited free scheduling to various social platforms, including LinkedIn.
SmarterQueue
SmarterQueue gives free users the ability to schedule up to 10 LinkedIn posts per month.
Sendible
Sendible has a forever free plan for scheduling 10 posts monthly to LinkedIn and other sites.
Maximizing Free Scheduling Tools
Make the most of free third-party scheduling tools by:
Posting frequency
Post 1-2 times per weekday to maintain visibility without oversaturation.
Multimedia content
Bulk uploads a variety of engaging image and video posts into your queue.
Audience targeting
Tailor content like industry articles specifically to your followers’ interests.
Analytics review
Study performance data and optimize your approach over time.
Supplementing Scheduled Content
Don’t rely solely on scheduling. Also:
Engagement
Like and comment on other’s posts to connect daily.
Networking
Grow your network by sending connection requests.
Joining conversations
Actively participate in relevant LinkedIn Groups.
When to Upgrade to Premium
If you find your needs exceeding free tool capabilities, premium LinkedIn accounts provide added scheduling flexibility and more extensive analytics.
Conclusion
While premium tools unlock most LinkedIn scheduling functionality, free third-party platforms provide helpful capabilities for free accounts. Use tools strategically, along with active engagement and networking, to maximize your LinkedIn presence.
FAQs
Does the standard free LinkedIn account allow scheduling?
Yes, but only 1 post at a time via mobile app. Third-party apps offer expanded free scheduling.
What are the post limits for free accounts on Buffer and SmarterQueue?
Buffer has unlimited scheduling for free. SmarterQueue limits free plans to 10 monthly scheduled posts.
Can I schedule multimedia posts like videos without premium?
Yes, free third-party tools generally allow the scheduling of multimedia, not just text posts.
Does scheduling replace the need for direct LinkedIn engagement?
No. You still need active participation beyond just your automated scheduled posts to connect.
If I use the free mobile app scheduling, can I still use third-party tools?
Yes, the LinkedIn mobile scheduling does not restrict you from leveraging third-party platforms. Use both.