Dan Sherrard-Smith on Re-training the LinkedIn Algorithm for Lead Generation

In a recent LinkedIn post, Dan Sherrard-Smith discusses the significant shifts in LinkedIn’s algorithm and offers strategies for business professionals to adapt their content approach for effective lead generation in 2026. Sherrard-Smith emphasizes that perceived declines in content performance are not due to a decrease in content quality but rather a fundamental change in how the platform distributes posts.

Understanding the New Algorithm’s Priorities

Sherrard-Smith highlights that the algorithm’s core priorities have evolved from simply rewarding engagement metrics like likes and comments to a more nuanced focus on context. He explains that the algorithm now analyzes a user’s profile, their content, and their engagement patterns to determine relevance.

“The new algorithm prioritises context. It looks at: Your profile, You content, Your comments If those 3 parts are not aligned. It won’t show your content to your potential clients.”

This shift means that misalignment between a user’s stated professional identity and their actual engagement can lead to the algorithm miscategorizing them. As Dan Sherrard-Smith notes, this can result in content being shown to competitors rather than ideal clients.

The Danger of Algorithmic Misalignment

According to Dan Sherrard-Smith, a common pitfall occurs when professionals primarily engage with peers in their own industry. For example, a marketing consultant who predominantly interacts with other consultants might be perceived by the algorithm as someone interested in consultant-focused content, leading to their posts being distributed within that same group.

Sherrard-Smith warns about the consequences of this misalignment:

“Reach drops dramatically (up to 47% to be precise..) And your content is pushed out to your competitors… NOT to the ideal clients who hire you.”

This misdirection can lead to discouragement, reduced posting frequency, and ultimately, abandonment of the platform for lead generation efforts, a path Sherrard-Smith urges professionals to avoid.

Strategies for Algorithmic Re-training

The core of Sherrard-Smith’s advice centers on proactively re-training the algorithm to identify and connect with potential buyers. He suggests that professionals need to consciously adjust their engagement and content strategies to signal to LinkedIn who their target audience is.

Aligning Profile, Content, and Engagement

In Dan Sherrard-Smith’s view, achieving this requires a holistic approach. Professionals must ensure their LinkedIn profile accurately reflects their target client and the solutions they offer. Equally important is curating content that resonates with these potential clients and actively engaging in conversations within relevant buyer communities, rather than solely within industry peer groups.

“What you actually need… You just need to retrain the algorithm to find your buyers, not your buddies.”

Sherrard-Smith offers further resources, including a downloadable PDF guide, the “2026 LinkedIn Blueprint,” and a three-day virtual workshop designed to teach participants how to effectively re-train the LinkedIn algorithm for audience growth and lead generation.