Why Relying on LinkedIn & Instagram Newsletters Is a Risky Strategy (And Where to Build Instead)

The Illusion of Control: How Platforms Keep You Trapped

Social media platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram have introduced newsletter tools (LinkedIn’s "Newsletters", Instagram’s "Broadcast Channels") to keep creators—and their audiences—locked into their ecosystems.

But here’s the truth: These tools benefit the platform far more than they benefit you.

1. The Algorithm Works Against You (Even If Your Content Is Great)

• Instagram’s feed prioritizes Reels over static posts, meaning your newsletter link may never reach followers.

• LinkedIn’s algorithm throttles organic reach unless you pay for promotion.

• Example: A finance creator posts a LinkedIn newsletter about Roth IRA strategies—only 5-10% of followers actually see it unless they engage constantly.

2. Links Are Buried (On Purpose)

• Instagram doesn’t allow clickable links in posts or comments—only "Link in Bio" (forcing extra steps).

• LinkedIn allows links, but external links get less reach than native content.

• Example: A budgeting coach shares a free tool via Instagram—followers must exit the app, go to bio, find the link, and then click. Drop-off rates skyrocket.

3. You Don’t Own Your Audience

• If LinkedIn/Instagram bans your account or changes policies, you lose everything.

• Example: A real estate agent’s Instagram was accidentally flagged—her 50K followers vanished overnight. No way to contact them.

4. Institutions Already Know This (And Act Accordingly)

• Bloomberg, The Wall Street Journal, and Fortune push readers to their own newsletters—not social media.

• Why? Because 1st-party data (emails) = direct access, no middleman.

• Example: CNBC’s "Money 101" newsletter doesn’t rely on Instagram DMs—it collects emails.

The Solution: Build Where You Control Access

✅ Use Beehiiv/Substack – Own your subscriber list.
✅ Drive traffic from social media to your newsletter – Not the other way around.
✅ Repurpose content – Post snippets on LinkedIn/IG with a "Want the full analysis? Subscribe here." link.

Final Thought

Social media newsletters are a trap disguised as a convenience. The smartest creators (and biggest institutions) don’t rely on platforms—they build assets they own.

Curious what’s possible with your newsletter?