I often get asked the question “What is the best way to ask for a LinkedIn recommendation?” But before I answer that, I want to explain the benefits you will gain from requesting and displaying recommendations on LinkedIn.
LinkedIn remains the most popular online platform for all professionals to maintain their professional reputation. Whether you are gainfully employed or a job seeker, displaying positive recommendations matters. This is because a recommendation is synonymous with a reference. However, in some respects, a LinkedIn recommendation could be considered a superior method of promoting your skill and qualities, and here’s why…
LinkedIn Recommendations reveal more than traditional references letters
Not only can it be difficult to obtain more than a basic confirmation of your job title and employment dates via the traditional reference gathering process, but relying on others to provide feedback at the final stages of the recruitment journey can cause unwanted delays.
LinkedIn Recommendations offer feedback from different perspectives
LinkedIn recommendations evolve with your career. We change jobs, locations and even careers so to remain relevant, you want to be sure your recommendations are updated too. LinkedIn recommendations also provide perspectives of your work from all angles by allowing you to display recommendations from colleagues, managers, clients, friends, teachers, and anyone you think could add significant value to your profile.
LinkedIn Recommendations are written by real people
Unlike reference letters (in MS Word or Email) its difficult to fake LinkedIn recommendations. That’s because each recommendation is connected to a real person’s profiles, which means they can be followed back to the author if more information is required.
LinkedIn Recommendations make you more credible
There have been many studies that prove we are more likely to trust a person, product or service that numerous people have recommended positively compared to someone who has nothing to show. I often speak with prospective clients who have decided to contact or purchase from me as a result of seeing the numerous recommendations on my own LinkedIn profile. In summary, recommendations back up all the information and experience on your profile and make you more credible.
“In summary, recommendations back up all the information and experience on your profile and make you more credible.”
So how do I get recommended?
Don’t be afraid to ask current and past colleagues or any of the connection types listed above for a recommendation. This can be achieved easily in two ways.
- By selecting ‘Ask for a recommendation’ on your profile.
2. By clicking the ‘More…’ tab next to the blue message button at the top of the person’s profile.
Select the relationship you had with the person you worked with or provided a service along with the corresponding position you held at the time.
In the past, LinkedIn’s default request for recommendation text was quite polite and professional. These days, it’s impersonal and rather blunt so I recommend personalising every request by suggesting what skills or work they could address.
How do I add a recommendation to my page?
LinkedIn will notify you that you have a recommendation via your Messages tab. You’ll have the option to review it before and ask for changes if necessary before accepting and adding to your profile.
Conclusion
At a time when user reviews and online feedback form the basis of so many hiring and purchasing decisions, professional references can provide much-needed social proof for those considering engaging in your recruitment services. Luckily, LinkedIn’s Recommendations section makes it easy for you to display your glowing reviews, so you can make the most of this valuable feature.
About the author: Amelia Brooke is the founder of ABCV Solutions, the UK’s only CV Writing and Social Media Management company that’s solely dedicated to the engineering sector. Connect with her on LinkedIn.
