In a world where professional networking plays a vital role, LinkedIn recommendations are a hidden gem that can elevate your profile. Think of them as testimonials—public endorsements that give credibility to your skills and experience. Yet, many of us struggle to write an effective one. In this blog, I’ll guide you on how to write a good LinkedIn recommendation, share examples for different roles, and offer tips to make your recommendations impactful.
Why LinkedIn Recommendations Matter
LinkedIn recommendations are not just simple compliments. They serve as evidence of your professional capabilities and soft skills, adding significant value to your profile. According to LinkedIn data, users with recommendations are more likely to receive connection requests and engagement on their profile. So, how do you ensure you’re writing a recommendation that stands out?
The Power of Social Proof
When hiring managers or recruiters visit your profile, they look for more than just a list of skills. A well-crafted recommendation validates your professional claims and adds a layer of authenticity. Whether you’re writing for a manager, colleague, or client, a compelling recommendation can set them apart from the competition.
Key Elements of a Good LinkedIn Recommendation
Writing a LinkedIn recommendation isn’t difficult if you follow a few key principles. Here’s a quick rundown of what you should include:
- Relationship Context: Always clarify how you know the person, whether you were their manager, colleague, or client.
- Specific Achievements: Highlight particular projects or tasks they excelled at.
- Soft Skills: Emphasize qualities like teamwork, leadership, and communication, which are often overlooked but crucial in a work environment.
- Personalization: A recommendation that feels generic won’t have the same impact. Make it personal and sincere.
How to Write a Recommendation on LinkedIn: Step-by-Step Guide
Writing a LinkedIn recommendation may seem daunting, but if you follow this structure, it becomes much easier. Let’s walk through the steps.
1. Start with the Relationship Context
The opening should clearly state your working relationship with the person. This helps set the stage for why you are qualified to speak on their skills.
Example: “I worked with Jane as her direct manager for two years at XYZ Corp.”
2. Mention Key Skills or Achievements
Next, point out specific achievements that show their skillset. Did they lead a successful project? Were they instrumental in driving growth?
Example: “Jane spearheaded our team’s product launch, which resulted in a 25% increase in quarterly revenue.”
3. Highlight Soft Skills
Don’t forget to include soft skills like leadership, teamwork, or problem-solving abilities. These qualities often distinguish a good employee from a great one.
Example: “She is a natural leader who knows how to inspire a team while maintaining a positive and productive work environment.”
4. End with a Strong Closing Statement
Finally, wrap up your recommendation with a strong endorsement. This is where you solidify your praise and recommend them wholeheartedly.
Example: “I highly recommend Jane for any leadership role. Any company would be lucky to have her.”
LinkedIn Recommendation Examples for Different Roles
To make things even easier, here are sample recommendations tailored for various roles. These LinkedIn recommendation examples are customizable to fit different professions and relationships.
LinkedIn Recommendation Example for a Manager
“I had the pleasure of working with [Manager’s Name] for three years at [Company]. Their leadership was instrumental in driving our team to success. They excel in setting clear goals and empowering their team to meet them without micromanaging. Under their leadership, we consistently met and exceeded our targets. I highly recommend [Manager’s Name] as a strong leader and strategic thinker.”
LinkedIn Recommendation Example for a Colleague
“I worked closely with [Colleague’s Name] for two years at [Company]. They have a unique blend of technical skills and interpersonal abilities. [Colleague’s Name] consistently went above and beyond to ensure project success and was always willing to help team members in need. Any team would be lucky to have them.”
LinkedIn Recommendation Example for a Client
“Working with [Client’s Name] has been a rewarding experience. They are highly organized and clear in their communication, which made our collaboration smooth. Their passion for achieving their goals was evident in every meeting. I fully endorse [Client’s Name] and look forward to working together in the future.”
LinkedIn Recommendation Template for a Mentor
“Being mentored by [Mentor’s Name] has been an invaluable experience. Their ability to provide actionable advice while also encouraging personal growth has had a lasting impact on my career. [Mentor’s Name] is not just a mentor but a true advocate for success.”
Tips for Asking for LinkedIn Recommendations
Asking for a recommendation can be nerve-wracking, but following these tips will make it easier:
1. Choose the Right Time: The best time to ask is after completing a successful project or achieving a significant milestone.
2. Be Specific in Your Request: Guide the person by mentioning what specific skills or experiences you’d like them to highlight.
3. Personalize Your Request: Avoid using the generic LinkedIn recommendation request message. Write a personal message.
4. Offer to Reciprocate: You can sweeten the deal by offering to write a recommendation in return.
Example Message:
“Hi [Name], I hope you’re doing well! I’m currently updating my LinkedIn profile and was wondering if you could write a brief recommendation highlighting my work on [specific project]. I’d be happy to return the favor! Thanks in advance.”
How LinkedIn Recommendations Boost Your Career
Now that you know how to write a good LinkedIn recommendation, let’s talk about why they matter. A recommendation adds social proof to your profile, which can make all the difference when a recruiter is deciding between two equally qualified candidates.
Moreover, the recommendations provide a personal touch, making your profile more engaging. With more than 95% of recruiters using LinkedIn to vet candidates, having glowing recommendations can increase your chances of landing a job significantly. According to LinkedIn, profiles with recommendations are more likely to receive InMail messages from recruiters, increasing your visibility in the job market.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a LinkedIn Recommendation
Even though writing a recommendation is relatively straightforward, there are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Being too vague: Make sure to include specific examples rather than general statements.
- Overusing jargon: Stick to simple, clear language. Overly technical terms can make your recommendation harder to understand.
- Making it too long: Keep your recommendation concise and to the point. LinkedIn recommendations should be brief but impactful.
Conclusion
A LinkedIn recommendation isn’t just a formality—it’s a powerful tool for both the giver and the receiver. Whether you’re writing for a colleague, manager, or client, following the steps and examples outlined above will ensure that your recommendations are thoughtful, personalized, and impactful. A well-written recommendation not only helps the person you’re endorsing but also enhances your professional reputation.
So next time someone asks you for a recommendation, or you’re requesting one, remember: this is your chance to provide real value in a few short sentences. Start practicing today, and you’ll quickly become the go-to person for great LinkedIn recommendations!