How to Ask for a LinkedIn Recommendation: A Strategic Guide

Asking for a LinkedIn recommendation might feel like navigating a social minefield, but it’s a crucial step in building a powerful and credible professional online presence. The key is to be strategic, personalized, and considerate. The optimal approach involves identifying individuals who can genuinely speak to your skills and contributions, crafting a personalized request that reminds them of your work together and highlights specific achievements, and making the process as easy as possible for them. Remember, a strong recommendation is a valuable asset that can significantly enhance your profile and career prospects.

Crafting the Perfect Recommendation Request

1. Identify the Right Recommender

Don’t just blast out requests to everyone in your network. Strategic recommendations are far more impactful than generic ones. Consider these factors:

• Direct Experience: Who has directly witnessed your work and can speak to your skills firsthand? Think managers, supervisors, colleagues, clients, or even professors from relevant academic projects.
• Credibility and Influence: A recommendation from a respected figure in your industry carries more weight. Aim for individuals with established reputations and strong networks.
• Relevance to Your Goals: Tailor your requests to those whose endorsement aligns with your career aspirations. If you’re aiming for a management role, a recommendation highlighting your leadership skills is invaluable.

2. Personalize Your Request

Generic requests are easily ignored. Show that you’ve put thought into your request by:

• Reminding Them of Your Work Together: Briefly recap a project or situation where you collaborated and the positive outcome you achieved. This jogs their memory and provides context for their recommendation. For example, “I’m reaching out because I remember how much we accomplished together on the [Project Name] project, and I believe your insight into my problem-solving skills would be extremely valuable.”
• Highlighting Specific Skills or Achievements: Don’t leave them guessing what to write about. Suggest specific skills you’d like them to emphasize. “I’m particularly proud of the impact I had on improving team efficiency during my time working on [Task]. If you feel that you can speak to my effectiveness in that area, a recommendation would be greatly appreciated.”
• Mentioning Shared Connections or Common Ground: If you share a common interest, alma mater, or mutual connection, mentioning it can create a stronger sense of rapport.

3. Make It Easy for Them

Respect their time and make the process as seamless as possible:

• Offer Examples or Talking Points: Suggest specific areas they could address or provide a brief outline of points you’d like them to cover. This helps them get started and ensures the recommendation aligns with your needs. You might say, “If it’s helpful, I’d be happy to provide some specific examples of my work that you could reference.”
• Acknowledge Their Time Commitment: Express your gratitude for their consideration and acknowledge that writing a recommendation takes time and effort.
• Provide a Deadline (Optional): If you need the recommendation by a specific date, politely mention it, but be flexible. Don’t pressure them.

4. Choose the Right Communication Channel

While LinkedIn’s built-in recommendation request feature is convenient, consider a more personal approach:

• Email: This allows for more detailed explanations and personalization.
• LinkedIn Message: Use this if you have a strong existing connection on the platform.
• In-Person (When Appropriate): For closer colleagues, a face-to-face conversation can be a more effective way to initiate the request.

5. Say Thank You

This is crucial! Once you receive a recommendation, express your sincere gratitude. A simple “thank you” goes a long way in maintaining positive relationships. Consider sending a personalized thank-you note or even offering to reciprocate with a recommendation for them.

FAQs: Mastering the Art of Recommendation Requests

1. How many recommendations should I have on LinkedIn?

Aim for at least 3-5 recommendations, but quality trumps quantity. Focus on securing strong, impactful recommendations from relevant sources rather than accumulating a large number of generic endorsements.

2. Is it okay to ask for a recommendation from a former colleague who is now a competitor?

This is a delicate situation. If you have a strong, positive relationship and they can genuinely speak to your skills without compromising their current position, it might be acceptable. However, exercise caution and consider the potential for conflicts of interest.

3. What if someone declines my recommendation request?

Don’t take it personally. They might be genuinely busy or uncomfortable writing a recommendation for various reasons. Thank them for their consideration and move on. Don’t pressure them.

4. Can I write a draft recommendation for someone to edit?

While this can be a time-saver, proceed with caution. It can appear disingenuous if the recommendation sounds overly scripted. Only offer this if the person specifically requests it or if you have a very close relationship. Focus on providing helpful talking points instead.

5. How long should a LinkedIn recommendation be?

Aim for a concise and impactful recommendation, around 2-3 paragraphs. Focus on highlighting key skills and achievements in a clear and engaging manner. Avoid lengthy, rambling testimonials.

6. Should I offer to write a recommendation for someone in exchange for one from them?

While reciprocity is a good principle, avoid explicitly framing it as a quid pro quo. Focus on genuinely offering to write a recommendation if you believe you can provide valuable insights. The other person may then reciprocate, but let it happen organically.

7. Is it appropriate to ask for a recommendation from a subordinate?

Generally, it’s not recommended. It can create an awkward power dynamic and might not be perceived as credible by others. Focus on seeking recommendations from superiors, peers, or clients.

8. How often should I update my LinkedIn recommendations?

Regularly update your recommendations, especially after completing significant projects or taking on new roles. This keeps your profile fresh and relevant and showcases your ongoing professional growth.

9. What if a recommendation contains inaccurate or outdated information?

Politely contact the person who wrote the recommendation and explain the issue. Ask if they would be willing to update it to reflect the correct information.

10. Can I hide a LinkedIn recommendation if I don’t like it?

Yes, you can hide recommendations from appearing on your profile. This is a useful option if a recommendation is poorly written, inaccurate, or irrelevant.

11. How long after working with someone is it appropriate to ask for a recommendation?

The sooner, the better! Memories fade over time, so it’s best to ask while your work together is still fresh in their mind. However, even years later, if you had a significant impact, it’s still worth reaching out.

12. What’s the best subject line for an email asking for a LinkedIn recommendation?

Keep it clear and concise. Examples include:

• Recommendation Request – [Your Name]
• LinkedIn Recommendation Request
• Request for Recommendation – [Project Name]
• Could you write a LinkedIn Recommendation for me?

By following these guidelines and personalizing your approach, you can significantly increase your chances of securing strong, valuable LinkedIn recommendations that will enhance your professional profile and advance your career. Remember, it’s about building relationships and showcasing your skills through the credible endorsements of others. Good luck!