LinkedIn recommendations, those brief testimonials people leave on your profile can be a subtle yet powerful part of your job search. But many professionals wonder: Do recruiters even read them? Are they worth asking for?

The short answer is yes, recruiters do look at LinkedIn recommendations, especially during the shortlisting and final evaluation stages. While they may not base the entire decision on them, strong and relevant recommendations can reinforce your credibility and make your profile stand out from other candidates with similar experience.

Let’s explore how recruiters view LinkedIn recommendations and how you can earn them the right way.

Why LinkedIn Recommendations Still Matter

Recommendations on LinkedIn are public endorsements of your work ethic, communication skills, technical ability, and personality. Here's why they matter:

They Add Human Validation

A recruiter sees your job titles and skills, but a recommendation offers insight into how you worked with others. This adds depth to your profile beyond bullet points.

They Help You Stand Out

In a competitive market like the Gulf, recruiters may view dozens or hundreds of similar profiles. Recommendations can act as social proof, especially if they come from people with reputable titles or companies.

They Can Support a Career Pivot

If you’re switching industries or moving to a new role type, a recommendation from someone who vouches for your transferable skills can ease concerns and highlight your adaptability.

They’re Easy to Skim

Recruiters may not read every word, but a few well-written lines, especially with strong job titles attached, can create a positive impression quickly.

When Do Recruiters Read LinkedIn Recommendations?

Based on recruiter feedback, here’s when recommendations are most likely to be noticed:

• After you apply for a role through LinkedIn.

• When someone refers you and they’re checking your credibility.

• During the final stage of shortlisting, as a supporting factor.

• When hiring for senior, client-facing, or leadership positions.

So while recommendations may not be the first thing a recruiter looks at, they can influence a hiring decision, especially if the rest of your profile checks the basic boxes.

Best Ways to Get LinkedIn Recommendations

Now that you know their value, here’s how to earn recommendations that actually matter:

1. Ask the Right People

Request recommendations from:

• Former managers

• Colleagues you collaborated closely with

• Clients (if you’re in sales, consulting, or freelance)

• Professors or supervisors (for fresh graduates)

Avoid asking people who barely know your work or those who will give generic praise.

2. Be Specific in Your Request

Don’t just say “Can you write me a recommendation?” Instead, guide them. For example:

“Would you be comfortable writing a short recommendation based on the project we worked on last year, especially around how we handled the client deadline?”

This helps the person focus on details that recruiters find valuable.

3. Offer to Return the Favor

Often, people are more open to giving you a recommendation if you offer one in return. You might write:

“I’d love to write a recommendation for you as well. Would that be helpful?”

4. Time It Right

Ask for a recommendation:

• Right after completing a successful project

• When someone compliments your work

• Before leaving a company

• After finishing a freelance or consulting engagement

Fresh impressions lead to more genuine testimonials.

5. Keep It Balanced

Aim for 3–5 quality recommendations on your profile. If they’re all from the same job or same type of role, try to diversify. A few strong, relevant endorsements are better than many vague ones.

Tips for Writing Recommendations (If You Want to Be Asked in Return)

• Mention the context: What did the person do?

• Highlight a specific project, achievement, or trait.

• Keep it short and sincere, 3–5 lines is enough.

• End with a sentence on what makes them great to work with.

Example:

“I had the pleasure of working with Rami on the XYZ Project. His ability to manage complex data and lead a team under tight deadlines was impressive. He communicates clearly, stays calm under pressure, and always supports his colleagues. I’d be glad to work with him again.”

LinkedIn recommendations may not be the most critical part of your job hunt, but they absolutely matter. Think of them as character references in public view that support your professional story.

They don’t guarantee a job, but when a recruiter is choosing between you and someone else, a thoughtful recommendation might be the edge that tips the scale in your favor.

Make it a goal this week to reach out to one or two past colleagues or clients and request a recommendation. It takes just a few minutes, and it can make a big difference.

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