A strong LinkedIn profile can open doors. One of the most powerful but often underused, features is the LinkedIn recommendation. These short, public testimonials from colleagues, managers, or clients build your credibility and help you stand out.
But how do you actually ask for one? And what makes a great recommendation?
Let’s break it down.
Why LinkedIn Recommendations Matter
LinkedIn recommendations show social proof. Anyone can say they’re a great team player or a problem-solver. But when others say it for you? It hits differently.
A few strong recommendations can:
Strengthen your profile for job searches
Boost your credibility with clients or partners
Show off your soft skills and work ethic
Who Should You Ask?
Focus on people who’ve worked closely with you and can speak to your strengths. That might include:
How to Ask for a LinkedIn Recommendation (Without Being Awkward)
Here’s a simple formula:
Be specific about what you’re asking.
Remind them of your shared work history.
Suggest key skills or achievements they could highlight.
Offer to return the favor.
Example Message (Template):
Hi [Name],
I really enjoyed working with you on [Project or Role], and I’m reaching out to ask if you’d feel comfortable writing a short LinkedIn recommendation about our time together.
If you’re open to it, it would be great if you could mention [specific achievement or quality], as it aligns with the kind of roles I’m currently targeting.
Happy to write one for you as well, just let me know! Thanks either way.
Keep it short, polite, and clear. No pressure.
5 Best LinkedIn Recommendation Examples
Need some inspiration? Here are five recommendation styles tailored to different roles and tones.
1. Manager for Team Member
I had the pleasure of managing Sarah during her time as a Marketing Associate at [Company]. She consistently impressed me with her creativity, initiative, and ability to execute campaigns with minimal oversight. Her work on our email automation project increased engagement by 40%, and she always brought a calm, can-do attitude to every challenge. I’d gladly work with her again.
2. Peer-to-Peer
Working alongside James on the product team was a great experience. He’s one of the most dependable and solutions-oriented people I’ve met. Whether we were debugging a sprint issue or brainstorming new UX flows, James brought clarity, focus, and great energy to the table. He made the team stronger every day.
3. Client for Freelancer
We hired Maria to revamp our brand identity and website, and she delivered beyond expectations. Her eye for design and her ability to translate our vision into something modern and compelling were spot on. She was responsive, professional, and a pleasure to work with. Highly recommend her for any creative project.
4. Junior Employee for Mentor
I was lucky to have Priya as a mentor during my first year in corporate law. She not only helped me understand complex cases but also taught me how to approach challenges with strategic thinking and confidence. Her guidance played a big part in my growth. Any team would be lucky to have her.
5. Professor for Student
Alex stood out in my Advanced Programming class, not just for technical skills, but for collaboration and leadership. He consistently helped peers troubleshoot problems and even led a student coding group that produced an impressive final project. I have no doubt he’ll excel in any tech role he pursues.
Final Tips
Don’t send mass requests. Customize each message.
Give before you ask. Offer to write a recommendation first.
Be gracious. Whether they write it or not, thank them for their time.
Stay active. Keep your profile updated and continue networking.
A few strong recommendations can do more than a whole paragraph of self-promotion. Ask with confidence, make it easy for them, and keep it professional. The results are worth it.
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