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Best LinkedIn Recommendation: Your Ultimate Guide to Standing Out and Getting Hired

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Writing a stellar LinkedIn recommendation isn’t just about being nice—it’s about being strategic. Whether you’re looking to strengthen professional relationships, boost your own visibility, or help colleagues advance their careers, mastering the art of LinkedIn recommendations can be a game-changer.

Think of recommendations as your professional cheerleaders. They’re powerful endorsements that can seriously impact career trajectories, open new doors, and even help land dream jobs. This guide is your roadmap to crafting and leveraging professional endorsements that actually get results.

Why Should I Write A LinkedIn Recommendation?

You might be wondering, “Do I really need to spend time on this?” Absolutely! A strong LinkedIn profile is more than just a digital resume—it’s a living testament to your professional impact. Recommendations add that crucial layer of social proof that can make all the difference.

The Undeniable Power of Social Proof

Professional recommendations are the digital equivalent of glowing references, providing objective proof of your competence and abilities. Here’s why they matter:

Enhanced Visibility: Profiles with recommendations receive 14 times more profile views than those without. This increased visibility directly translates to more opportunities for connection and career advancement.

Improved Hiring Chances: A comprehensive LinkedIn profile can boost your job interview chances by 71%. Strong recommendations contribute substantially to this completeness, signaling a well-rounded professional.

Recruiter Trust: A 2024 survey revealed that 70% of hiring managers trust LinkedIn recommendations more than traditional references. This means having quality recommendations positions you as a more desirable candidate.

Faster Hiring Process: Companies utilizing recommendations in their hiring processes report reducing time-to-hire by an average of 20%. A strong profile with authentic recommendations can streamline your job search.

Building Trust and Credibility

Recommendations act as powerful social proof, making your professional brand more trustworthy. They’re like 5-star reviews for your skills and work ethic, appearing more authentic than self-written descriptions.

In a competitive job market, simply listing skills is common. Recommendations make you unique. They provide third-party validation that you are as great as you claim, helping you stand out from the crowd.

How to Request a Recommendation For LinkedIn

Asking for a professional recommendation might feel awkward, but it’s a strategic career move. The key is approaching it thoughtfully and making it easy for your recommender.

Choosing Your Champions: Who to Ask and When

Focus on individuals who can genuinely vouch for your work and specific accomplishments. This includes:

  • Current or former managers
  • Senior colleagues
  • Clients you’ve worked with
  • Direct reports
  • Project collaborators

Strategic Timing Matters: The most opportune moments are:

  • Immediately after a successful project
  • During performance review cycles
  • When transitioning out of a role
  • After achieving a significant milestone

Timing your request when your contributions are fresh in people’s minds makes it easier for them to write something meaningful.

Crafting the Perfect Request

A personalized message significantly outperforms the generic “Ask to Be Recommended” button. Your request should be specific about what you’d like highlighted and include clear context.

Example Template: “Hi [Name], Hope you’re doing well! Remember when we worked together on [specific project] at [company]? Your guidance on [mention specific skill] was invaluable. I’m currently [job searching/seeking promotion], and your thoughts on my [relevant skills] would be great for my LinkedIn profile. Would you be willing to write a recommendation? I’d really appreciate it!”

Making It Easy and Reciprocal

To maximize your chances of receiving a strong recommendation:

  • Offer to write a draft for them to edit
  • Provide clear context about your relationship
  • Always offer to reciprocate
  • Be courteous about their time
  • Give them specific talking points

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Best LinkedIn Recommendations Examples You Should Note

Seeing great examples is the best way to understand what makes a powerful recommendation. Here are proven templates for various professional relationships.

Sample Recommendation for Colleagues

When recommending a colleague, highlight their collaborative spirit, specific skills, and positive impact on shared projects.

Example: “Working with [Name] has been fantastic. [Name] is a true team player, always bringing positive energy and creative solutions to every project. During our collaboration on [specific project], [Name] effortlessly managed multiple tasks and played a key role in our success. Their excellent communication and ability to collaborate make them an invaluable asset to any team. I wholeheartedly recommend [Name] to anyone looking for a professional who consistently delivers high-quality work.”

LinkedIn Recommendation Examples for Junior Colleagues

For junior colleagues, focus on their dedication, learning ability, work ethic, and potential for growth.

Example: “I had the privilege of mentoring [Name] during their first year at [Company], and I was consistently impressed by their dedication and ability to learn quickly. Despite being new to the field, [Name] demonstrated excellent time management skills and deep understanding of [specific area]. Their positive energy and ability to manage multiple tasks made a lasting impression. I have no doubt they will achieve great success in their future endeavors!”

LinkedIn Recommendation Examples for Managers

When recommending a manager, emphasize their leadership, mentorship, goal-setting abilities, and impact on team success.

Example: “I had the privilege of working under [Name]’s leadership for [X years], and I can confidently say they are one of the most inspiring leaders I’ve met. Their ability to handle complex projects while providing guidance to the team was truly impressive. [Name] consistently set realistic goals and fostered a supportive environment where everyone felt motivated to do their best work. Any organization would be lucky to have such a dedicated and effective leader!”

LinkedIn Recommendation Examples for Clients

When recommending a client, highlight their professionalism, clear communication, and collaborative nature.

Example: “Collaborating with [Name] on [specific project] has been an absolute pleasure. [Name] consistently demonstrated clear communication and a unique ability to understand project needs while providing insightful feedback. Their strategic direction and responsiveness were key to our successful outcomes. If you’re looking for a client who is a true partner, committed to excellence and mutual success, I wholeheartedly recommend [Name]!”

LinkedIn Recommendation Examples for Students

For students, emphasize their drive, academic performance, leadership abilities, and potential for career success.

Example: “Rarely do students come with as much drive and potential as [Name]. As their professor for business strategy classes, I was consistently impressed by their ability to connect theoretical concepts with real-world applications. [Name] showcased exceptional leadership in group projects, effortlessly managing diverse responsibilities. I’m confident [Name] will have a bright future and be an asset to any employer.”

Sample LinkedIn Recommendation for HR Professional

When recommending an HR professional, highlight their expertise in talent acquisition, employee relations, and impact on company culture.

Example: “Finding the right talent is never easy, but [Name] makes it look effortless. As an HR professional at [Company], they played a vital role in our hiring process, consistently identifying top talent and ensuring a seamless candidate experience. [Name]’s excellent interpersonal skills and ability to foster positive employee relations have made a significant impact on our team’s success. I wholeheartedly recommend [Name] to any company looking for a dedicated and skilled HR professional!”

LinkedIn Recommendation for Senior Professionals

For senior professionals, highlight their expertise, mentorship, strategic thinking, and ability to navigate complex challenges.

Example: “Working with [Name] was a fantastic experience. As a senior leader at [Company], they brought profound knowledge and expertise in [specific field]. I was particularly impressed by their ability to understand complex issues and provide strategic solutions. Beyond technical skills, [Name] possesses exceptional interpersonal abilities, fostering great relationships with clients and colleagues. Any organization would benefit immensely from their guidance.”

Recommendation Examples for Boss

When recommending your boss, focus on their leadership impact, guidance, and direct influence on your professional growth.

Example: “I couldn’t have asked for a better manager than [Name], who was my direct supervisor for [X years] at [Company]. Because of their coaching and training, I went from [specific challenge] to [specific achievement]. [Name] also encouraged diverse perspectives, which strengthened our team connections. They are a visionary, results-driven, and truly inspiring leader. If you ever have the chance to work for [Name], I’d wholeheartedly recommend taking it.”

LinkedIn Recommendation Sample for Software Developer

For developers, combine technical skills with soft skills like problem-solving, innovation, and teamwork.

Example: “[Name] is one of the most talented developers I’ve worked with. Their deep understanding of [specific technologies] and ability to develop creative solutions to complex problems made a significant impact on our [project/team success]. [Name] consistently delivered high-quality work while maintaining excellent client relationships. Beyond technical expertise, they are a great team player with excellent communication skills. Any tech team would be fortunate to have them!”

Creative Recommendation Template

This flexible framework works for unique situations while maintaining professionalism.

Template: “[Compelling opening phrase] is what comes to mind when I think about [Name]. I’ve had the pleasure of knowing [Name] for [length of time], during which [description of working relationship]. Above all, I was impressed with [Name]’s ability to [standout quality]. And, of course, their [personality trait]. [Name] would be a true asset for any positions requiring [1-2 key skills] and comes with my heartfelt endorsement.”

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How To Say Thank You For LinkedIn Recommendation?

Someone took time to write you a great recommendation—that’s awesome! A genuine thank you is crucial for nurturing your professional network.

Crafting Your Thank You Message

Send your appreciation quickly after receiving the recommendation. Avoid generic responses; instead, highlight a specific aspect that resonated with you.

Example Template: “Hi [First Name], I’m incredibly grateful for the recommendation you wrote! Your kind words about my [specific skill/project mentioned] truly mean so much to me. It really highlighted [specific detail you liked]. If there’s ever anything I can do for you in return, don’t hesitate to ask. Thanks again!”

Keeping the Connection Alive

Use your thank you message as an opportunity to nurture your professional relationship. Make it forward-looking by expressing anticipation for future interactions or offering value in return.

This approach transforms a simple thank you into a meaningful relationship-building touchpoint, keeping you top-of-mind for future opportunities.

Essential LinkedIn Recommendation Tips You Shouldn’t Ignore

Writing effective recommendations isn’t just about being nice—it’s about being strategic. Here are proven tips to make your recommendations shine:

Start With a Hook

Capture attention immediately with a strong opening that includes the person’s role and a key quality.

Example: “[Name] is an outstanding [job title] who consistently delivers exceptional results.”

Give Details and Context

Provide context by explaining your professional relationship, including duration and capacity. This establishes credibility for your recommendation.

Example: “I had the pleasure of working alongside [Name] for three years at [Company], where we collaborated closely on [specific team/project].”

Use Vivid Examples

Move beyond generic praise by showing skills in action. Share specific successes and quantify achievements whenever possible.

Example: “During the [Project Name] initiative, [Name]’s innovative approach resulted in a 20% increase in lead conversion for our team.”

Emphasize Growth

Describe how the person has evolved professionally, adapted to new responsibilities, or grown within the organization.

Example: “[Name] has grown as quickly as our business, consistently taking on new responsibilities and mastering complex skills.”

Include a Clear Call to Action

Conclude with a strong recommendation that guides the reader on next steps.

Example: “[Name] would be an excellent addition to any team, and I wholeheartedly recommend them.”

Highlight Team Impact

Explain how their contributions positively affected the team or company culture.

Example: “[Name]’s collaborative spirit was critical to our team’s success, directly contributing to a 15% improvement in team efficiency.”

Add a Personal Touch

Include a brief, positive personal trait that reveals their personality and work style.

Example: “Beyond their professional brilliance, [Name]’s positive energy made them a joy to work with.”

Keep It Concise and Clear

Aim for 50-200 words, avoiding jargon and using strong, active language. Busy professionals appreciate brevity and clarity.

5 Step Formula to Write A Great LinkedIn Recommendation

Want a foolproof way to write killer recommendations every time? This formula breaks it down into actionable steps.

Start With Relationship Duration

Begin by clearly stating your professional relationship and timeframe.

Example: “I’ve had the pleasure of working closely with [Name] for the past [X years] at [Company].”

Explain The Context

Briefly describe how you collaborated, mentioning key projects or shared responsibilities.

Example: “During our time together, [Name] led our team on the critical [Project Name] initiative, where I served as [your role].”

Emphasize Professional Skills

Highlight 1-2 core traits that set them apart, backing claims with specific examples or achievements.

Example: “[Name]’s analytical skills were remarkable. Their ability to interpret complex data led directly to a 15% increase in our quarterly pipeline.”

Add Personal Information

Include a brief positive trait that reveals their personality and work style.

Example: “Beyond impressive skills, [Name]’s positive attitude and ability to motivate the team made every day enjoyable.”

Include a Call to Action

Conclude with a clear, strong recommendation statement.

Example: “I wholeheartedly recommend [Name] for any leadership role; they would be an invaluable asset to any organization.”

LinkedIn Endorsements And Recommendations: Key Differences

Understanding the distinction between endorsements and recommendations helps you leverage both effectively.

Endorsements

  • Process: One-click skill validation
  • Effort: Minimal time investment
  • Impact: Good for SEO and broad skill validation
  • Benefit: Profiles with skill endorsements receive 17 times more recruiter views

Recommendations

  • Process: Written testimonial requiring thoughtful composition
  • Effort: Significant time and consideration
  • Impact: Deep credibility with specific examples
  • Benefit: More influential in hiring decisions due to detailed social proof

Both are valuable, but recommendations provide deeper, more authentic credibility. Think of endorsements as quick “likes” and recommendations as detailed, glowing reviews.

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LinkedIn Recommendation Examples For Additional Scenarios

Beyond common scenarios, here are specific examples for unique professional relationships.

For Direct Reports

When recommending someone you managed, focus on their impact, growth, and leadership potential.

Example: “I had the pleasure of managing [Name] for [X years] at [Company], and I can confidently say they are an invaluable asset. [Name] has a unique ability to handle multiple tasks while maintaining high-quality work. Their strong management skills and ability to consistently exceed expectations made a huge difference in our team’s success. I highly recommend [Name] to any company looking for someone with outstanding dedication and strategic thinking!”

For Freelancers/Consultants

Highlight work quality, reliability, creative solutions, and business impact.

Example: “Working with [Name] as our freelance [specialty] has been incredible. [Name] consistently delivered high-quality work while offering creative solutions that significantly improved our strategy. Their excellent communication and deep industry understanding made collaboration smooth and efficient. If you’re looking for someone reliable, innovative, and dedicated to client satisfaction, I wholeheartedly recommend [Name]!”

For Mentors

Emphasize guidance, insights, professional development impact, and supportive environment.

Example: “Few people have had such a lasting impression on my professional development as [Name]. As my mentor, they provided invaluable guidance that helped me navigate challenging situations and grow significantly in my career. Their deep understanding of [industry/field] and ability to explain complex concepts made a huge difference in my learning process. I highly recommend [Name] to anyone seeking guidance in their career journey.”

Benefits Of LinkedIn Recommendations

Let’s recap why getting and giving professional recommendations is a total win-win for your career:

  1. Boosts Credibility: Acts as powerful social proof, making your professional brand more trustworthy
  2. Enhances Visibility: Profiles with recommendations get significantly more views (14x increase)
  3. Aids Career Progression: Helps you stand out to recruiters and signals readiness for new roles
  4. Validates Skills: Provides third-party validation that recruiters highly value
  5. Strengthens Network: Fosters stronger professional relationships and goodwill
  6. Supports Professional Growth: Builds trust with colleagues and industry connections
  7. Offers Competitive Edge: Differentiates you in a crowded market
  8. Provides SEO Benefits: Keywords in recommendations boost profile visibility in search results

Why You Should Ask And Give LinkedIn Recommendations

It’s clear that recommendations are career game-changers. But it’s not a one-way street—both asking for and giving them creates tremendous value.

Asking for Recommendations

Your LinkedIn profile shows what you say about yourself, but recommendations show what others say—which carries significantly more weight with recruiters and potential connections. These testimonials serve as powerful tools to open doors for new opportunities, promotions, or business prospects.

Giving Recommendations

Writing thoughtful recommendations is equally valuable. It’s a powerful way to show appreciation and reinforce professional connections, often leading to reciprocation. When you write a quality recommendation, you showcase your own skills like communication, talent recognition, and leadership—all highly valued attributes.

Recommendations function as networking currency. Giving one is an investment that can yield future returns through reciprocal recommendations, referrals, or enhanced goodwill within your professional sphere.

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FAQs

How many LinkedIn recommendations should I aim for?

Quality over quantity is key. Aim for 1-2 recommendations for every 50 connections, ideally from a variety of people including supervisors, colleagues, clients, and direct reports. Focus on impactful, well-written testimonials rather than collecting as many as possible.

Is it okay to ask for multiple recommendations at once?

It's best to space out your requests over time. When all recommendations have the same date stamp, they can appear less natural to recruiters and hiring managers. A gradual accumulation presents a more authentic professional narrative.

How do LinkedIn recommendations impact my profile's SEO?

Significantly! Keywords in recommendations receive emphasis in search results, potentially doubling the ranking power of keywords in your profile. This enhanced visibility helps ensure your profile is discovered by relevant recruiters and opportunities.

What if I receive a recommendation I don't like?

You can choose whether to display any recommendation on your profile. If there are errors or the recommendation isn't specific enough, you can politely ask the writer for changes, addressing specific issues rather than requesting a complete rewrite.

What's the ideal length for a LinkedIn recommendation?

Keep recommendations under 200 words, with the most effective ones being 50-100 words. Short, impactful paragraphs maximize readability for both quick scanners and detailed readers.

What makes a bad LinkedIn recommendation?

Poor recommendations typically feature generic praise, lack specific examples, or come from people who don't clearly understand your professional capabilities. Recommendations without context about your relationship or that are outdated also diminish impact.

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Conclusion

LinkedIn recommendations are far more than nice-to-haves—they’re powerful tools to amplify your professional presence, boost credibility, and open doors to new opportunities. Whether you’re asking for one, crafting one, or expressing gratitude, remember to keep it genuine, specific, and focused on real impact.

 

Start leveraging these powerful endorsements today. Your network and your career will thank you for it. The key is taking action: identify who you can ask for recommendations, who you can recommend, and begin building this valuable form of social proof that can transform your professional trajectory.

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