How to Write a LinkedIn Recommendation Request for 2025

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So, you want to get some good LinkedIn recommendations, huh? It’s not just about hitting a button and hoping for the best. Getting a solid recommendation can really help your professional profile stand out, especially as we head into 2025. It shows that other people think you’re good at what you do, and that’s a big deal. This guide will walk you through how to ask for those recommendations effectively, making sure you get something useful that helps you reach your career goals.

Key Takeaways

• Always be clear about why you’re asking for a recommendation.
• Make it easy for the person to write it by giving them ideas.
• Pick people who actually know your work well.
• Follow up politely if you don’t hear back right away.
• Remember to say thank you when you get the recommendation.

Understanding the Purpose of a LinkedIn Recommendation

Defining the Value of Endorsements

LinkedIn endorsements are like a quick thumbs-up for specific skills. They’re easy to give and receive, but they don’t carry the same weight as a full recommendation. Think of them as a way to show you have a certain skill, but not necessarily how well you’ve applied it. A strong recommendation provides context and examples, while endorsements are more about breadth of skills.

• Endorsements increase your profile’s visibility in searches.
• They act as social proof that others recognize your skills.
• They’re a low-effort way to support your connections.

Distinguishing Recommendations from Skills

Recommendations are detailed testimonials, while skills are just listed keywords. A recommendation tells a story about your abilities and work ethic. Skills are simply a list of things you claim to be good at. Recommendations add credibility to the skills you list. It’s like the difference between saying you’re a good cook and having someone rave about your amazing lasagna.

• Recommendations offer specific examples of your work.
• Skills are often self-assessed and lack external validation.
• Recommendations build trust, while skills primarily indicate areas of knowledge.

Leveraging Recommendations for Career Growth

Recommendations can significantly boost your career prospects. They provide social proof of your abilities, making you more attractive to potential employers and collaborators. Think of them as mini-references right on your profile. You can also use them to highlight specific achievements or qualities you want to emphasize. It’s a good idea to build credibility by requesting recommendations from people who can speak to your strengths in those areas. RoboApply can help you identify the best connections to ask for recommendations based on your career goals.

• Recommendations enhance your professional reputation.
• They can open doors to new opportunities.
• They provide valuable insights for potential employers.

Recommendations are a powerful tool for showcasing your abilities and building trust with potential employers. They offer a more in-depth and credible assessment of your skills than simple endorsements, making your profile stand out from the crowd.

Identifying the Right People to Ask

Choosing who to ask for a LinkedIn recommendation is super important. You want people who can actually speak to your skills and work ethic. Don’t just go for the big names; think about who really knows you and your work.

Considering Professional Relationships

Think about your past jobs and projects. Who did you work closely with? These are the people who can give the most detailed and believable recommendations. It’s better to get a strong recommendation from a colleague than a generic one from a CEO who barely knows you. For example, if you worked on a project with Sarah in marketing, and you really killed it, she’s a great person to ask. She can talk about your specific contributions and how you helped the team. RoboApply can help you keep track of these relationships and projects, making it easier to remember who to reach out to.

Prioritizing Impactful Connections

Not all connections are created equal. A recommendation from someone well-respected in your field carries more weight. Think about people who have influence or a strong reputation. It could be a former manager, a senior colleague, or even a client. The key is that their opinion matters. If you helped a client, John, increase their sales by 20%, a recommendation from him would be gold. It shows you can deliver results.

Assessing Recipient Availability

Before you ask someone for a recommendation, consider their current situation. Are they super busy? Are they likely to respond? It’s better to ask someone who has the time and willingness to write a thoughtful recommendation. You can usually get a sense of this by looking at their LinkedIn activity or just reaching out for a quick chat first. Don’t take it personally if someone says they’re too busy; just move on to the next person on your list. RoboApply can help you manage your outreach and track who you’ve contacted, so you don’t accidentally ask the same person twice.

Asking for a recommendation is like asking for a favor. Be mindful of the other person’s time and be respectful if they can’t do it. A polite and understanding approach goes a long way.

Crafting a Compelling Subject Line

Grabbing Attention Effectively

The subject line is your first, and sometimes only, chance to make a good impression. It needs to be attention-grabbing without being clickbait. Think of it as a mini-advertisement for your request. If it’s boring or vague, it’ll get lost in the shuffle. A good subject line can significantly increase the chances of your request being opened and acted upon. Consider using personalization, posing a question, or hinting at the value of their recommendation. For example, instead of a generic "Recommendation Request," try "[Your Name] – Recommendation Request for [Specific Skill/Project]." RoboApply can help you track which subject lines perform best, so you can refine your approach over time.

Indicating Clear Intent

Your subject line should immediately tell the recipient what the email is about. Ambiguity is the enemy here. People are busy, and they need to know at a glance what you’re asking for. Avoid being overly cryptic or cute. A clear and direct subject line respects their time and increases the likelihood of a positive response. For instance, "Recommendation Request – [Project Name] Collaboration" is much better than "Catching Up!" Here are a few options:

• "Recommendation Request: [Your Role] at [Company]"
• "[Mutual Connection] Suggested I Reach Out for a Recommendation"
• "Request: Recommendation for [Specific Skill]"

Avoiding Generic Phrases

Generic subject lines are a death sentence for your recommendation request. Phrases like "Recommendation Request" or "Please Read" are easily ignored. They lack personalization and don’t convey the value of writing a recommendation. Instead, opt for something more specific and engaging. Think about what makes your request unique and highlight that in the subject line. For example, instead of "Recommendation Request," try "Recommendation Request – [Shared Project] at [Company]" or "Seeking Your Insight on [Specific Skill]." You can find more ideas in this guide with email subject line examples.

A well-crafted subject line is the key to getting your recommendation request noticed. It’s your first opportunity to show the recipient that you value their time and expertise. Make it count by being clear, specific, and engaging.

Here are some phrases to avoid:

1. "Recommendation Request"
2. "Please Read"
3. "Important!"
4. "A Favor to Ask"

Structuring Your Recommendation Request

It’s not enough to just ask; you need to structure your request so it’s clear, easy to understand, and motivates the person to write a great recommendation. A well-structured request increases your chances of getting a thoughtful and effective endorsement. RoboApply can help you keep track of your requests and manage your professional network.

Opening with a Clear Purpose

Start your request by immediately stating why you’re reaching out. Don’t beat around the bush. Make it clear you’re asking for a LinkedIn recommendation. This sets the stage and lets the person know exactly what you need from them.

Example: "I hope this message finds you well. I’m reaching out because I’m hoping you might be willing to write a recommendation for me on LinkedIn."

Reminding Them of Your Collaboration

Help the person remember the context of your work together. Briefly mention the project, role, or time period you collaborated. This jogs their memory and provides a foundation for their recommendation. It’s easy for people to forget details, so a little reminder goes a long way. You can use resume examples to help you remember the details of your past collaborations.

Example: "I’m hoping you can recall our time working together on the ‘Project Phoenix’ initiative back in 2023. Your insights were invaluable."

Specifying the Desired Focus

Guide the person by suggesting specific areas or skills you’d like them to highlight. This doesn’t mean dictating what they should write, but rather providing helpful direction. Think about what aspects of your work you want to emphasize and communicate that in your request. This is especially useful if you’re targeting a specific type of job or industry. You can also look at business analyst resume examples to see what skills are in demand.

Example:

• "If possible, I’d appreciate it if you could focus on my leadership skills during that project."
• "It would be great if you could mention my ability to manage complex projects."
• "Highlighting my communication skills would be fantastic."

By providing a clear structure, you make it easier for the person to write a compelling recommendation. This increases the likelihood of getting a positive and impactful endorsement. Remember to be polite and respectful throughout the request process. You can also use these tips when writing LinkedIn recommendations for others.

Providing Specific Examples and Context

When you ask someone for a recommendation, don’t just leave them hanging. Give them something to work with! The more specific you are, the better the recommendation will be. Think of it as helping them help you.

Highlighting Key Achievements

Instead of saying, "Sarah was a great team member," try something like, "Sarah played a key role in launching our new marketing campaign, which resulted in a 30% increase in leads." Specifics make a huge difference. Think about the projects where you really shined and give your recommender the details. RoboApply can help you track these achievements over time, so you don’t forget the important details when you need them.

Recalling Shared Projects

Remind the person about the projects you worked on together. This jogs their memory and helps them write a more authentic recommendation. For example, "I really valued your insights during the Alpha project. Your expertise in data analysis was instrumental in identifying key trends." It’s way more effective than a generic request. Think about the specific contributions each of you made.

Suggesting Areas for Emphasis

Don’t be afraid to suggest what you’d like them to focus on. If you’re trying to highlight your leadership skills, tell them! For instance, you could say, "If you feel it’s appropriate, I’d appreciate it if you could mention my ability to lead cross-functional teams effectively." This gives them direction and ensures the recommendation aligns with your career goals. It’s about guiding them to write the most impactful recommendation possible. Remember to tailor your cover letter examples to match the skills highlighted in your recommendations.

Providing context is like giving someone the ingredients and the recipe instead of just asking them to bake a cake. The more information you provide, the better the final product will be.

Here’s a quick example of how to provide context:

By providing this level of detail, you make it much easier for the person to write a compelling and effective recommendation. Think about how you can use resume examples to inspire your own achievements and showcase them effectively in your recommendation requests. Also, consider how your leadership skills, as highlighted in your recommendations, can be further emphasized in your executive resume examples.

Making the Request Easy to Fulfill

Offering Pre-Written Snippets

Okay, so you want a recommendation, but you also want to make it super easy for the person writing it? Smart move. Providing a few pre-written sentences or bullet points can really help jumpstart their writing process. Think of it as giving them a template. It’s not about writing the whole thing for them, but more about guiding them in the right direction. For example, if you worked on a project together, you could provide a snippet like, "During the Alpha Project, [Your Name] consistently exceeded expectations by [Specific Achievement]." This gives them a concrete starting point. RoboApply can help you keep track of these snippets for different recommenders, so you can tailor them to each person’s experience with you.

Suggesting Key Qualities to Mention

Sometimes, people draw a blank. They know you’re great, but they struggle to articulate why. Help them out by suggesting a few key qualities or skills you’d like them to highlight. Don’t be afraid to be specific. Instead of saying, "Mention I’m a hard worker," try, "Could you mention my problem-solving skills during the Beta Project?" This gives them a focus. Maybe you want them to talk about your leadership, your technical skills, or your ability to work under pressure. Whatever it is, make it clear. This is especially useful if you’re targeting a specific type of job or role. Remember to add a LinkedIn profile to your resume to showcase these qualities.

Providing a Clear Call to Action

Don’t leave them guessing about what you want them to do. Make your call to action crystal clear. Tell them exactly what you need and by when. A simple, "Would you be willing to write a brief recommendation highlighting my contributions to the Gamma Team by July 15th?" works wonders. Also, make it easy for them to actually write the recommendation. Include a direct link to the recommendation request page on LinkedIn. The easier you make it, the more likely they are to actually do it. And don’t forget to request a LinkedIn recommendation through the platform’s official channels for a streamlined process.

Making it easy for someone to write a recommendation for you isn’t just about convenience; it’s about respect for their time. By providing helpful prompts and clear instructions, you’re showing that you value their input and are committed to making the process as smooth as possible for them.

Following Up Professionally

Following up is key. It shows you’re serious and respectful of the other person’s time. Don’t be a pest, but don’t be silent either. It’s a balancing act.

Timing Your Reminders Appropriately

Don’t send a follow-up the next day. Give people time. A week or two is usually a good starting point. If you know they’re busy, maybe wait a bit longer. RoboApply can help you track when you sent the initial request, so you don’t lose track.

• Wait at least one week before your first follow-up.
• Consider the recipient’s schedule and workload.
• Use a calendar or task management system to remind yourself.

Maintaining a Courteous Tone

Always be polite. Remember, they’re doing you a favor. A simple "I understand you’re busy, but I wanted to gently check in" goes a long way. Avoid sounding demanding or entitled.

Keep your tone light and appreciative. A little bit of gratitude can make a big difference. It’s about building relationships, not just getting a recommendation.

• Use phrases like "I hope this finds you well" or "No worries if you haven’t had a chance."
• Avoid using all caps or exclamation points.
• Proofread your message for any typos or grammatical errors.

Expressing Continued Gratitude

Even if they haven’t written the recommendation yet, thank them for considering it. Let them know you appreciate their time and effort. If they do write it, thank them again, profusely. A small thank-you note or a follow-up email can be a nice touch.

• Send a thank-you note after they agree to write the recommendation.
• Express your gratitude again after they submit it.
• Consider sending a small gift or token of appreciation, if appropriate.

Utilizing LinkedIn’s Recommendation Feature

Navigating the Platform’s Tools

LinkedIn provides straightforward tools for both requesting and giving recommendations. It’s all pretty intuitive once you find the right spot. To request a recommendation, go to the profile of the person you want to ask. Look for the "More" button (usually indicated by three dots) near their profile picture. Click it, and you should see an option like "Request a recommendation." From there, LinkedIn walks you through the process, asking about your relationship and the position you held at the time. It’s not rocket science, but knowing where to click saves time. You can also use resume skills to improve your profile.

Sending Requests Directly

Instead of just hoping someone will write you a recommendation, take the initiative and send a direct request. Personalize each request; don’t just use the default message. Mention a specific project or experience you shared with the person. This shows you value their input and aren’t just looking for a generic endorsement. For example:

Hi [Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I’m reaching out because I’m updating my LinkedIn profile and would really appreciate it if you could write a recommendation based on our work together on the [Project Name] project. Your insights on my [Specific Skill] during that time would be incredibly valuable. Let me know if there’s anything I can do for you in return!
Thanks,

[Your Name]

Managing Received Recommendations

Once you start getting recommendations, you’ll want to manage them. LinkedIn lets you choose which recommendations to display on your profile. Not all recommendations are created equal; some might be more relevant or impactful than others. Go to the "Recommendations" section of your profile and click the pencil icon to edit the visibility of each one. You can hide recommendations that aren’t as strong or that don’t align with your current career goals. Also, remember to thank everyone who writes you a recommendation – a simple thank-you note goes a long way. You can also use LinkedIn recommendations to improve your profile. RoboApply can help you keep track of your requests and responses, ensuring no one is overlooked.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Overlooking Personalization

It’s easy to fall into the trap of sending generic recommendation requests. However, personalization is key to getting a thoughtful and effective recommendation. A generic request shows a lack of effort and can result in a lukewarm response. Always tailor your message to the specific person and your relationship with them. For example, instead of saying "Please write me a recommendation," try "I’d really appreciate it if you could highlight my leadership skills during the Acme project, as your insights would be incredibly valuable." Don’t forget to use personalized connection requests to build rapport before asking for a recommendation.

Making Demands, Not Requests

No one likes being told what to do, especially when it comes to writing a recommendation. Avoid phrasing your request as a demand. Instead, frame it as a favor. For instance, instead of saying "I need this by Friday," try "Would you be able to provide a recommendation sometime in the next week or so? No rush, but I’d really appreciate it." Remember, people are more likely to help if they feel appreciated and respected. It’s also important to ensure your LinkedIn profile headline is up-to-date, so recommenders have accurate information.

Forgetting to Express Thanks

Gratitude goes a long way. Always thank the person who wrote you a recommendation, even if it wasn’t exactly what you were hoping for. A simple thank-you note or email shows that you value their time and effort. Consider sending a small gift or writing a recommendation for them in return. This fosters a positive professional relationship and encourages them to help you in the future. You can even use a LinkedIn Resume Builder to help them update their own profile as a thank you.

Leveraging Recommendations for Job Applications

Integrating Recommendations into Your Profile

Your LinkedIn profile is often the first thing a potential employer sees. Make sure your recommendations are prominently displayed and easy to find. Think of them as testimonials that back up your claims about your skills and experience. It’s not enough to just have them; you need to strategically integrate them. For example, if you’re applying for a project management role, ensure that recommendations highlighting your project management skills are visible. You can reorder the recommendations on your profile to prioritize the most relevant ones for your job search. RoboApply can help you identify the most impactful recommendations to showcase based on the job descriptions you’re targeting.

• Strategically order recommendations.
• Highlight relevant skills.
• Keep your profile updated.

Showcasing Relevant Endorsements

Not all recommendations are created equal. Some will be more relevant to the jobs you’re applying for than others. Focus on showcasing endorsements that directly align with the skills and experience required for the roles you want. If a recommendation praises your leadership abilities, and you’re applying for a leadership position, make sure that recommendation is front and center. Don’t bury it among less relevant endorsements. Think about it like this: you’re curating a portfolio of endorsements that demonstrate your suitability for specific roles. LinkedIn recommendation generators can help you get more endorsements.

• Prioritize endorsements based on job requirements.
• Request recommendations targeting specific skills.
• Actively manage the visibility of endorsements.

Using Recommendations in Cover Letters

While cover letters might seem old-fashioned, they still offer a chance to make a personal connection with the hiring manager. You can subtly weave snippets from your LinkedIn recommendations into your cover letter to add credibility to your claims. For example, if a recommender said you’re an exceptional problem-solver, you could mention that in your cover letter and attribute it to feedback from colleagues. This adds a layer of social proof to your application. Remember to keep it concise and relevant. Cover letters are still important in 2025.

Using recommendations in your cover letter is a great way to add credibility to your claims. It shows that others vouch for your skills and experience, making your application more compelling.

• Incorporate quotes from recommendations.
• Reference the source of the recommendation.
• Keep it brief and relevant to the job description. Showcase your strengths to potential employers.

Maintaining a Strong Professional Network

Reciprocating Recommendation Requests

It’s not just about getting recommendations; it’s about giving them too. Think of it as professional karma. When someone asks you for a recommendation, take the time to write a thoughtful one. It strengthens your connection and shows you value their work. Plus, it makes them more likely to return the favor when you need it. It’s a two-way street, and a great way to build goodwill in your network.

Engaging with Your Connections

Don’t just collect connections on LinkedIn; engage with them. Like their posts, comment on their articles, and share their updates. It keeps you top of mind and shows you’re interested in what they’re doing. A simple "congrats on the new role!" or a thoughtful comment on a project can go a long way. It’s about building real relationships, not just accumulating numbers. Tools like RoboApply for career advancement can help you stay organized and manage your interactions, ensuring you don’t miss important updates from your network.

Building Long-Term Relationships

LinkedIn isn’t just for job hunting; it’s for building lasting professional relationships. Think beyond the immediate need and focus on creating genuine connections. Attend industry events (even virtual ones), join relevant groups, and participate in discussions. These interactions can lead to unexpected opportunities and collaborations down the road. Nurturing these relationships over time is what truly makes your network strong. Remember that cover letters remain crucial for making a strong first impression and showcasing your personality, which can help in building these relationships.

Building a strong professional network is an ongoing process. It requires consistent effort and a genuine interest in connecting with others. It’s not about what you can get, but what you can give and build together.

Keeping up with your professional connections is super important for your career. It helps you find new chances and learn from others. Want to make your job search easier? Check out how RoboApply can help you land your dream job faster!

Wrapping Things Up

So, there you have it. Getting a good LinkedIn recommendation isn’t rocket science, but it does take a little thought. Just be clear about what you need, make it easy for the person to write, and always say thanks. Do that, and you’ll be building up a strong profile in no time. It’s all about making those connections work for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to ask someone for a LinkedIn recommendation?

It’s a good idea to ask for a recommendation when your work together is still fresh in their mind. This makes it easier for them to remember details and write a strong recommendation.

Should I update my LinkedIn profile before asking for recommendations?

Make sure your profile is all filled out and looks good. This helps the person writing your recommendation see what you’re all about and what skills you want to show off.

Is it okay to say no if someone asks me for a recommendation?

If someone asks you for a recommendation, and you can honestly give a good one, it’s a nice thing to do. It helps build good relationships and they might recommend you back someday.

Who should I ask for a recommendation?

Try to ask people who have seen your work up close and can talk about your skills and how you helped out. This could be a boss, a team leader, or even a client.

Can I ask multiple people for recommendations at the same time?

It’s best to ask one person at a time. If you ask a bunch of people at once, it might seem like you’re not really thinking about who is best to recommend you.

What if someone doesn’t respond to my recommendation request?

Yes, you can gently remind them after about a week if you haven’t heard back. Just be polite and understanding, as people are busy.

Can I review a recommendation before it’s published on my profile?

Yes, you can. LinkedIn lets you look at the recommendation before it goes live on your profile. This way, you can make sure it sounds good and accurately shows your skills.

How should I thank someone for writing me a recommendation?

After they write the recommendation, send them a quick thank you message. It shows you appreciate their time and effort.