How to: Ask for a LinkedIn Recommendation

Your network is a great resource. A great way to get extra value from your network of clients or customers is to ask them for a recommendation or testimonial. If they were pleased with the service you offered them don’t be afraid of asking them for a recommendation or testimonial (and permission to use it). You can then use on your blog/website and other marketing materials or social media for some marketing and self-promotion.

Ask for a Recommendation…

LinkedIn Recommendations are an easy way to ask for a recommendation and look good because they are directly linked to your LinkedIn Profile. A recommendation will then mean that you can demonstrate to clients, contacts and potential employers that you are recommended and that others have enjoyed working with you.

You don’t need to be afraid to ask for a LinkedIn Recommendation (if you don’t ask, you don’t get). However, you do need to give the person that you are asking context as to your request.

You might want to ask for a LinkedIn Recommendation at the end of a large project and just let them know that you are collecting feedback and would appreciate a recommendation. However, this can be hard to stay on top of, so we would recommend that you have key check-in and feedback points. This might be in line with your Appraisal Process or alternatively, in your own Quarterly Profile Check-ins.

Another appropriate time to request recommendations might be when you are changing jobs/roles. Whenever you decide to do it, provide an explanation/context to help them understand the request and put together a recommendation.

As well as providing context when you are asking for the recommendation you can also make suggestions about what they might like to include and/or offer to write a recommendation in return if you haven’t previously done so.