Requesting LinkedIn Recommendations necessitates a tactful and professional strategy. The key to securing favorable and prompt responses lies in simplifying the process for your potential recommender.
To begin, it’s crucial to select the right individual to approach. Opt for individuals who have closely collaborated with you and can genuinely vouch for your capabilities, work ethic, and achievements. Suitable candidates may include former managers, senior colleagues with whom you’ve worked closely, or clients for whom you’ve delivered substantial results. Avoid requesting recommendations from those unfamiliar with your work.
Utilizing LinkedIn’s “Request a Recommendation” feature is advisable, as it streamlines the procedure. You can access this feature by visiting the profile of the person you wish to approach, clicking the “More” option in their introduction card, and selecting “Request a Recommendation.”
Personalizing the message accompanying your request is paramount. Refrain from sending a generic invitation. Your personalized message should commence with a courteous opening and briefly remind the recipient of the context of your professional relationship, such as, “I trust this message finds you well. I truly appreciated our collaboration on the XYZ project at ABC Company.”
It’s essential to provide gentle guidance on areas you wish the recommender to focus on. Rather than dictating the content, aim to jog their memory, suggesting, for instance, “I would greatly appreciate it if you could highlight my contributions to the successful product launch,” or “Perhaps you could speak to my project management skills exhibited during that period.” This approach aids their focus and eases the task of recalling specific details.
Demonstrate consideration for their time and acknowledge their busy schedule in your request. Express gratitude for their willingness to consider your request.
If you receive no response within a week or two, it’s generally acceptable to send a courteous follow-up message as a gentle reminder.
Upon receiving the recommendation, LinkedIn allows you to review it before it appears on your profile, enabling you to request minor edits if required. Upon acceptance, extend a personal thank-you message to express your gratitude. Additionally, offer to reciprocate by writing a recommendation for them as a professional courtesy.
In essence, the key to requesting recommendations professionally is to approach the right individuals, send a thoughtful, personalized request, and maintain a gracious demeanor throughout the process.
Warm regards,
Sean