“Would You Write Me a LinkedIn Recommendation Please?”

The Relevance of LinkedIn Recommendations in Today’s Job Market

In the professional landscape, the practice of requesting LinkedIn recommendations has become commonplace. Many individuals, including former students of mine, frequently ask, “Would you write me a recommendation, please?” This trend stems from the belief that such endorsements can significantly enhance one’s professional profile. This perception, however, warrants a critical examination.

Having been a hiring manager for several years, and having engaged in numerous discussions with other hiring and HR professionals, I can affirmatively state that LinkedIn recommendations are not as influential as many believe. Here are some reasons why:

1. Selective Endorsements: Individuals typically request recommendations from those who they believe will provide positive feedback. Consequently, these endorsements often lack critical insights and may not present an accurate reflection of a candidate’s capabilities and performance.
2. Organizational Reference Checks: Companies have their own reference-checking protocols. These processes, whether they are effective or not, are designed to verify a candidate’s qualifications and suitability for a role. Organizations prefer to contact references directly, ensuring they receive candid and relevant information, rather than relying on a LinkedIn recommendation written by someone they do not know.
3. Misalignment with Job Requirements: LinkedIn recommendations may not always address the specific skills and attributes that hiring managers are looking for. These endorsements often focus on general praise, which may not align with the qualifications and competencies required for a particular position.

Given these considerations, placing undue pressure on your contacts to write a recommendation may not be the best strategy. Instead, I advise maintaining strong, genuine connections within your network. When the time comes, ask your contacts if they would feel comfortable being a reference for you when approached by potential employers. This approach is more respectful of their time and positions you in a more professional and credible light.

By fostering authentic relationships and ensuring your references are willing and prepared to speak on your behalf, you demonstrate a higher level of professionalism and integrity. Your network will also appreciate being asked to provide support in a comfortable and authentic way.

In conclusion, while LinkedIn recommendations may appear to enhance your profile, their actual impact on hiring decisions is limited. Focusing on building meaningful professional relationships and securing genuine references is a more effective and professional strategy.