[FAQ]

Hi everyone,

I’m trying to build up the Recommendations section of my LinkedIn profile, but I have to admit, I feel a bit awkward about asking former managers or senior colleagues for one. I’m not sure what the best way to approach them is.

What’s the proper etiquette and process for requesting a recommendation on LinkedIn in 2025? I’m especially looking for advice on what to include in the request message to make it easy for them to say yes and to hopefully get a high-quality, specific recommendation in return.

Any tips to make the process less awkward would be great. Thanks!

[Jeff Bullas]

Asking for a LinkedIn Recommendation requires a professional and considerate approach. The key to getting a positive and timely response is to make the process as easy as possible for the person you are asking.

First, you should choose the right person to ask. The best recommendations come from people who have worked closely with you and can genuinely speak to your skills, work ethic, and accomplishments. Good candidates include former managers, senior colleagues you collaborated with, or clients for whom you have completed significant work. Avoid asking people who do not know your work well.

Second, it is best to use LinkedIn’s official “Request a Recommendation” feature, as this streamlines the process. You can do this by navigating to the profile of the person you wish to ask, clicking the “More” button in their introduction card, and then selecting “Request a Recommendation.”

Third, and most importantly, you must personalise the message that comes with the request. Do not just send the generic, default invitation. Your personalised message should start with a polite opening and then briefly remind them of the context of your working relationship, for example, “I hope you are well. I really enjoyed working with you on the XYZ project at ABC Company.”

Fourth, you need to gently guide them on what you would like them to highlight. This is not about telling them what to write, but about making their job easier by jogging their memory. You could say something like, “If you are able to, I would be particularly grateful if you could mention my contributions to the successful product launch,” or “Perhaps you could speak to my project management skills demonstrated during that time.” This helps them focus and saves them the effort of trying to recall specific details from scratch.

Fifth, always be considerate of their time. Acknowledge that they are busy and express your gratitude for their consideration in your request message.

After you have sent the request, if you do not hear back within a week or two, it is generally acceptable to send a single, polite follow-up message as a gentle reminder.

Once they have written the recommendation, LinkedIn allows you to review it before it is displayed on your profile, and you can also request minor revisions if necessary. After accepting it, always send a personal thank-you message to show your appreciation. It is also a very good professional courtesy to offer to write a recommendation for them in return.

In summary, the key to asking for a recommendation professionally is to choose the right person, send a thoughtful, personalised request that makes it easy for them to write it, and to be gracious throughout the process.

Cheers,

Jeff

[Author]

Posts