Most of us have worked with lots of colleagues, and we could never say no to them if they ask us to write a LinkedIn recommendation for them.
The trouble comes when we sit down to write one.
Writing a regular recommendation letter is relatively easy – writing one for a LinkedIn profile is hard. While there is not much difference in the structure of both, it is essential to write a LinkedIn recommendation concisely.
Ordinary recommendation letters come as part of a job application set, so they are written accordingly.
A LinkedIn recommendation letter, however, is written for all to see on a candidate’s LinkedIn profile.
Thus, it has to be strong. Starting with a knockout line and going on to describe your relationship with your colleague is a good way of capturing the reader’s eye.
Another thing that you need to do when writing a LinkedIn recommendation is to share a standout trait – there must be a trait or two that makes your colleague stand out from the rest, and it is here that you need to focus your recommendation.
It is a good idea to end your recommendation with a solid sentence. Talk about what an asset your colleague will be to an employer.
See also: LinkedIn Recommendation Sample for Boss
Here is a sample LinkedIn recommendation that you can use to write a glowing one for your colleague.
LinkedIn Recommendation Sample for Colleague
I have had the privilege of working with Andrea Gustav for seven years. Andrea and I were commissioned to work as marketing interns at Boulders Inc initially and gained experience and promotions together. Through the several years that we spent together in a professional environment, I have seen Andrea grow – both as a marketing professional and a human being.
Andrea is a successful risk-taker. She uses unique ways to determine what the target market needs and has the capability of tweaking her marketing modules accordingly. As a pragmatic leader and a realist, she can holistically grasp ideas and still pay attention to minor details. Andrea is known as diligent and personable – two qualities that define her utterly.
As a creative thinker who possesses a can-do attitude, Andrea is a pleasure to work with. I recommend her for a marketing position at any organization that chooses to take benefit from her diverse skills.
Heather Graham
Marketing Manager
Boulders Inc.