Whether you are developing a resume or answering a behavior-based question in a job interview, it is now standard practice to share proof of your capabilities. Presenting measurable achievements to employers can demonstrate your skills at work. But even with accomplishment-based statements, your experience lands flat without someone else vouching for you. Acquiring recommendations and endorsements on Linkedin can significantly enhance your credibility and attractiveness to potential employers. These endorsements serve as testimonials from individuals who have worked closely with you, attesting to your skills, qualities, and work ethic. According to a 2023 article by Forbes, “many employers can use these statements and assessments instead of formal references.” Here are 14 reasons why you should prioritize gathering recommendations and endorsements:
- Third-Party Validation: Recommendations and endorsements provide external validation of your skills and qualities. When others vouch for your abilities, it adds credibility to the claims you make about yourself.
- Showcase Skills and Qualities: Recommendations and endorsements allow you to highlight specific skills, qualities, and achievements that are relevant to the jobs you are applying for. This can be especially important when trying to land a role in a field in which you have no industry experience. In this case, showcasing your transferrable skills becomes essential.
- Differentiate Yourself: In a competitive job market, having strong recommendations and endorsements can set you apart from other candidates. They give you a unique advantage by showcasing your qualities through the words of others.
- Build Trust: Positive endorsements and recommendations build trust with potential employers. They create a sense of reliability and credibility, making employers more confident in your abilities.
- Enhance Professional Branding: Recommendations and endorsements contribute to your personal brand by reinforcing the strengths you want to be known for. They help shape the image you want to project to employers. According to Harvard Business Review, recommendations of your work on LinkedIn will allow you to avoid the discomfort of self-promoting and allow others to do the bragging for you.
- Provide Examples: Recommendations often include specific examples of your work or interactions. This gives potential employers concrete evidence of how you’ve contributed and excelled in previous roles.
- Leverage Networks: Recommendations and endorsements can be seen by the contacts of the individuals providing them. This expands your reach within your professional network and may lead to additional opportunities.
- Demonstrate Collaboration: Positive recommendations can highlight your ability to work well with others, collaborate effectively, and contribute positively to team dynamics.
- Validate Soft Skills: While your resume may focus on hard skills, recommendations and endorsements can shed light on your soft skills such as communication, leadership, and adaptability.
- Use in Multiple Settings: Recommendations and endorsements can be included on your resume, LinkedIn profile, and other professional platforms. They provide consistent and positive messaging across various touchpoints.
- Reflects Initiative: Gathering recommendations and endorsements shows potential employers that you take your professional image seriously and are proactive in seeking out feedback and support.
- Negotiation and Compensation: When negotiating for a job offer, contract, or project, having evidence of your achievements can help you make a stronger case for higher compensation or better terms.
- Mitigation of Skepticism: In some situations, people might be naturally skeptical of grand claims. Proof can mitigate this skepticism by showing that your accomplishments are real and measurable.
- Confidence Boost: Job hunting can be stressful, and positive recommendations can boost your confidence. Knowing that respected professionals vouch for your abilities can help you approach interviews and applications with a more positive mindset.
When seeking recommendations and endorsements, choose individuals who can provide detailed and relevant insights into your skills and work performance. It’s important to maintain authentic and meaningful connections with your endorsers. Personalize your requests and express gratitude for their support. By curating a strong collection of recommendations and endorsements, you can significantly enhance your job search efforts and increase your chances of landing your desired roles.
To learn how to secure recommendations on LinkedIn check out my blog post, How to Secure More LinkedIn Recommendations using The Triple W Process. As always, if you need further help don’t hesitate to reach out to me via LinkedIn or email.