LinkedIn Recommendations
As a small business owner, you know how crucial building relationships on LinkedIn is to driving sales and growing your network. But did you know that LinkedIn recommendations can be a game-changer in establishing credibility and trust with potential clients? In fact, a staggering 92% of consumers trust recommendations from individuals over brands. In this article, we'll explore the importance of LinkedIn recommendations and provide practical tips on how to leverage them to boost your sales and relationships.
What Are LinkedIn Recommendations?
LinkedIn recommendations are a section of your profile on LinkedIn where colleagues, partners, friends, clients and employees can leave feedback on what it's like to work with you. You'll find it right at the bottom of people's LinkedIn profiles.
Why LinkedIn Recommendations Matter
LinkedIn recommendations are a powerful way to showcase your expertise and build trust with potential clients. They provide social proof that you're a credible and reliable business owner, which can be a major differentiator in a crowded market. By having a strong portfolio of recommendations, you can increase your visibility, establish your authority, and ultimately drive more sales.
How to Ask for a LinkedIn Recommendation
Asking for a LinkedIn recommendation can be daunting, but it's a crucial step in building your portfolio. Here are some tips to help you ask with confidence:
Be Strategic About Who You Ask
Don't ask just anyone for a recommendation. Identify clients or colleagues who have had a positive experience working with you and are likely to sing your praises. This will ensure that your recommendations are genuine and impactful.
Make Your Request Personal
When asking for a recommendation, make sure to personalise your request. Explain why you value their opinion and how their recommendation will help you grow your business. This will show that you're invested in the process and appreciate their time.
Make It Easy for Them to Recommend You
Provide your requester with some guidance on what you're looking for in a recommendation. This could include specific projects or skills you want them to highlight. Make it easy for them to recommend you by providing a clear call-to-action and a deadline.
How to Write a Great LinkedIn Recommendation
Writing a great LinkedIn recommendation requires some thought and effort. Here are some tips to help you craft a compelling recommendation:
Be Specific and Detailed
Avoid generic recommendations that don't provide any real value. Instead, focus on specific projects or experiences you've had with the person. Provide details about what they did well and how they added value to your business.
Focus on the Person, Not the Company
A great LinkedIn recommendation focuses on the person, not the company. Highlight their skills, strengths, and accomplishments, and explain how they've helped you grow your business.
Keep It Concise and Scannable
Keep your recommendation concise and scannable. Use short paragraphs and bullet points to make it easy for readers to quickly scan and understand.
Conclusion
LinkedIn recommendations are a powerful tool for small business owners looking to drive sales and grow their network. By asking for recommendations strategically, writing great recommendations, and showcasing them on your LinkedIn profile, you can establish credibility, build trust, and ultimately drive more sales. So, what are you waiting for? Start building your portfolio of LinkedIn recommendations today!{}
About the Author
Charli is a co-founder and marketing director of thelime.one and a regular contributor to LinkedIn.
The author worked with AI assistance on this article. (We're a startup and we need to get our stuff out there!) We're working our way through the most popular pieces and rewriting fully with our human team.