A LinkedIn recommendation is more useful when it describes a real working relationship and a specific contribution. The strongest requests therefore begin before you click “Ask for recommendation”: choose the right person, identify what they actually observed and make the request easy to answer.
Who Can You Ask?
LinkedIn’s current help documentation says recommendations can be requested from first-degree connections you work with or have worked with.
Who Should You Ask?
- A former manager who directly observed your work.
- A client who can describe your contribution.
- A colleague who collaborated closely with you.
- A project lead who saw a specific deliverable.
- A mentor who has enough first-hand context to write something concrete.
Do not choose someone solely because they have a senior title. A detailed recommendation from someone who actually worked with you can be more informative than a vague endorsement from someone who barely knows your work.
Ask About a Specific Contribution
Instead of “Can you recommend me?”, give context: what you worked on, what you would like them to mention and why you value their perspective.
A Better Request Template
Hi [Name], I enjoyed working with you on [project/role]. I’m updating my LinkedIn profile as I focus on [target area]. If you’re comfortable, would you be willing to write a short recommendation about our work together, particularly [specific contribution or strength]? I’d be happy to return the favor if there is a genuine area where I can speak to your work.
The message is a starting point, not something to send unchanged to everyone.
How to Request It on LinkedIn
LinkedIn’s current instructions allow you to request a recommendation from a connection’s profile or from the Recommendations section of your own profile. The request includes the relationship, position at the time and a personalized message. LinkedIn’s current request instructions.
Give the Writer Useful Context
You can make the process easier by reminding them of the project, approximate dates, your role and one or two outcomes they personally witnessed. Do not write a fake recommendation for them to copy.
What Makes a Recommendation Credible?
- Specific context.
- First-hand observation.
- A concrete contribution.
- A believable description of how you worked.
- Language appropriate to the professional relationship.
What If They Say No?
A recommendation is voluntary. LinkedIn notes that recipients can decline recommendation requests. Do not pressure someone or repeatedly follow up.
Can You Request a Revision?
Yes. LinkedIn allows you to request a revision of a recommendation you’ve received, including through the Recommendations section and a personalized revision message. LinkedIn’s revision guidance.
Recommendation Checklist
- You actually worked with the person.
- They can describe your work from first-hand experience.
- Your request explains the context.
- You ask for specificity rather than praise.
- You personalize each request.
- You accept that the person may decline.
- You review the recommendation before adding it to your profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ask a former manager for a LinkedIn recommendation?
Yes, if you are first-degree connections and the person has enough first-hand knowledge of your work. LinkedIn specifically supports requests to first-degree connections you work with or have worked with.
Should I write the recommendation for them?
Do not fabricate a recommendation for someone else to post. You can provide context, project details and the contribution you hope they remember, while leaving the wording to them.
What if I want to change a recommendation after receiving it?
LinkedIn provides a process for requesting a revision. Review the recommendation first and ask politely for a specific correction or clarification.
If you are using LinkedIn as part of a broader job search, see our guide on asking for a LinkedIn job referral.
Final Takeaway
A useful LinkedIn recommendation is not a popularity badge. It is a small piece of professional evidence. Ask people who can honestly explain what you did, how you worked and what they personally observed.
LinkedIn features and interface labels can change; instructions checked October 1, 2026.
