In the world of professional networking, it is no longer news that LinkedIn stands tall as the go-to platform for forging connections, showcasing expertise, and leaving a digital footprint. However, one feature that is often underestimated and underutilized is LinkedIn recommendation.
Let’s take a moment to talk about what LinkedIn Recommendation is all about. As the phrase implies, it is a feature on LinkedIn that allows users to give and receive reviews from other LinkedIn Users. Consider this feature to be the equivalent of google reviews, but most especially from people in your professional network.
Now that we have cleared that. It is very important to keep in mind that when people can testify to your value and worth, your credibility is unarguable. So what is the purpose of this article?
This blog is focused on how to leverage on LinkedIn recommendations for your professional journey. In order to share practical tips, there is no better way than to draw insights directly from Bode Roberts.
Why Bode Roberts you may ask?
Before you keep reading, take a moment to go through Bode’s LinkedIn profile.
The highlight for us is his recommendation. Yes, over 100 professionals have dropped amazing recommendations on his bio. These recommendations are proof of the value and impact Bode is adding to the tech ecosystem. It is indisputable that he is a trustworthy professional.
Before we dive deeper, let’s talk about personal branding.
WHY IS PERSONAL BRANDING IMPORTANT
To Bode Roberts, “Personal branding is about being able to curate an understanding of yourself in the eyes of others”.
He couldn’t have said it better.
It is a vital component for an individual to create opportunity, promote visibility, and improve one’s capacity to do more. While personal branding is important, the key is self-recognition. In Bode Roberts words, “You have to first accept yourself, who you are, and your purpose. It is a journey, and it takes consistent effort, maturity, and alignment with purpose to maintain self-recognition.”
He also emphasized that you can’t give what you don’t have. If you can’t recognize yourself, you can’t help others recognize and accept themselves. There will always be doubt and fear, and sometimes we can have low self-esteem, but when you properly recognize the value that you carry and how valuable your contribution is to the community, it helps you on the journey of self-recognition.
So the first step to personal branding is mastering self-recognition.
WHAT PEOPLE SAY MATTERS
While most people do not care about what anyone says, Bode Roberts mentions that when you are very particular about the personal or professional brand that you are building, it is very important that you pay attention to the voices around you because it is those same voices that will recognize you or tear you down when the need arises.
“Of course, there are some voices that are not meant to be heard, but at the same time, there are some voices that, when you listen to them, lift you up. The truth is that people are important because it is people who occupy positions, approve visas, promote others, and give business deals. Through the testimonies of others about you, you can reflect on what you are doing well and what you are not. Remember, you are not living life for yourself alone but for the betterment of others.”
UNDERSTANDING LINKEDIN RECOMMENDATIONS
LinkedIn recommendations go beyond just affirmations of skills; they help build trust for your brand. As professionals vouch for your abilities, they contribute to the narrative of your career, creating a compelling story of competence. With over 100 recommendations, Bode Roberts LinkedIn profile now has increased credibility, visibility, and reliability. While many LinkedIn users are informed of the existence of recommendations, the true potential often goes unnoticed. Positive recommendations play a major role in influencing how others perceive your professional credibility. They act as virtual referrals, affirming your skills and qualifications to a broader audience.
Why LinkedIn Recommendations Matter
1. Building Credibility:
Recommendations add a layer of credibility to your profile, offering real-world evidence of your capabilities.
They serve as a qualitative metric, providing depth to your professional narrative beyond standard skills listings. AzA
2. Strengthening Connections:
Recommendations foster stronger connections by showcasing the positive relationships you’ve built in your network.
They also act as a bridge between personal connections and potential employers or collaborators.
3. Career Advancement:
Hiring managers and recruiters value recommendations as genuine insights into a candidate’s potential.
Recommendations contribute to a comprehensive professional narrative that can tip the scales in your favor.
WHAT CAN YOU DO BETTER?
Consider LinkedIn recommendations as a strategic tool that can elevate your professional presence and serve as a dynamic networking goldmine. These recommendations can be a bridge that connects you to others in your industry, opening doors to new opportunities and growth.
The untapped potential of LinkedIn recommendations remains a hidden treasure. It’s time to not only appreciate its significance but to actively leverage it for personal and professional growth.