LinkedIn | Relationships Matter: P.S. Can You Endorse Me?
Have you ever received an email like this?
“I’m sending this to ask you for a brief recommendation of me that I can include in my LinkedIn profile. If you have any questions, let me know. Thanks in advance for helping me out”
Last week, I received this same email from two different people. The generic request came as somewhat of a shock given that I’ve never worked with either of the senders on any type of a project – directly or indirectly – and have minimal knowledge of their abilities and work ethic.
I didn’t reply to the request. I felt uncomfortable writing, posting and attaching my name to an endorsement of praise for someone I genuinely couldn’t “vouch” for. Like a compliment, shouldn’t an endorsement come without solicitation? I have posted several recommendations on LinkedIn because I had great experiences working with those particular people. They didn’t have to ask me.
Is the “can you endorse me” email becoming common practice? Do you feel roused by the idea of someone sending this type of aloof request?
Experiences & Observations, Social Media | Rachel Rusnak August 25, 2009
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By Matt Dollinger, August 25, 2009 @ 10:05 pm
Rachel,
Very very interesting post. Short and sweet but one of those things that I think people really need to consider. I too, have received a number of requests from people that i have never done business with… and it’s one of those things that makes you go “really… really???”
Here’s the cool thing that LinkedIn does however. If you give someone a recommendation it actually prompts them (when they accept it) “Why don’t you leave one for ?”
i would recommend that most people try this element unless they use some very very convincing speech or email prior.
Just my two thoughts, but great post and great topic. Hope you get some more thoughts.
Matt
By Rachel Rusnak, August 25, 2009 @ 11:11 pm
Matt, thanks for your insight. I agree! I had the same “really…really??” reaction.
I do understand that people get busy and sidetracked. There have been a few occasions when I’ve said, “Gosh, I should really write a review about that restaurant on Yelp,” yet I’ve never actually done it, but the reviews I have written relate to amazing experiences that were so wonderful I wanted to share my excitement.
I believe the same holds true in relationships: When you have an awesome experience, you will make a point to vocalize it – without being prompted to do so.
Thanks again for your thoughts!