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Why LinkedIn Recommendations Are Important

LinkedIn recommendations carry a powerful punch.

If you’ve ever written a resume, I don’t have to tell you how important “references” are.

LinkedIn’s version of references are recommendations!

The recommendation carries a lot of weight. Think about it. If a person has to sit down, think out and compose a few sentences, time is required.

You also are probably safe in assuming there is an element of sincerity involved also. In short, I think the recommendations are trustworthy!

(WARNING: Do NOT confuse LinkedIn recommendations with endorsements. They aren’t the same! You can read more here: Why LinkedIn Endorsements are Silly)

Higher Expectations?

Yes, there’s the added expectation that the writer knows of what they speak! They have had some kind of hands-on experience with the person they are recommending.

For example, on the back cover of my book, Be Social Be Rich, you will discover recommendations from folks. If you make the assumption that the recommendations come from people who have actually read the book, you would be right.

The same is true on LinkedIn!

The recommendations section is a place we can go to get first hand knowledge from folks who have it!

The importance on your own profile? Credibility.

How do you accumulate? Simply ask!

Every time you work with a client or customer, always ask them if they would mind writing a LinkedIn recommendation. After a while, it will become second nature.

And, while we’re on the subject . . .

Why not get in the habit of paying it forward? If someone has done an outstanding job for you, why not surprise them with a recommendation without being asked?

In our blogging, social media, and business worlds, we work with many people. Coaching, mentors, VA’s, tech experts, copywriters, graphic artists, the list goes on and on. What better way to say “thanks” for a job well-done?

LinkedIn Recommendations are golden!

Think of them as representing your raving fans. They not only know, like, and trust you, but have used your services and are willing to share the good news.

Go on now. . . take those LinkedIn recommendations seriously!

Peace,

-Martha

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Proven Ways To Increase Your Online Visibility

Online visibility is the goal of everyone trying to be seen and heard on the internet. Without a big presence, you will be overlooked. And who wants that??

Check it out!

There’s a quick and easy way for you to find out if you’re really “out there” on the web. Simply google yourself! If you google my name, Martha Giffen, you will see hundreds of thousands of results. I remember the first time someone said “I see you everywhere.” That was when I knew my online presence had grown to a nice level.

Here’s some of my techniques that worked:

  • Profile photo – I know. I’ve said this so often, I hate to hear my own voice again, and I know you do too, but this one’s an absolute must. Put your photo on everything you do online. We’re talking current picture here. Leave out the kids and the pets too. Want your blog comments to be associated with your picture? Gravatar.com
  • Blog comments – And while we’re on the subject, commenting on other blogs is a great place to leave your mark. Yes, sometimes it can seem like a tedious task but in my opinion, well worth the time and effort. Especially if you are serious about your online visibility! It’s a great way to begin building relationships and start being seen.
  • Giving is cool – Folks will begin to notice you if you continue to consistently share relevant and interesting content. Of course, sharing the links of others is really nice too!
  • Youtube – It’s personally not my favorite only because I still don’t like being in front of the camera. However, I am quickly (ok, slowly) coming around because it certainly increases your visibility. People do enjoy getting information through videos and you never know which ones will end up going “viral.” You can see my latest here: Best Blogging Tips
  • Social Media – Consistency is what you’re striving for here. It’s not just OK to be on social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, or Pinterest. You actually have to say something relevant! Don’t be shy. Put your helpful links out there on a regular basis. I’m talking daily.

When it’s all said and done, your online visibility is really up to you. You can get out there and make yourself known or curl up in the corner with a website or blog that never gets any traffic.

Make the decision to take your business to soaring new heights and then get out there and make it happen!

Peace,

-Martha

p.s. If you’re ready to take your online visibility up a notch, check out this month’s new program Social Media Summer Splash

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