Many professionals ask: If an employer gives you a printed recommendation, is it okay to post it on LinkedIn? Should you get their consent first? And how can you share the content effectively?
It’s always advisable to ask for permission before posting someone’s recommendation in a public forum like LinkedIn. Consent not only shows respect for the person who provided it but also ensures your content remains professional and accurate.
If you have a printed recommendation, you can easily convert it to a digital format:
Use a scanner or a local print shop to create a PDF version of the letter.
Free or built-in scan-to-PDF tools are widely available online.
Once digitized, you have several ways to display it on your LinkedIn profile. For example, you can attach the PDF directly to your profile in the Featured section, include key excerpts as a recommendation post, or share it via SlideShare to make it easily viewable by your network.
SlideShare: A simple and effective tool to showcase PDFs and other documents. Even if the recommender isn’t on LinkedIn, you can still display their recommendation through SlideShare.
Microsoft 365 / MS-Live Office: You can create a personal website using your own name, which allows you to host recommendations, build your personal brand, and make your content discoverable online. Microsoft provides step-by-step guidance for setting this up.
Sharing recommendations in a professional manner strengthens your personal brand. It communicates credibility and professionalism to prospective employers and connections. Maintaining a consistent and professional online presence sends a strong message about your expertise and reputation.
If you’re managing referrals or recommendations for your professional profile, start by digitizing and organizing your documents, then share them thoughtfully with consent. Need guidance on building a professional LinkedIn profile that highlights your referrals effectively? Reach out to explore strategies that showcase your personal brand.
