By Leia O’Connell, MSW, GCDF
Contributor and Career Coach, APUS

It’s that time of year again! We’re thinking of not just ourselves, but what we can do for those around us. If you’re not sure what’s on the holiday wish list for a colleague, a recommendation on LinkedIn may be just the thing they’re looking for. Since you can’t buy it in stores (or have it shipped to you, like most of my presents this year), it’s the perfect way to show your appreciation for an outstanding co-worker.

When you’re looking at a LinkedIn profile and see a person has received recommendations, it’s likely to give you pause. Another person took time out of their busy day to sit down and share a glowing review. As a result, the reader now has an extra glimpse into what makes this professional stand out.

Take a moment to look through your contacts list:

• Who has contributed significantly to your own career development in the past year?
• Who has demonstrated skill above and beyond what was expected?
• Who has been a joy to work with this past year?
• Who has provided leadership which allowed your team or department to grow?
• Who has had a measurable positive impact on you, your work or your clients?

Unsure of what to write? Think about what you might say if you were asked to provide a professional reference. What are the skills and abilities that you’ve seen, which may be difficult to capture in a resume or LinkedIn profile? Consider speaking to their character or “soft skills” (i.e. listening abilities, collaboration, flexibility, decision making, resiliency, etc.), which are best illustrated when someone else shares them.

Taking the time to write a review shows your appreciation and will absolutely put a smile on the face of the reader. You never know who may read your review – it may be just the edge needed to help a colleague capture a new opportunity.

This holiday season, you don’t have to spend time wondering about the best gift to get those you care about in your professional circle – a LinkedIn recommendation will bring joy to anyone who receives it!