Linked is more than just a repository for resume think of it more like a scrap book of your professional journey:
When Robin left Batman, he didn’t just disappear, he left knowing he had learned from the best.
When Michael Corleone stepped up, it wasn’t just because of legacy it was because of everything he’d absorbed in the shadows of giants.
That’s what a LinkedIn recommendation should feel like. Not just a template. Not just “pleasure to work with.”
It should be a closing chapter that says:
💡 “I was led by someone exceptional.”
💡 “I learned, I grew, and now I carry that legacy forward.”
So if you're moving on, or simply honoring a mentor who shaped you, here are a few ways to actually say it , without sounding like corporate filler.
In this post, we’ll break down recommendation examples tailored give to job seekers, professionals, and networkers , This isn’t about fluff. It’s about strategy , and style.
A good LinkedIn recommendation isn’t just about saying “they were great to work with.”
For an employee, it’s a chance to express genuine gratitude, reflect on how much they’ve grown, and show future employers they didn’t just “do the job” , they thrived under great leadership.
For a boss, a thoughtful recommendation says just as much about their leadership as it does about the employee’s performance. It reflects their ability to mentor, guide, and bring the best out of people.
But you know what’s the message nobody remembers? sounding robotic:
“{{Name}} was a hardworking individual with good communication skills…”
So skip the fluff. Be specific. Be human.
The upcoming sections will show you exactly why writing recommendations is a very profitable practice for professionals
LinkedIn recommendations enhance your boss's profile as well as your’s by offering third-party endorsements.
In 2025, as the professional landscape becomes even more competitive, credible endorsements will play a crucial role in distinguishing profiles.
Writing a thoughtful recommendation can improve your relationship with your boss. It reflects appreciation and recognition of their leadership and management skills, fostering mutual respect and understanding.
A well-crafted recommendation not only boosts your boss’s profile but also showcases your ability to communicate positively and professionally, attracting attention from potential employers or collaborators.
By normalizing giving and receiving recommendations, workplaces can cultivate a culture where recognition is regular and morale is high.
Let’s be honest we’ve all read LinkedIn recommendations that sound like they were written by a Robot.
Technically correct? Sure.
Emotionally engaging? Not even close.
In an age where AI tools are everywhere, the human voice is your stamp for “credibility”. A generic recommendation gets skipped but a thoughtful, specific one leaves a lasting impression.
Understanding the context and the audience is crucial in crafting recommendations on LinkedIn. Here’s how you can tailor your message for different scenarios:
When your boss helped you grow personally & professionally.
Example:
"I’ve had the privilege of working under [Boss’s Name] for [Duration], and they’ve been more than a manager a true mentor. Their insights, feedback, and belief in my capabilities shaped my confidence and skill set in [Field]. I genuinely owe much of my growth to their leadership."
When you worked on intense, deadline-driven or high-stakes projects.
Example:
"I worked with [Boss’s Name] on some of the most challenging projects of my career at [Company]. Their ability to stay calm under pressure, align teams, and keep focus razor-sharp was unmatched. I learned the real meaning of execution and accountability through those moments."
When their management style left a lasting impression.
Example:
"[Boss’s Name] led by example , firm when needed, empathetic when it mattered most. They had a unique way of bringing out the best in everyone on the team. Watching them navigate complex decisions taught me how real leadership blends strength with humanity."
When they were your manager at the start of your career.
Example:
"[Boss’s Name] was my first manager when I joined [Company], and the experience set the tone for the rest of my career. Their patience, structured feedback, and belief in letting young talent take ownership made my transition into the workforce seamless and empowering."
When they helped you pivot or upskill into a new domain.
Example:
"Under [Boss’s Name]’s guidance, I transitioned from [Previous Role] into [New Role/Domain] , a leap I couldn’t have made without their trust and support. They didn’t just assign tasks; they ensured I understood the ‘why’ behind them, which accelerated my learning curve."
When you worked remotely under their management.
Example:
"Working remotely with [Boss’s Name] felt as connected and energizing as any in-person setup. Their communication clarity, team rituals, and empathy ensured the team stayed aligned, motivated, and human. They redefined what great virtual leadership can look like."
During company restructuring, layoffs, market downturns, etc.
Example:
"I witnessed [Boss’s Name] navigate one of the toughest periods at [Company]. Through uncertainty, they provided stability and transparent leadership. Their resilience and people-first approach kept the team grounded, and it reminded me how character is revealed in a crisis."
When you earned a promotion or recognition thanks to their support.
Example:
"My recent promotion at [Company] wouldn’t have been possible without [Boss’s Name]’s mentorship. They pushed me to step outside my comfort zone and guided me in taking strategic ownership of my work. Their trust and vision shaped the leader I’m becoming."
When they gave you space to lead or experiment.
Example:
"[Boss’s Name] empowered me to think independently and take bold bets. Their trust allowed me to drive initiatives and own key outcomes. They didn’t micromanage , they coached, challenged, and celebrated wins, creating a culture where ideas thrived."
When you're moving on from the role/company.
Example:
"As I move on from [Company], I carry forward everything I learned under [Boss’s Name]. Their mentorship was grounded in honesty, strategy, and care. I’m incredibly grateful for the trust and growth they offered me, and I’ll take those lessons into every role ahead."
Writing a LinkedIn recommendation doesn’t mean spilling everything you know. Just like in a job interview, there’s a line between being honest and being inappropriate. Here’s what not to include:
It’s tempting to highlight everything , especially juicy internal wins , but resist. Avoid disclosing confidential strategies, performance metrics, client names, or internal issues.
Instead of: “They led a $3.4M turnaround during our secret M&A deal...”
Try: “They led a high-impact initiative during a critical company transition.”
Even if your boss helped you navigate tricky team dynamics, LinkedIn isn’t the place to mention who was difficult or what was broken. Keep it clean.
If it’s not public knowledge yet, don’t publish it in your recommendation. Simple rule: if your boss wouldn’t post it on LinkedIn, you shouldn’t either.
A warm tone is great, but avoid sharing emotional backstories that cross into private territory. Respect their professional image as much as you’d want yours respected.
Bottom line: Its important to be someone remembered by but it should not be for wrong reasons.
Say what matters but don’t say everything.
Writing a LinkedIn recommendation for your boss isn't just a kind gesture, it's a smart move that shows emotional intelligence, gratitude, and professionalism. When done right, it highlights your ability to recognize great leadership and contribute to a healthy work culture.
Whether you're wrapping up a role or simply acknowledging someone who’s guided your growth, keep it honest and specific. The best recommendations feel personal, not polished , and they say as much about you as they do about the person you’re recommending.
If you’re looking to take your LinkedIn presence further, check out these next steps:
Small moves like this can lead to big conversations, and sometimes, even bigger opportunities.
Happy connecting! 👋
Nobody likes to works for or works with an Ungrateful Person.