Providing a recommendation for a former colleague

[Anonymous]

I want to provide a good recommendation for a former colleague who was recently RIFed.

We worked closely together and were at about the same level. I know a lot about the quality of the former colleague’s work.

The friend does something comparable to writing copy for a construction equipment sales website. So, skilled, detail-oriented, poorly paid work.

I’ve never been through any official manager training.

My company provides no official recommendations. I’m checking tomorrow to see what rules apply to recommendations from non-manager workers.

The former colleague asked me to put a recommendation on LinkedIn.

Is there a way to put a recommendation on LinkedIn in such a way that only people who’ve received the former colleague’s resume can see the recommendation?

Could you give me any other advice about how to provide a helpful recommendation in this kind of situation?

[Anonymous]

My F500 company prohibits giving recommendations for legal reasons. Does your company have a policy?

I would write three or so lines.

1) I was a colleague of X. I observed/interacted with her work product.

2) Work product did x for company (improved sales, communicated key points, etc.)

3) I am available to give a more detailed reference at any point. Feel free to contact me through LinkedIn.

[Anonymous]

PP. No, there is no way to restrict your LinkedIn recommendation to select viewers only.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:PP. No, there is no way to restrict your LinkedIn recommendation to select viewers only.

Thank you.

[Anonymous]

No it cannot be restricted. You could offer to serve as a reference, or provide a letter of recommendation they could attach to applications. I do think you’re smart to check your work policies. Perhaps you can call it a “testimonial” and not a “recommendation.”