We all know the benefits of having a solid profile on LinkedIn. It attracts the right kind of attention from recruiters and hiring managers, helps build a strong, credible network, and is a convenient and easy way to showcase your work, skill set and passions.

And another thing? It's the perfect place to show off all the great things people have to say about you. Recommendations from LinkedIn can be an important asset to those who want to hire you. After all, nothing makes you look better than praise from an important client, former boss or close colleague.

When should you ask for a recommendation on LinkedIn?

Whatever time you choose, the context you provide is key.

If you're really on top of things, you can ask for recommendations throughout the year. For example, let's say you just finished a large, successful project with co-workers and clients. You can then ask for recommendations. Provide them with the context that you are always collecting feedback and you will be very grateful for their recommendation on LinkedIn.

However, it is not always easy to get caught up in the process. That's why it's recommended that you use key check-in and feedback points - such as the next review cycle - to ask for recommendations.

Many people also tend to reach out for recommendations when they leave a job. In that case, it's best to ask for it right away, when you're still fresh in people's minds. It's easier to get recommendations when it's easier for people to write them.

Consider how a request for a recommendation might look to an outsider. When it's unexpected, it can make people think you're preparing to leave, so be careful. Think about who you are asking for it from and when, and don't forget to provide context.

Who should you ask?

It is suggested that you get a variety of voices, including, but not limited to, senior leaders with whom you have worked or who are familiar with the work you have done, current and previous managers, direct team members and clients.

This will give everyone who reads your recommendations a well-rounded view of how you show up with different audiences and the opportunity to see that you have followers at a higher level.

Of course, you want that person to be able to give you a complimentary review. But you also want her to be able to relate to specific things you've done, your work ethic and passion. A short and vague answer is almost as useless as no recommendation at all, so make sure you can trust that it will be accurate and thoughtful.

How to ask?

Be polite and professional, make it very easy for them to say yes, and pass it on.

You can confirm that you recognize that they are busy and offer to write a text that they can edit. You can also offer to provide a recommendation and ask for specific things they would like you to include in your recommendation to them.

When you write a message to a person, give them the context of what you are looking for in a recommendation. For example, are you moving from a project helper to a project manager? Then ask for specific feedback on the key skills required of a project manager.

By applying these hints, it will be much easier for you to ask for recommendations and definitely get them!