LinkedIn recommendations can be a great way to manage expectations. Recommendations from clients who’ve used your services in the past can give prospective clients a better view of what people love about working with you.
Often, what really impresses people is a soft skill, or a type of service rather than your skill level. Most Virtual Assistants are more than competent with word processing software, social media or whatever other services they offer. The difference is in how they like to work and how you like to work. And what elements of service you value.
For instance, if you’re a person who loves to use the phone, a Virtual Assistant like me who often leaves the phone in another room while working on something, or who puts the phone on silent while I concentrate – probably won’t be ideal for you. Similarly, if you’re someone who likes a chat, you’ll work well with someone who is also happy to chat. Whereas if you prefer a totally task focused relationship, you’ll get frustrated by someone who wants to chat.
LinkedIn recommendations are one way to let prospective clients know what you excel at. If you want chatty clients, ask clients for recommendations that mention how friendly your service is. If you want businesslike communications, ask your clients to mention how quick and efficient you are.
You might think it seems rude to ask clients for a specific recommendation, but many people don’t provide recommendations simply because they don’t know what to say. So, by giving them a guideline about what you’d like them to comment on you’re actually being helpful and increasing the likelihood of getting a result.
If you’re not sure how to go about it, or feel awkward asking, here’s a great article form Hubspot on how to ask for a recommendation.
