In 2012 LinkedIn launched a feature known as “Endorsements” that has seemed to confuse many people. Questions have come from everywhere, such as: What is it? Why should I use it? Can I decline an endorsement?

Let’s spend some time learning about how this feature works and how you can make the most of it.

What is an Endorsement?

It depends on who you speak to, as everyone has a different opinion on this feature. LinkedIn referred to endorsements as a way of giving kudos to an individual on a particular skill, while some people say it’s like a thumbs up, equating it to a Facebook-style “Like” for individuals. My perspective is that an endorsement is a way to showcase individual skills in an easy to review manner.

Why should I use Endorsements?

Think of this tool as a way of staying connected to clients and prospects with whom you want to continue to build relationships. When you endorse someone, he or she receives a notification. This is a subtle way to keep yourself in front of the individual. Additionally, it illustrates that you believe in a person’s skill, showing that you value working with them.

Can I decline Endorsements?

This has been a very popular question. You cannot decline an endorsement, but you can hide it from your profile. You can hide the entire skill or you can hide the individual who has endorsed that skill. Watch the video below to learn how.

How Do You Use Endorsements?

One of the benefits that Endorsements provide that very few people discuss is the ability to look up individuals on LinkedIn by their skills. Visit http://www.linkedin.com/skills/ and search for individuals by skill. This can be a great way to find talent or referral partners. You will also find groups listed for these skills on this page.

LinkedIn Endorsements can have great value if you take the time to review this feature and start using it to your advantage.

If you have questions, please contact me here or feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn.