LinkedIn Recommendations vs Formal Letters: When to Use Each

They serve different purposes and audiences.

1. LinkedIn recommendations are public, shorter, and casual — good for general credibility and networking.
2. Formal letters are private, longer, and used for specific applications (jobs, school, visas, awards).
3. A LinkedIn recommendation doesn't replace a formal letter when one is explicitly requested.
4. It's reasonable to ask for both from the same person if you need them for different purposes.

Related reads