Not anymore Arlis. It is becoming more important by the day. Just this week I had an Inspector that used to work for me request a recommendation to his page. A potential employer told him that he would not be hired without it. A good six-figure job with benefits. I wrote it for him two nights ago.
I haven't heard back yet except for a quick "Thank you." just a few minutes after I posted it to his page. That company actually has a LinkedIn 'specialist' on staff, whatever that is.
That is news for sure.
Not sure it’s that common yet though.......
Linkedin is like recommendation sources one puts on a resume’ or personal reference list - you almost never find anyone who will say anything bad....and that’s because no one gets linked in to you except those that you approve.......
It’s #1 weakpoint IMHO.