As unemployment has increased, so too has the number of job search scams identity theft rings are perpetrating against desperate job seekers.

As potential employers or recruiters peruse your work experience on LinkedIn, recommendations from past and present colleagues can be one of the most helpful features to help communicate your value. Here's five tips for doing the most good for yourself with LinkedIn recommendations.

Focusing your job search on the employers that need your skills the most will improve your chances of connecting with key hiring-decision makers and landing a new job.