Your LinkedIn profile photo – is it working for you?
They say don’t judge a book by its cover but according to LinkedIn, members with profile photos can receive up to 21 times more profile views than those without.
As a professional network, your LinkedIn profile photo should make a good first impression. You never know when a potential client, employer, or business contact may stumble across your profile.
To help, here are 9 LinkedIn profile photo examples that are best avoided.
1. Old but gold
You may think you peaked in the 90s, but if your photo is old enough to have its own drivers’ license, it’s got to go. The people viewing your profile want to build up an idea of what you look like now. So, it’s time for an update, especially if you’re going to meet them in person one day.
2. #Selfie
Thinking of using a cheeky selfie? Think again. You may know all your best angles, but an overly posed photo can look unprofessional, so save those for Instagram or Tinder.
3. Why so serious?
People want to work with individuals who have a positive attitude, so turn that frown upside down and flaunt those pearly whites. Similarly, avoid those ‘deep in thought’ poses. Whether it’s a hand on the chin or looking off into the distance pondering life’s greatest mysteries, these may not leave the impression you were hoping for.
4. Lurking in the shadows
People want to see you! For the best result, use natural lighting to enhance your photo and avoid any harsh shadows.
5. The eligible bachelor
Don’t use anything too alluring that would be better suited to your dating profile. Keep it professional, no matter how much you may enjoy long walks on the beach.
6. The wild weekender
It’s important to have a work-life balance but keep the photographic evidence to more personal platforms like Facebook or Instagram. Anything outside of a work context may send the wrong message to your network.
7. Four-legged friends
We all love cute animals to brighten our day, but this doesn’t mean they should feature on your profile. It’s meant to highlight your professional life, not your personal one, so try to refrain from including your four-legged friend in your profile photo… Unless you’re a vet!
8. The unrecognisable
When you upload your photo, make sure it’s not grainy or blurry. You might face this issue when cropping your face out of a full-body photo or group picture. Plus, while you may be tempted to apply filters to help you look your best, we recommend keeping them to a minimum.
9. Anonymous
And last but not least: don’t leave your profile icon as the default LinkedIn silhouette! Whilst you may not be a fan of having your photo taken, it allows people to put a face to a name.
Ensuring you have a picture that tells your story, whilst maintaining a professional tone is the ultimate key. Whether you opt for an action shot or something more conservative, remember that the picture you show the world leaves an impression.
Find out how to improve your LinkedIn profile or visit our Careers Guidance page for further information.
