Many people tend to underestimate the power of a good photo. That’s a big mistake, as having a great profile picture may change a lot of things for you on LinkedIn. Just like when going to an interview, the first impression you make on all possible connections is through the way you look – how you’re dressed and the expressions you’re making, and on social media, you make that impression through your photo.
When it comes to creating professional LinkedIn photos, most people assume that it’s a notorious and difficult process they won’t enjoy, especially if they perceive themselves as unphotogenic and don’t typically like to take photos. However, we’re here to prove them wrong and show that having great LinkedIn pictures is not that scary.
Without further ado, let’s take a look at the vital tips you should follow to get the perfect professional photo.
5 Tips For Having the Best LinkedIn Photos
Below, we will not only be giving you tips on how to take the best possible photo but also on how to choose the most professional-looking one for your profile. Keep on reading.
Tip #1: Choose a Photographer
If you can afford it, hiring a professional photographer will be helpful in getting you a great picture. However, taking that step is unnecessary if you simply can’t afford it. Asking a friend or a family member to take several shots of you is also a good option; however, make sure to choose someone who knows how to take good pictures and with whom you feel comfortable. That way, you will be able to get the most natural-looking and relaxed shots, which are usually the best ones to use.
If you don’t feel comfortable asking people for help and you don’t want to pose in front of another person, you can take a picture on your own. Most phones nowadays have a hands-free feature and a timer that allows you to put the phone in front of you and let it take a picture. This might be the best way to take a good photo for people who are shy and don’t like to pose. Additionally, you can take as many shots as you want that way, as you’re not dependent on anyone.
Tip #2: Use Headshots
Profile pictures on LinkedIn look like small thumbnails. Your photo should consist only of your head, neck, and maybe the tops of your shoulders. If you try to use a full-body photograph, the entire picture will appear too small, and people won’t be able to see your face, which is something you want to avoid.
Tip #3: Be Professionally Dressed
LinkedIn is not Instagram – yes, it’s a social media platform, but it’s one aimed at working professionals and not one on which you can become a model. That’s why your focus should be on looking professional, and the way you’re dressed should reflect that. Usually, this means a shirt and a suit for men and a nice dress, blazer, or shirt for women. Choose clothes in solid colors and avoid anything with too many patterns.
Along with that, try to steer clear of strapless dresses and tops; you don’t want anything that will make you appear half-naked. Also, as the focus is on looking professional, it’s good to avoid heavy make-up, loads of jewelry, or distracting hairstyles. It would help if you aimed to look neat and put together.
Tip #4: Choose a Recent Photo
You should avoid using dated photos, regardless of how good you look in them. Always use pictures that were taken recently so that people aren’t shocked when they meet you in person. Just imagine looking at a picture of a 25-year-old and then ending up meeting someone well over 30 – that won’t make a good impression on the person you’re meeting.
Tip #5: Keep Things Simple
When we talk about looking professional, it’s vital to keep things as clean and minimalistic as possible. The photo you choose should be of you and you only. No pets, husbands, wives, children, or even co-workers. The background should be as clean as possible, without people, trees, and so on. The best practice is to take a picture in front of a giant light-colored background. Remember, this is a professional social media platform; the goal is to show that you’re a trustworthy working professional, not that you’re a great husband, friend, or mom.
Why Is Having Professional LinkedIn Photos So Important?
The expression “First impressions last” is a very true one, especially in the professional world. On LinkedIn, that impression starts with how your profile looks, and a vital part of it is your photo. If your profile lacks one or has one that’s muddy, grainy, and has five other people on it, it can look fishy and unprofessional and might make people not want to connect with you. On the other hand, professional photos in good lighting, where you’re professionally dressed, and you look calm and collected, can create a positive impression on strangers that don’t know you, and it may make them want to.
Additionally, taking a few good pictures isn’t all that difficult and may come in handy for your LinkedIn profile and other purposes, for example, if you’re attending a conference and you need a badge, or for your CV when you’re making a new one.
Before We Let You Go…
Don’t forget that often, seemingly minor details, such as your profile picture, may make or break the image you’re crafting. That’s why all of us should be ready to dedicate a few minutes to polishing even the smallest of details. That way, you will know that you’ve done everything in your power to get the result you desire. Hopefully, you found our article helpful and are now ready to implement all the tricks and tips.