Regardless if you’re looking for a new job, have just created a LinkedIn profile, or have had a LinkedIn account for quite some time already – you may need to update it. If you’re still using your college photo from way back when – you definitely need to update it! We all know that we should never judge a book by its cover, but in this case, it’s what makes us more prominent.
Your profile picture is essential to your LinkedIn presence. Having a great picture will increase your chances of making a good impression on potential hiring managers – and is also literally the face of your brand! Having an unprofessional profile picture or no picture at all will mean fewer views and fewer opportunities. Who wants that? No one!
Luckily, many of us have smartphones with high-resolution cameras, meaning we can take our own headshots without having to hire a professional. Having a professional headshot is ideal, but not required. Here are some ways to select a strong photo for your LinkedIn profile.
1.) Look approachable
Although the picture is professional, it should also feel approachable and genuine. Be sure to smile! Hiring managers are looking for people they can visualize working alongside their team.
2.) Take a headshot
Your LinkedIn picture is rather small and non-clickable, so make sure the image you upload is predominantly of your face. And before you upload it, make sure it is high-resolution. A low-resolution will make your picture look pixelated and wonky. The dimension of LinkedIn profile pictures is 400 x 400 pixels. Larger file sizes are okay to use, just do not 8MB as that is the max.
3.) Take the photo straight on
Make sure the camera is at eye level, and make sure to look at the lens. Sometimes you have to adjust the camera’s positioning if the angle feels awkward. The first attempt might not be the best shot, but it’s important to do this without feeling rushed. Use a self-timer on your camera settings and prop up your phone against a wall (or tripod if you happen to have one). And of course, make sure your posture is straight as it exudes confidence!
4.) Don’t use a social media-style picture
Avoid using filters and selfie-style pictures. These pictures should look professional and give a clear representation of who you are. Filters can warp your features or make the photo low-resolution, so be wary of blurry images. You can still use a clean black and white filter, but anything else might make your picture look more like an Instagram post than a LinkedIn headshot.
5.) Keep it simple
You might look great in that group shot from your last reunion – but avoid cropping into it to use as a profile picture. It just doesn’t look professional. You also want to make sure you don’t have a distracting background either. Anything busy in the backdrop will take away from you, which defeats the purpose. You can always use free applications like Canva that allow you to edit your pictures, remove backgrounds, and resize them to your liking.
Remember – keep the focus on yourself and give a clear representation of who you are to recruiters and hiring managers. That way, your LinkedIn profile will be up to date and set for success!