It is as simple as this: don’t treat your Linkedin profile like Facebook, Twitter or any other social network, and don’t upload any picture on Linkedin if you feel you can’t show it to a potential employer. Despite the simplicity of these 2 rules, many are still confused as to what constitutes a good Linkedin profile picture.
In this article we will mention 8 mistakes to avoid to ultimately boost your representation on Linkedin:
1. No picture
Many people make the mistake of deliberately not uploading a picture to their Linkedin profile. While I myself have chosen to make my profile picture on Linkedin only visible to connections; it is not acceptable to have no picture at all. Using a picture makes you more of a person in the eyes of your Linkedin viewers, it connects them to you as a human and showcases confidence in yourself. Knowing what somebody looks like adds credibility and trust immediately while not knowing that has the reverse effect on people. Who wants to do business with someone who can’t have a simple picture of themselves on a professional network? Moreover, it’s easier for people to recognize your face than your name.
2. Your picture is too far away
Rule number one in Linkedin picture uploading, is not to upload a full-body photo. The dimensions of Linkedin profile pictures don’t allow for big, detailed pictures so use it smartly. If you have a full-body picture of you standing infront of a building or a tree, no one will recognize you. Linkedin personal pictures are supposed to help you connect with people, not brag about your last holiday or new house.
3. Your picture is inappropriate
Your profile Linkedin is your new CV. Would you put a picture of you half naked on your CV? What about smiling like a crazy person? Your answer has to be a “no” and the same thing goes for Linkedin. Focus on appearing appropriate, credible, professional and friendly instead of fun, sexy and crazy.
4. Your Linkedin picture is about something else
Anything or anyone that is not you shouldn’t appear in your Linkedin profile picture. Great sceneries, pets, cartoon characters, art work, etc are all terrible choices for a Linkedin profile picture and will most probably make people reject your invitations to connect. If you want to be taken seriously as a professional, keep the cuteness for your private Facebook profile. Again, to gain people’s trust, you have to show them who you are, otherwise they might think you’re hiding something.
5. Your head is awkwardly taking up the entire space
I know we just said that you can’t have a full-body picture, but that doesn’t mean your head should take up the whole space. No one wants to see your pores. Think of passport-like photos when uploading your picture, except with a smile.
6. Your profile picture is a logo
Logos are great pictures to use on company pages not profiles. Your Linkedin profile is about you, not your company or brand.
7. There are two people or more in your picture!
Well, Linkedin is not a place for group pictures. Whether it’s a selfie with a celebrity or a friend, or a picture of you and your dog, no one cares. Keep your favorite Kodak moments to Facebook. YoourLinkedin profile should be all about you and your professional life. Besides, how are we supposed to know which one is you?
8. Your picture is not right
Uploading a poor quality picture as your Linkedin picture could be worse than not uploading one at all. You risk appearing inconsistent if you promise to deliver high quality services while your picture says otherwise. If your picture is out of focus, blurry, pixelated or not cropped properly your profile viewers will probably second guess you.
First impressions are long-lasting, this is why Linkedin gives you one picture to express yourself. Make sure you avoid these very common mistakes and you’ll be on the right track.
