Your LinkedIn photo is one of the first things recruiters see when they visit your profile. So, you want to present yourself professionally so you can make a great first impression. Here are some quick tips for taking the perfect LinkedIn photo...
Use a current photo of yourself.
Don’t use a photo from four years ago just because you think you look good in it. Make sure your photo is up-to-date and accurately represents you today.
Don't have other people in your photo.
When there are multiple people in a photo, an employer might not know which one is you. Make sure you’re the only person in the picture. Further, don’t crop people out of your photo - it looks tacky and unprofessional.
Make sure your photo is well-lit and not blurry.
Don’t take your photo in a dark area and make sure it’s clear. Remember, this is your first impression. You want to make sure your photo is of good quality. If it’s not, you risk employers assuming you don’t care about your professional image.
Don't make goofy faces or gestures.
Save the duck faces and peace signs for Facebook. Your LinkedIn photo should be a professional headshot. Think about it this way: If you met your dream employer at a networking event and wanted to make a good first impression, would you make a duck face during your introduction? Probably not.
Look directly at the camera.
Make sure you look right at the camera when you take your photo. If you’re looking away, employer and recruiters might have a hard time seeing your face. Further, make sure you smile! You’ll appear more approachable.
If you need more help with your LinkedIn strategy, book an appointment with Longwood University Career Services to work with a career coach to create a profile that truly impresses employers.
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