Yes, it does! LinkedIn, like any other social media platform, suggests for users to have a profile picture. But how is selecting your LinkedIn photo different from platforms like Instagram and Facebook, and is it really that important? Well, for one, if you’re on LinkedIn, you’re most likely seeking out future employers and connections with regard to your career in some way, shape, or form—not just posting for your friends to see. With it being a professional networking platform, your profile picture serves as your first impression for potential employers. So, in short, yes, the photo matters!
“14 times more visits & 36 times more chances to receive a message with a professional headshot.”
Meero Team
Are you wondering why your LinkedIn profile isn’t receiving as much attention as you think it should? Even with all your credentials and experience? It really just may come down to your photo (unfortunately). Profiles with a professional-looking profile picture obtain more visits and messages from potential employers than those with less-than-great photos of blank circles. Below I’ll explore what to do/not to do when choosing your LinkedIn photo.
Choose a high-resolution photo. If your photo comes out looking blurry when uploading it, it’s best to choose another one. The typical size for your photo should be 400×400 pixels, anything smaller will most likely blur.
Use good lighting. In addition to the photo being high-resolution, lighting is important! Lighting can entirely alter how you look in a photo. Consider using natural indirect light.
Make sure it’s a headshot. Choosing a photo where you can barely see yourself in the already small frame doesn’t allow for employers to see you and for you to make a first impression.
You should be the only one in the shot. Make sure you’re the center of attention in your own profile picture! Your potential employers and connections want to see you, not you with someone else.
Dress appropriately in the photo. This might be an evident statement, but dress professional when professionals are viewing your profile! It’s also important to note that your photo should reflect the job you’re applying for. For example, it might not be a good idea to wear a chef’s uniform if you’re applying to marketing jobs.
Don’t have your profile picture be a selfie! If you don’t have access to a camera and only have your phone, have someone else take the photo for you. If that’s not possible, you can use your phone’s camera timer.
Don’t choose to be in front of a busy background. This distracts people from you. If you want to showcase something cool you can always do that in your banner, not your photo.
Unfortunately, your profile on LinkedIn isn’t solely dependent on your work experience. Employers and those wanting to make connections tend to visit profiles with professional headshots or good quality headshots. Make a good impression with your profile picture and get those connections and messages from potential employers!
