Your professional headshot can make all the difference, because profiles with a quality image get more attention.
Most people say they don't judge on appearances – but they do. People learn more through images than they do through words, so having a profile picture on LinkedIn can make a massive difference to how you're perceived and how many people click and connect. You don't even need to spend a fortune on hiring a professional photographer, you can get a perfect profile picture by yourself.
For starters, you need to dress smart and look well-groomed. This is the version of you that you want fellow professionals and potential recruiters to see, so don your best work outfit and look the part. Since LinkedIn pictures are condensed to a thumbnail, you'll want to just capture your face, neck and the top part of your shoulders, but people will still take in your hair, what they can see of your clothes and your beard or makeup.
In an ideal world, you'll have a friend or family member who can help out. You should find someone who can bring out a natural smile, because most people can see through the forced grin. If they take a number of shots, pick out a handful you're happy with and get feedback from the people closest to you – they know you best and know which image best reflects who you are.
If there's nobody you trust to handle a camera, selfies are perfectly acceptable these days. Whether taken on your laptop webcam or on your phone, get plenty of shots and choose the one which you're most comfortable uploading.
Remember, keep it simple, keep it professional and use it across all your business social media.
\
People really do judge on appearances
Dress professionally and look well-groomed
Just photograph face down to shoulders
Ask someone close for help or take a selfie
Keep it simple and use it on all business social media
