The 5 Biggest Mistakes You're Making with Your LinkedIn Profile Picture
Your LinkedIn profile is basically your online business card, right? Well, guess what steals the show on that card? Yep, it's your profile pic! I mean, who wouldn't want to put their best face forward in the world's biggest virtual networking opportunity? Now, as someone who's seriously gooood (ahem * humble brag *) at making everyday people look like rockstars in their photos, I've seen a LOT of, let's say, 'memorable' LinkedIn photos—just not for the reasons you'd want. 😬
So how about we unawkward your LinkedIn photo and celebrate the heck out of your professional self. I've got the down-low on the five LinkedIn pic mistakes you might be making and how to Boss them the heck up!
1. Using a Selfie
Let's be honest: A selfie rarely captures the professionalism and authenticity that you can bring to a job or business relationship. Selfies are for Snapchat, not LinkedIn.
Fix: Invest in a professional headshot that showcases your unique personality while elevating your presence in your industry.
2. Poor Lighting
Bad lighting can result in a photo where you're either washed out or shrouded in mysterious shadows. Either way, it's a missed opportunity to present yourself in the best possible light—literally.
Fix: Great lighting works wonders. Professional photographers like myself know how to harness the best light to make you look drop-dead hecking RADIANT.
3. Outdated Photo
Using a ten-year-old photo might give a misleading impression of who you are today. Authenticity is key in professional relationships.
Fix: Update your profile picture every 1-2 years or whenever you undergo a significant change in your professional role or appearance.
4. Inconsistent Branding
Your LinkedIn photo should align with your professional persona and the industry you're in. A mismatch can cause confusion.
Fix: Ensure that your LinkedIn photo harmonizes with the rest of your online professional branding, from your resume to your personal website. Or if you are refreshing your brand, then consider investing in a full personal branding session so you can update all your brand touchpoints.
5. Ignoring the Background
A cluttered or inappropriate background distracts from the main focus: you.
Fix: Opt for a neutral or relevant background. In my Wellington studio, we have the luxury of choosing from a variety of clean interior lifestyle and studio settings.
Your LinkedIn pic isn't just a cute selfie; it's your digital handshake, your virtual "Hey, I've got this!" to the world.
So here’s the thing. Getting a pro portrait isn't about vanity—it's about showing up as your best self and being like, "Yeah, I'm the full package." Trust me, it's a career glow-up that's a priceless investment in yourself!
You don't have to settle for being just another face in the digital crowd.
Feeling a bit daunted?
No worries! Reach out and let's chat about tailoring a personal branding photo session that celebrates the heck out of YOU. Or, if you are just looking for a headshot or three, then my special Headshot Day option is especially for you.
Together, we'll make your LinkedIn profile not just good, but absolutely unforgettable! 💥
