Attracting potential employers via Linkedin

what your linkedin profile picture says about you

Thumbtack LinkedIn Portrait Session Client Janine.

---

You may be wondering if you really need a professional portrait for your LinkedIn profile, but the research shows that members with a good strong image attract 11 times more inquiries than profiles that do not have pictures (http://expandedramblings.com/index.php/by-the-numbers-a-few-important-linkedin-stats/#.U8LW4haCVFw). A great profile picture shows to people immediately that you're serious, and willing to go the extra mile to connect and create new networking opportunities. For a very small investment you can make a maximum impact on your audience. Here are some tips for the best profile image.

The top three REQUIREMENTS for linkedin images

1) Your image needs to be the correct size. 

Images should be square. If you do not have editing software, ask your photographer to size your chosen profile image for you. I include this service for every LinkedIn portrait session. 

LinkedIn's help desk advises image sizing as:

• 200x200 pixels at the minimum and 500x500 pixels at the maximum
• file size should be no larger than 4MB
• file should be in JPG, GIF, or PNG format

---

2) Your image should be professional.

What does that mean? A professional image? It really is up to personal interpretation however there are a few guidelines you should follow. 

Your image should have you "looking the part". Know your audience expectations. If you're an insurance agent or attorney, a suit and tie is acceptable attire. If you're a freelance guitar player you may want to consider an image of you performing. You're representing your personal brand, developed skills and talents. 

Head shot client AON Insurance. Office session.

Here are a couple of rules to follow for your LinkedIn image:

• Do not use an old photo. I recommend a new head shot every 6 months. You want to be easily recognizable in your image. When you meet someone for the first time face to face you don't want to surprise them with a completely different look in reality. 
• Use a photo of only you. Not a photo of your family, garden, kids or cat. If you're being photographed outdoors, keep the background simple and as minimal as possible. 
• Your image should include your head and your shoulders. Much like the examples provided in this post, ensure you're easily recognizable and in focus. 
• Correct lighting is critical for your photo. If you cannot afford to hire a professional for your photo, try to use natural light either early in the morning or mid to late afternoon. I am currently running a special on LinkedIn portraiture for just $75 all summer long. 

---

3) Your image should be approachable

You want people to engage in your content on LinkedIn and an approachable image will do just that. Be welcoming in your expression and smile. If you're uncomfortable in front of the camera a professional photographer should be an option for you to consider. I hear a lot "I don't take good photos" which means that whomever is taking your photograph hasn't done their best to make sure you're relaxed and comfortable so you can project that feeling. A good professional photographer will help you feel relaxed and confident in front of the camera. 

Thumbtack LinkedIn Portrait session client My Lee.

Here are a couple of tips to help you achieve an approachable photograph

• Smile! This seems obvious, however this means a natural smile. I'll say something ridiculous to a client to get them to laugh or smile naturally in order to capture that radiance. 
• Wear plain clothing, nothing heavily patterned or brightly colored such as neons or plaids. If you choose an accessory ensure that it's simple, and doesn't detract the eye from the face. 
• Try to be relaxed and confident. Think positive and that will resonate in your image. 
• If you're not great with make-up application consider a pro. Otherwise keep your application simple, and use a setting spray to ensure that your application remains on your face for the duration of your photo session. I recommend Graftobian's setting spray ($7.99 for 2oz www.graftobian.com) 
• Keep retouching to a minimum. A professional portrait for LinkedIn shouldn't contain a lot of blur or other "retouching". You want to avoid a "Glamour Shot". Also if you've got a mole on your right cheek, it should remain in the image. Again once you meet your potential employer you don't want to give your interviewer any surprises in person. This may cause them to wonder "what else you're hiding". 

Once you have your edits

After you've received your images from the photographer have a trusted friend or co-worker help you choose which image makes you look the most relaxed and approachable. Once you've decided on the image that best represents you and your brand, upload it right away! Start making new connections and perhaps land your dream job! 

If you have any questions please comment or email me directly. Good luck on your job search and I would be delighted to capture your next profile image.