Whether or not to smile in your LinkedIn profile picture is a common question among LinkedIn users. Some experts recommend smiling to appear more approachable, while others suggest looking serious and professional. There are good arguments on both sides of this debate. Ultimately, the choice comes down to your personal preference and what image you want to portray on LinkedIn. This article will examine the pros and cons of smiling versus not smiling in your LinkedIn photo and provide tips for taking a flattering, effective profile picture.
The Case for Smiling
Here are some potential benefits of smiling in your LinkedIn profile picture:
Appears Friendly and Approachable
A smiling photo makes you seem more warm, friendly and approachable. Studies show that people perceive smiling individuals as more likeable, trusting and competent. This can help foster connections on LinkedIn where first impressions are important. Smiling may encourage others to connect and engage with your profile.
Reflects Positivity
A smile conveys confidence, optimism and enthusiasm. You appear at ease and comfortable interacting with others. This positivity can attract networking contacts and reflect well on you professionally. People tend to prefer interacting with happy, upbeat individuals.
Humanizes Your Brand
A genuine smile can add a human touch to your personal brand. It balances professionalism with a bit of personality. While LinkedIn is business focused, showing your human side helps you stand out and be memorable. A smile makes you relatable.
Invites Approachability
Some hiring managers and recruiters admit they perceive smiling headshots as more inviting and approachable. A smile signals you are open to connecting and having a conversation. This can enhance your approachability for career opportunities.
The Case Against Smiling
Here are some potential downsides to avoid with smiling LinkedIn photos:
May Appear Less Professional
While friendliness has advantages, some career experts argue an overly smiley photo can undermine your professional image. Large smiles in headshots are fine for personal accounts but more serious expressions convey professionalism for career networking.
Not Always Genuine
LinkedIn members see many overly broad grins that frankly look artificial and staged. A disingenuous smile lacks authenticity and undermines your professional credibility. People can tell when a smile doesn’t reach your eyes.
Undermines Seriousness
Certain careers and industries lean toward stoic formalness in portraits. For example, attorneys, professors and executives typically avoid big smiles in headshots. Their serious expressions convey wisdom, focus and solemnity. Smiling can lessen that gravitas.
Cultural Differences
In some cultures, smiling photos are viewed as inappropriate for business contexts. Restrained expressions are preferred in countries like Germany, Russia, China and Japan. Do your research if applying for international jobs.
Tips for Taking a LinkedIn Profile Picture
Here are some best practices for choosing between smiling and not smiling:
Tailor to Your Goals
Consider your aims on LinkedIn. If networking, look friendly. If job seeking, lean professional. Adjust your smile accordingly. Your photo should align with your brand and objectives.
Look Genuine
Don’t force an inauthentic looking smile just because you think you should. A slight smirk is better than a fake grin. Authenticity should be your main goal.
Use a Headshot
Snap a close headshot rather than full body. Cropping in on your face makes expressions more visible and impactful. Have a photographer take a quality portrait.
Maintain Eye Contact
Look directly at the camera with a level gaze and relaxed shoulders. This projects confidence and trustworthiness. Make eye contact feel natural, not stern.
Use Flattering Lighting
Soft, even lighting minimizes shadows or glare on your face. Outdoor shade creates nice diffusion. Professional photographers light effectively.
Keep Teeth Unobstructed
If you opt to smile, make sure nothing blocks your teeth. Things like beverages, fingers, or lips covering teeth affect your smile. Keep your mouth clear.
Consider Light Smirks
A slight upward turn of the lips avoids excessive smile intensity. A light smirk hints at positivity without the full Cheshire cat grin.
Crop With Purpose
Don’t cut off parts of your face. Leave space above your head but frame from mid-chest up. Check that your eyes/smile are centered.
Examples of LinkedIn Profile Pictures
Here are examples of effective LinkedIn profile photos featuring a range of smile styles:
| Photo Example | Style |
|---|---|
| Big genuine smile showing teeth | |
| Closed mouth smile | |
| Slight smirk | |
| Serious expression |
Conclusion
Deciding whether to smile in your LinkedIn profile picture ultimately depends on your personal preferences and professional goals. While some situations call for smiles to appear friendly, other contexts warrant a more serious demeanor. Use a slight smirk or subtle smile if you want to strike a balance. Most importantly, look genuine. Choose lighting and poses that flatter you. Experiment to determine what style best suits your brand and objectives. With an authentic, high-quality headshot, you can craft an engaging presence on LinkedIn.