Why is your LinkedIn profile photo so important?
Your LinkedIn profile photo is one of the first things people notice when they view your profile. It creates a lasting first impression and can impact whether someone connects with you or clicks through to learn more about your background. According to LinkedIn, profiles with photos receive up to 21 times more profile views than those without. So putting some thought into your photo and how you pose can make a big difference in how you present yourself professionally.
What makes a good LinkedIn profile photo?
A strong LinkedIn profile photo is:
- A clear headshot of just you (no sunglasses)
- High quality with good lighting
- Professional (avoid casual snapshots, selfies, etc.)
- Friendly and approachable (smile!)
- Recent and accurate portrayal of how you look now
You want the photo to communicate that you are trustworthy, likable, and competent. Picking an appropriate outfit and background, making good eye contact, and smiling warmly can help achieve this.
How should you pose and present yourself?
Here are some tips for posing and presenting yourself in your LinkedIn profile photo:
Posture
Stand or sit up straight to convey confidence. Don’t slouch or lean. Keep your chin parallel to the ground.
Eye contact
Look directly at the camera lens with a steady, friendly gaze and pleasant facial expression. This creates a feeling of engagement and approachability. Avoid looking away or down.
Head Position
Hold your head straight or tilted slightly to one side. Tilting your head down makes you appear less confident.
Smile
Smile naturally so you appear warm, trustworthy and approachable. A slight smile is better than grinning widely. Avoid tight or pursed lips.
Hands and Arms
Let your arms hang relaxed at your sides for a candid look. Or rest your hands gently clasped on your lap. Avoid crossed arms, hands in pockets, or holding props.
Outfit
Wear professional attire in a solid color or subtle pattern. Solid colors photograph best. Avoid loud prints or distracting accessories. Keep clothing neat and pressed.
Hair and Makeup
Style your hair neatly. Simple makeup can help you look polished and put together. Avoid heavy makeup that looks artificial on camera.
Background
A solid neutral or muted background works best. Avoid cluttered or distracting backgrounds. A professional office setting is ideal.
Lighting
Even, natural lighting on your face is ideal. Avoid shadows or harsh lighting. Position yourself facing a window for flattering illumination.
Camera Position
Place the camera at your eye level or slightly above. Shoot straight on rather than from low or high angles.
Focus and Quality
Make sure the photo is properly focused and not too pixelated. High resolution ensures you look crisp and clear.
Cropping
Get a close crop of just your head and shoulders. Leave more space on the side you are facing.
Tips for looking friendly and approachable
To look warm and inviting in your LinkedIn profile photo:
- Make eye contact and smile naturally
- Relax your face – no clenched jaws or strained expressions
- Imagine you are greeting someone you like
- Think of something that makes you smile before the photo is taken
- Focus on connecting with the viewer, not the camera
- Convey confidence through good posture
- Tilt your chin down slightly and gaze upwards
- Position yourself facing the light source
- Apply subtle makeup to accentuate your eyes and skin tone
Projecting warmth and approachability makes people want to connect with you and learn more after viewing your profile.
Common LinkedIn photo mistakes to avoid
Don’t let a bad profile photo undermine your professional image on LinkedIn. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Using an outdated photo
Old photos don’t accurately represent what you look like now. Always use a current photo.
Appearing unprofessional
Avoid casual settings or attire. Dress as you would for an interview.
Wearing sunglasses
Sunglasses hide your eyes and come across as too casual. Keep them off.
Seeming distracted
Maintain eye contact and don’t look away from the camera.
Cropping incorrectly
Don’t crop too tightly or cut off parts of your head or body. Leave more space in front.
Using group shots or selfies
LinkedIn photos should only show you. Group shots are confusing. Selfies often look unprofessional.
Appearing unapproachable
Don’t cross your arms or make stern facial expressions. Smile warmly.
Having cluttered or inappropriate backgrounds
Backgrounds should be simple, neutral and professional.
Being poorly lit
Ensure even, flattering lighting on your face. Avoid shadows.
Tips for looking confident and authoritative
To project confidence and authority in your LinkedIn profile photo:
- Stand tall with your shoulders back
- Lift your chin slightly and don’t tilt your head down
- Maintain steady eye contact with the camera
- Relax your face – don’t purse your lips or frown
- Wear professional attire in dark neutral colors
- Style your hair neatly groomed
- Trim or groom any facial hair neatly
- Limit accessories and jewelry
- Pose with your arms at your sides
- Project energy and positivity through your expression
- Imagine your power pose as you get your photo taken
Exuding confidence and authority makes you seem seasoned and influential. It can help you connect with the right people.
How to look natural and avoid stiffness
You want to look professional yet natural in your LinkedIn profile photo. Avoid looking artificially stiff or rigid.
Here are some tips:
- Don’t clench your jaw or force a smile
- Shift your weight slightly from side to side
- Don’t hold your body perfectly still – allow natural movement
- Imagine you are greeting someone you like
- Let your expression flow naturally from that feeling
- Focus on connecting with the viewer, not the camera itself
- Do multiple takes and select the best, most natural looking one
- Loosen up any tightness in your face, shoulders or hands
- Tilt your chin down slightly and gaze upwards
- Turn slightly to one side rather than straight on
- Use window light rather than harsh studio lighting
Appearing relaxed and natural makes you seem friendly, approachable and trustworthy.
How to check if you have a good LinkedIn profile photo
To evaluate if your LinkedIn profile photo successfully presents you in a professional light, check the following:
- It is a current, accurate representation of how you look
- You are the only person in the photo
- You are dressed professionally
- You have good posture and confidence
- Your facial expression is pleasant and authentic
- Your smile looks natural, not forced
- Your eyes look bright, engaged and welcoming
- There is nothing distracting in the background
- The lighting flatters your face
- The image is high quality and properly focused
- You would feel proud sharing this photo professionally
Also consider feedback from others. Ask colleagues, mentors and peers if your photo presents you in the best possible light. Be open to taking new photos if needed. A great LinkedIn photo can make a huge difference in advancing your career.
Conclusion
Your LinkedIn profile photo is key to making a great first impression and portraying your professional brand. Invest time finding a flattering, high quality headshot where you look confident, natural and approachable. Carefully consider your posing, expression, lighting and attire. Ask others for objective feedback. And remember to update your photo regularly as you evolve throughout your career. A thoughtful, engaging profile photo enables you to put your best face forward to new connections and opportunities.
