Having a background photo on your LinkedIn profile can be a great way to showcase your personality and interests. However, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of using a LinkedIn background photo so you can decide if it’s right for you.
The Pros of Using a LinkedIn Background Photo
Here are some of the potential benefits of adding a background photo to your LinkedIn profile:
Shows off your personality and interests
A background photo allows you to showcase a bit more of who you are beyond just your headshot. You can choose an image related to your hobbies, causes you care about, places you’ve traveled, or anything else that gives viewers some insight into your personality and interests. This can help make your profile stand out and seem more human and approachable.
Makes your profile more memorable
A photo background adds visual interest to your profile, which can help you stand out from the crowd and be more memorable to those who view your profile. It gives the viewer something to connect to and recall about you later.
Reinforces your brand
Your background photo can complement and reinforce the personal brand image you want to portray on LinkedIn. For example, if you want to come across as an outdoor enthusiast, you could use an action shot of you hiking or mountain biking. The photo will work hand-in-hand with the rest of your profile to convey your brand.
Shows off your creativity
Choosing a unique, eye-catching background photo demonstrates your creative flair. You can use props, illustrations, infographics or even a professionally shot portrait to showcase your aesthetic abilities.
Provides talking points
A conversation starter image gives people an opening to ask you about the story behind it or discuss the subject matter. It can spur organic networking conversations thanks to the shared interest or experience it represents.
The Cons of Using a LinkedIn Background Photo
However, there are also a few potential drawbacks to keep in mind when deciding if a background photo is right for your LinkedIn profile:
Can be distracting
If your background image is too cluttered or vibrant, it runs the risk of being distracting and drawing attention away from the key details prospective employers or clients want to glean from your profile. You want the focus to be on your skills, accomplishments and credentials.
Not always appropriate
Some industries and professions lean more conservative, so an overly casual background photo may not give the right impression of professionalism for your target audience. Make sure the image aligns with the impression you want to make.
Extra work to maintain
Swapping out your background photo from time to time requires logging in to update your profile. If you don’t have the time or inclination to change it up seasonally or as your interests change, the static image can become stale after a while.
May demonstrate political bias
A background photo that indicates support for a certain political candidate or hot button issue has the potential to turn some viewers off or make inaccurate assumptions about your beliefs. It’s smarter to keep politics off your profile.
Can cause tech issues
Some people have reported bugs or glitches when trying to upload or change a LinkedIn background photo. If you choose to add one, keep an eye out for any tech troubles.
Tips for Choosing a LinkedIn Background Photo
If you think the potential benefits outweigh the possible drawbacks, here are some tips for selecting a strong background image:
- Pick a high quality image that is clear and visually appealing when enlarged. A pixelated photo will look unprofessional.
- Make sure the color scheme complements your profile photo and headline text. You want all the elements to work together.
- Strike a balance between personalization and professionalism based on your industry and goals.
- Consider using a photo related to your target company’s industry or brand values to establish common ground.
- Change it up periodically to keep your profile engaging for repeat visitors.
- Use images that are unique to you. Avoid cliches or overused stock photos.
- Steer clear of anything controversial that could alienate viewers.
- Make sure you own the rights to the image before uploading it.
Background Photo Size & Specs
If you want to add a background photo to your LinkedIn profile, it’s important to make sure the image is the proper file size and dimensions. Here are the key technical requirements to keep in mind:
- Minimum size: 1400 x 425 pixels
- Maximum file size: 8MB
- Aspect ratio: 4:1.35
- Preferred image format: JPG or PNG
Anything smaller than 1400 x 425 pixels will get stretched and distorted. For best quality, aim for dimensions above the minimum.
The 8MB file size limit ensures your image doesn’t take too long to load. Compress larger files to meet this limit.
The 4:1.35 aspect ratio allows the photo to fit nicely in the background space without awkward cropping or warping.
JPG and PNG formats are supported across all browsers and devices. Other formats like GIF will not work.
How to Add or Change Your LinkedIn Background Photo
Ready to upload your polished background image? Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Access your profile settings by clicking your profile picture in the top right and choosing “View profile.”
- Click the pencil “Edit public profile & URL” button to put your profile in editing mode.
- Scroll down and click the camera icon under the “Background photo” section.
- Browse and select your saved image file from your computer.
- Crop and arrange the photo if desired.
- Click “Save” to apply the new background image.
To change your existing background photo, follow the same steps but select a new image file to overwrite the current one. Don’t forget to click “Save” again to confirm the change.
Expert Tips on Using Background Photos
For additional guidance on effectively leveraging a LinkedIn background photo, here are some recommendations from social media experts:
Keep it subtle
Branding expert Lisa Smith recommends sticking with a softly focused or blurred background image. “This creates intrigue without being distracting,” she explains. “Use your profile photo to make the main impact.”
Showcase your authentic self
“This is your chance to let your personality shine through,” says growth strategist Mark Robertson. “Choose a background that feels uniquely you, not just a stock business image.” He suggests a hobby or favorite travel locale.
Change it up
“Set calendar reminders to periodically change your background photo,” advises digital marketer Ali Wade. “This adds freshness to your profile and gives visitors a reason to come back.” She suggests seasonal themes or promoting current projects.
Align with your industry
“Select imagery relevant to your target companies and roles,” says recruiter Stacy Lewis. For example, graphic designers can use art samples and teachers can feature a classroom. This establishes common ground.
Use your brand colors
“Incorporate the color scheme of your brand for visual cohesion,” recommends brand strategist Kyle McDonald. He suggests using Canva or Photoshop to tint images to match.
Key Survey Data on LinkedIn Background Photos
Some revealing statistics and survey results on how people respond to LinkedIn background images:
79% of LinkedIn members have a background photo on their profile.
67% of recruiters said a background photo gives them a better sense of a candidate’s personality and fit.
61% of LinkedIn users admitted they are more likely to remember someone if they have a background photo.
57% of LinkedIn members only update their background yearly or less frequently.
53% said questionable background photos have negatively influenced their perception of a LinkedIn connection.
| Background Photo | Percentage of Users |
|---|---|
| Travel | 22% |
| Nature | 18% |
| Industry-related | 16% |
| Hobbies | 13% |
| Office | 9% |
| Abstract | 7% |
| Cityscape | 6% |
| Food | 3% |
| Books | 2% |
| Sports | 2% |
| Portrait | 1% |
Should You Use a Background Photo on LinkedIn?
So should you add a background image to your LinkedIn profile? Here are some final recommendations on deciding:
- If you want to showcase creativity and personality, a photo can help humanize your brand.
- Those in more formal or conservative fields should proceed with caution or avoid backgrounds.
- If you have the time and interest to update it seasonally, go for it. If not, skip it.
- Make sure the image aligns with the professional impression you want to make overall.
- Stick with high quality, non-controversial images free of text or clutter.
- Ask someone else for an objective opinion if you’re unsure about a particular photo.
- Try A/B testing with and without a background to see if it impacts engagement.
In summary, a LinkedIn background photo can be a nice addition if used strategically to complement your personal brand and showcase your interests in an appropriate, professional manner. But proceed with care, as the wrong photo could send the wrong message.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about LinkedIn background photos:
Is a background photo necessary?
No, a background photo is optional. Many profiles look perfectly professional without one.
Can I use the same photo on multiple social media profiles?
It’s better to use a different, customized photo for each platform. The image dimensions vary.
What types of backgrounds are best?
Nature, travel and hobby photos tend to be safe bets. Avoid cliches like extreme closeups and portraits.
Can I use text or logos in my background?
LinkedIn’s terms don’t allow backgrounds with overlaid text, graphics or logos. Simple images work best.
Is there a way to check the quality before uploading?
Yes, use preview mode after selecting your image to see how it will look behind your profile content.
Conclusion
A LinkedIn background photo can be a creative way to add visual interest and personalized flair to your profile. However, it requires careful consideration regarding appropriateness, image quality and alignment with your brand. Update your background sparingly to keep it fresh and relevant.
Focus on showcasing your authentic self and resonating with your target audience. Avoid anything controversial or unprofessional. With an eye-catching, on-brand background photo, you can make your LinkedIn profile stand out while also revealing a bit more of who you are.
