Having the right LinkedIn profile photo is an important part of making a good first impression on the professional social media platform. With over 722 million users worldwide, LinkedIn has become the go-to place for networking and exploring career opportunities. Your profile photo acts as your face on the site, so it’s essential that it represents you in the best possible light. But there’s debate around whether it’s advisable to use a more casual photo rather than the traditional headshot. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of having a relaxed LinkedIn profile picture.
What are the requirements for a LinkedIn profile photo?
LinkedIn provides recommendations, rather than strict requirements, for profile photos. Their tips state that you should:
- Use a photo that clearly shows your face
- Use a current photo and update it regularly
- Choose a high quality image with good lighting
- Pick a professional-looking headshot
- Smile and look approachable
- Wear appropriate work attire
- Maintain eye contact with the camera
- Have a simple background
So while LinkedIn suggests a professional headshot, there are no photo regulations you have to adhere to. The platform gives members the freedom to choose a picture they feel represents their personal brand.
Why some people opt for casual LinkedIn photos
Although most users stick with a standard headshot, a growing number are embracing more casual profile pics. There are a few reasons for this:
To stand out
One motivation for choosing a relaxed photo is simply to help your profile stand out among the sea of stiff corporate headshots. An image of you smiling or taking part in a hobby can help you come across as more approachable.
To convey personality
A casual picture can showcase your personality in a way a formal portrait doesn’t. It provides a chance to reveal your interests beyond your career. A travel snapshot, for example, tells people you have a sense of adventure.
To connect with certain audiences
Some professionals serve creative industries where stuffy headshots may be frowned upon. A casual photo may position you better when networking with more offbeat clients and business contacts.
To challenge conventions
Photography norms have changed, with workplaces and events often embracing more casual pictures. Some LinkedIn users feel formal headshots seem outdated and staid. A relaxed profile image asserts they are modern professionals who think outside the box.
Potential advantages of casual LinkedIn photos
There are several potential upsides to bucking the formal headshot tradition with your LinkedIn profile picture:
Makes memorable first impression
A casual photo offers the chance to pique viewers’ interest and be remembered. When you have one of few relaxed profile pics compared to standard portraits, yours could stand out.
Reflects authentic self
Rather than projecting the stereotypical “business” image, a casual photo can provide a glimpse into your real personality and lifestyle. This authenticity can help you attract more compatible connections.
Suggests well-rounded interests
Showcasing leisure pursuits conveys that you are a multi-dimensional person with many talents and passions – not just your job title. This could expand your network reach.
Indicates culture fit
A photo highlighting your participation in similar recreational activities to someone viewing your profile could indicate you’d align well. Shared interests build bonds.
Boosts approachability
A smiling, relaxed pose avoids looking overly stiff, stern or arrogant – pitfalls formal corporate headshots sometimes fall prey to. This may invite more profile views and connection requests.
Sparks conversation
An interesting casual photo provides an easy conversation starter for anyone viewing your profile. They can comment on the activity pictured to break the ice.
Potential risks of casual LinkedIn photos
Using an informal snapshot instead of a pro headshot does come with some possible drawbacks to weigh up:
May damage perceptions of professionalism
Straying too far from business attire in a photo risks looking unprofessional. Certain conservative industries and hiring managers still expect formal headshots.
Can reflect poorly on judgment
An overly wacky, provocative or low-quality casual photo may undermine perceptions of your judgment skills and maturity.
Diminishes personal branding
Without a clear, professional-looking headshot, you lose control over conveying your expertise. Recruiters may pass over your profile if your photo seems inconsistent with the role.
Misrepresents capabilities
A very casual picture could create distance between your real-world capabilities and how hiring managers perceive them based on your image.
Alienates traditionalists
Some more old-school business veterans may frown upon relaxed photos. An informal image could hinder forging connections with traditionalists.
Causes misjudgments
When others can’t see you clearly or professionally dressed, they may make inaccurate judgments about your background, skills and credibility.
Risks seeming inappropriate
Informal snapshots with drinking, smoking, risky activities or controversial subjects may be seen as inappropriate – even if well-intentioned.
Tips for casual LinkedIn photos
If you want to forego the formal headshot, but still appear professional on LinkedIn, follow these tips:
Select a clear photo
Avoid casual pictures that are grainy, poorly lit, far away or blurry. You should be the central focus and your face clearly visible.
Choose tasteful attire
Opt for casual but smart-casual clothing – not overly revealing or sloppy outfits. You want to exude approachability, not unprofessionalism.
Showcase interests appropriately
Share hobbies and interests via your photo, but avoid controversial activities. Pictures featuring alcohol, for example, tend to be frowned upon.
Convey enthusiasm
A big smile, warm expression and positive body language says you’re friendly, upbeat and passionate about what you do.
Use recent photos
Regularly update your profile photo to represent what you look like now. Outdated images undercut professionalism.
Check suitability
Ask trusted colleagues if your casual photo seems appropriate for your industry and role before making it your profile picture.
Pick professional backgrounds
Avoid cluttered settings. Natural landscapes, office desks or blank walls make suitable backdrops.
Show face clearly
Don’t hide behind sunglasses or turned away from the camera. Maintain good eye contact to appear open and approachable.
Examples of casual but professional LinkedIn photos
LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman sets a relaxed example…
Notice his smile, eye contact and outdoor setting that communicates approachability – while still dressing smartly.
Marketing expert Ann Handley looks genuine yet professional in this casual pic…
Her warm expression connects with viewers, and the office background reinforces her executive status.
And entrepreneur Marie Forleo’s vibrant color and enthusiasm make a memorable impression…
Her fun vibe aligns with her brand – though the indoor setting maintains professionalism.
Should you choose a casual LinkedIn profile photo?
The choice between a formal headshot or casual picture for your LinkedIn profile depends on your profession, industry and personal preferences. Follow these guidelines:
- Conservative fields like law, finance and management warrant traditional headshots.
- More creative sectors such as design, media and tech often embrace relaxed photos.
- Ensure casual photos are clear, high-quality and appropriate to avoid misjudgments.
- Use backgrounds that balance approachability and professional settings.
- Regularly update your photo to reflect how you look now.
- Ask trusted colleagues if your casual photo aligns with your brand.
- Weigh up whether standing out from formal headshots could benefit or hinder you.
- Consider using a formal headshot if targeting traditional clients or hiring managers.
The norms around LinkedIn photos are evolving. While formal headshots remain the safe option, a casual but professional photo could work depending on your circumstances. The key is choosing an image that presents you in the best light for your goals.
Conclusion
LinkedIn grants members flexibility over their profile photo selection. While traditional professional headshots are the standard, some are opting for more casual photos. Possible upsides include appearing memorable, approachable and well-rounded. But informal snapshots also risk seeming unprofessional. The key is choosing a high-quality, appropriate image showcasing your authentic self if you forgo a formal portrait. Casual photos can work on LinkedIn, but need thoughtful selection and regular updating. Consider your industry, role and brand image when deciding whether to join the casual profile photo trend.
