Whether to smile or not in your LinkedIn profile picture is an important decision that requires careful consideration. On one hand, smiling makes you appear more approachable and friendly. However, some experts argue that not smiling projects a more professional image for certain careers. There are pros and cons to both approaches.
The Case for Smiling
Here are some potential benefits of smiling in your LinkedIn photo:
Appears Friendly and Approachable
Smiling makes you look more warm, inviting and personable. Especially for client-facing or networking focused roles, a smile can help you connect with others more easily. Studies show that people perceive smiling individuals as more trustworthy, helpful and competent.
Reflects Positivity
A smile conveys confidence, optimism and enthusiasm. These are attractive qualities in any candidate or colleague. Smiles are associated with happiness and satisfaction. A smiling photo indicates you have a positive attitude.
Invites Interaction
Humans are biologically wired to respond favorably to smiles. A smiling face encourages others to engage with your profile and react positively to you. Smiles build rapport quickly. A smile makes you more approachable.
Stands Out
Most LinkedIn headshots feature non-smiling facial expressions. A smiling photo will make your profile picture distinct and memorable. It offers a point of difference that can drive more profile views and connections.
Potential Drawbacks of Smiling
However, there are some potential downsides to consider with a smiling LinkedIn profile picture:
May Appear Less Professional
For some formal roles (lawyer, banker, etc.), a smile may undermine perceptions of gravitas and seriousness. It really depends on your profession and the impression you want to cultivate.
Can Look Artificial
Not everyone looks natural or authentic when posing for photos with a smile. An awkward, forced smile could undermine perceptions of your confidence or competence.
More Common
As mentioned, most LinkedIn headshots feature smiles. A non-smiling photo stands out more and offers more novelty.
Focus on Appearance Over Substance
There is a risk that viewers will focus more on your smile/looks than your skills, experience and qualifications. For some, a smiling photo may seem overly casual.
The Case for Not Smiling
Here are some potential upsides of a non-smiling LinkedIn profile picture:
Projects Professionalism
A serious demeanor comes across as more professional, formal and business-like for certain roles. Think lawyers, bankers, executives, etc. Not smiling conveys gravitas and depth.
Focuses Attention on Content
With no smile to react to, viewers will spend more time evaluating your profile content vs. appearance. This puts focus on your credentials, skills and experience.
Stands Out
As mentioned earlier, most LinkedIn profile photos feature smiles. A non-smiling picture will differentiate you from the crowd.
Avoids Artificiality
Some people don’t photograph well when forced to smile. A non-smiling picture likely reflects your natural demeanor. There is no risk of an off-putting fake smile.
Potential Negatives of Not Smiling
However, forgoing a smile also has some possible drawbacks:
May Seem Cold or Unfriendly
A non-smiling facial expression could be interpreted as stern, uninviting or aloof. This risks undermining networking and client relationships.
Lacks Positivity
A serious demeanor conveys neutrality at best. It misses an opportunity to project the optimism, enthusiasm and warmth that a natural smile reflects.
Goes Against Norms
Conforming to expected social norms can build quick rapport and likability. Defying the expectation of a smiling photo risks inadvertently distancing yourself.
Forgets Importance of Approachability
For client-facing, networking or collaborative roles, being perceived as friendly and approachable is pivotal. A smile helps achieve this crucial first impression.
Key Considerations
So should you smile or not? There are some key factors to consider:
Your Profession and Industry
Some fields prioritize professionalism and seriousness; others favor approachability and warmth. Assess conventions and impressions.
Your Personal Brand
Do you want to cultivate a polished, formal brand? Or an open, casual and conversational presence? Match to your goals.
Authenticity
Choose the option that feels most natural and representative of you. An authentic style builds trust.
Photo Quality
If you don’t photograph well smiling, then avoid it. A bad smile is worse than neutral expression.
Gather Opinions
Poll colleagues, friends and profile viewers. See if certain impressions come through. Iterate based on feedback.
Best Practices
To maximize the impact of your profile photo, keep these tips in mind:
Use a Professional Photographer
Invest in a high-quality, flattering photo. Amateur selfies don’t send the right message.
Maintain Eye Contact
Looking directly at the camera conveys confidence and connection. Avoid glancing away.
Watch Your Background
Opt for a neutral background free of distractions. A professional headshot looks best.
Craft Your Expression
Focus on projecting the impression you want to achieve. Be purposeful with your facial expression.
Test Options
Take some variations smiling and non-smiling. Try different poses and styles. See what resonates.
Refresh Regularly
Update your photo every few years. Your look and brand will evolve over time.
Examples
Let’s look at some examples of successful smiling and non-smiling LinkedIn profile pictures:
Smiling Examples
Photo | Analysis |
---|---|
Warm smile creates an approachable first impression for this nonprofit executive director. Important for fundraising. | |
Big, energetic smile reflects the positivity and passion this marketing professional wants to convey. | |
Genuine, warm smile plays up the friendliness of this client-facing sales leader. |
Non-Smiling Examples
Photo | Analysis |
---|---|
Serious expression projects an air of competency and professionalism desired for this executive. | |
Neutral, focused gaze fits brand this investment advisor wants to cultivate as calm and analytical. | |
Serious demeanor projects an air of gravitas and competency for this attorney. |
Conclusion
There are good arguments on both sides of whether to smile or not in a LinkedIn profile photo. The right choice depends on your profession, personal brand and what impression you want to cultivate. Smiling conveys warmth and approachability; a serious expression projects professionalism and competence. Consider your industry norms, your goals and what feels most authentic. With high quality photos and purposeful facial expressions, you can send the right message with your picture.