If you're in the middle of looking for a job, you want your Linkedin profile to be updated. Beyond having your job history up to date, having a nice professional profile picture can make a difference. In this article, we'll discuss the right way to take a headshot for your Linkedin profile photo and where to get it done.
What should I wear in my Linkedin profile picture?
Your Linkedin photo is likely the first impression a hiring manager or recruiter will see of you. Obviously, it's important to make a good impression, so be selective. Choosing the right image starts with what you look like in the photo.
Your outfit should be simple and neat. Avoid clothing that is too revealing. You don't want to show too much skin.
You'll want to dress in something that photographs well and makes you look like a professional. Make sure you aren't wearing anything with slogans or tears. Think of the type of outfit you would wear to an interview.
Where should I take my Linkedin profile picture?
Pick a spot that you will look natural in. You want your face to be the focus of the image, so avoid a busy background. Find a simple spot that you feel comfortable taking a few photos in. Use your camera to take some test shots of the area.
That way, you'll have a good idea of how it will look. While you want your face to fill most of the image, the background will show a bit.
Who should take my Linkedin profile picture?
Not everyone can afford to pay a photographer to take a professional headshot, but don't worry. There are a lot of people who can take your photo and make it look professional. If you know someone with a good camera, ask them to take your headshot for your profile photo.
Using a high-quality camera vs a smartphone can make a really big difference. Having a close friend take your profile image may help it look more natural.
If you do hire a person to take your headshots, research their reviews. Make sure it's a person you can trust and will feel comfortable with. There are a lot of ads on social media for photographers, so try checking there.
Companies will sometimes offer their employees a free headshot. If you have the opportunity to get a professional photo taken, don't pass it up. It's an easy and cheap way to update your Linkedin photo.
If you do decide to take one yourself, you can make it look better with sites like PhotoFeeler.
Tips for taking a great Linkedin profile photo
- Practice your smile
- Make sure your face is clean
- Don't put too much makeup on your face
- Look natural and approachable
- Never use selfies as your Linkedin photo
- Recent college graduates can use a professional graduation photo if the background is appropriate
- Take a few different photos so you can pick the best one
- Make your face the main part of the image
Before you upload your new profile photo, ask a friend how it looks. It's always a good idea to share it with someone and get some feedback.
It's important to use a recent headshot. Make sure you look like yourself in your professional photo.
Think about what you need in order to get your perfect photo. If you spend a little time planning it out, it will come out even better.
You want to appear comfortable in front of the camera, and even though taking a professional photo for a social networking site like Linkedin can be a bit of an ordeal if you've never done it before, being prepared will make it reasonably easy. Remember, getting it right could be the thing that gets you noticed online by your next employer.
