Picking the Perfect LinkedIn Headshot - TK LinkedIn Challenge

Why your profile needs a headshot:

Have you ever received a connection request from a page with no photo? It's unsettling! You're not sure who you're connecting with or if it's a spam page, and sometimes it just doesn't seem worth it to find out.

Humans are visual beings! So adding a headshot to your LinkedIn profile automatically helps you make an impression and reinforces the validity of your page! It increases response and referral rates, and ensures you come off as more likable, trustworthy and friendly.

Tip 1: Choose a photo that looks like you

This might seem like a "duh!" moment, but your headshot should reflect what you look like NOW. Although it may be a lovely picture, your high school prom photo from 4-8 years ago might not be the best selection. Your profile should reflect how you look on a daily basis. If you wear glasses, have dyed your hair, etc update your photo.

Tip 2: Choose a good quality photo

Your LinkedIn profile is a reflection of you, so you always want to put your best foot forward. Avoid small or low resolution images - 400 x 400 pixels should be as low as you go. And don't upload a picture of a picture (ie a university ID or security badge). Instead take a fresh photo in good lighting for your headshot.

Tip 3: Make your face at least 60% of the photo

Even if you're a photographer looking to showcase how excellent a view you can capture with your long range camera lens, it's not the ideal shot for your LinkedIn profile picture. Take or crop your photo from the top of your shoulders, so that your head fills the frame. And make sure that your background isn't distracting and that there isn't anyone else visible in the photo.

Tip 4: Choose the right expression

Your LinkedIn headshot is a part of your personal brand. If you're the tough, no-nonsense Career Coach, it's ok to take a more serious photo. However, smiling in your headshot makes you appear more kind, approachable and competent. Bonus points if you're smiling with teeth! But make sure whatever you're doing feels natural so you don't look uncomfortable in your photo.

Tip 5: Wear your "work" clothes

Every job/industry has a certain standard of dress. If you wear t-shirts, shorts, and sandals to work, it's perfectly fine to take your headshot in that attire. Same story if you're usually in a suit or anything in between. Remember, your headshot is a part of your personal brand so if you are looking to switch into a new industry or become an entrepreneur, make sure your attire reflects that. Solid colors will also help your photo pop and draw more attention to your face.

Tip 6: Have someone else take your photo

Whether it's a professional or a friend, having someone else take your photo can make a big difference. Don't opt for a selfie, which may produce a low quality photo or cause you to pose unnaturally. Instead, have someone else take your photo in front of a non-distracting background in soft natural light. Avoid light that casts shadows on your face (ie fluorescent light or direct sunlight) or may make you look shiny (flash).