LinkedIn has become a powerhouse professional network with over 360 million members. To make the most of this professional marketing platform and to stand out from the crowd rapidly, it is critical to have the right pictures that are not only appealing professionally but also reflect credibility.
Your LinkedIn profile and background images say a lot about you. Since it is a professional network, the rules to attract recruiters and followers are different from those of social networks. A single picture of you can allow people on the professional network form immediate impressions on you, about your level of professionalism and competence. Coupled with a background image, your profile picture conveys three critical elements: whom you serve, what you provide and what makes you different. It is, hence, fundamental to choose the right pictures to generate a positively impactful impression.
Tips to make your LinkedIn images trigger a positive impact
Those having a Premium subscription on LinkedIn can use various templates as their background image offered by the network. Those using the free version have to upload their own background image. It is important to consider that a background image is not just a static background picture behind your profile picture. Indeed, coupled with your profile picture and with some wordings, taglines or other branding elements, they help you stand out and can help promote your expertise. Your profile picture, obviously, has a lot to say about who you are, what you can offer and how you make yourself noted.
Following are some tips to have the perfect background image and the best profile picture.
Follow the size requirements
Choosing the wrong size can lead to pixilated or fuzzy images that are not the least appealing. Be sure to adhere to the size and format requirements. Background images can be uploaded as JPG, PNG or GIF while respecting the size of 1400×425 pixels. Profile pictures should be around 400×400 pixels but larger pictures are fine as long as they stay square. The pictures should be under 4MB each to stay on the safe side but larger pictures of up to 8MB can be uploaded. It is good to check the picture position especially if wordings are included. Custom images can be created on outside apps such as Canva. For your profile picture, remember that your face should be clearly visible; experts recommend to make your face cover about 60% of the whole image.
Use professional pictures
Selfies are definitely not an option for LinkedIn. It is recommended to hire the services of a professional photographer even if this may sound costly. The latter will know how to get the best corporate pictures while using lights adequately to make you look at your best. Also, remember that if you are not using a picture taken by a professional photographer, you should avoid using filters: your picture should look how you are. Some people edit their pictures to such an extent that it can become hard to recognize them in person. This undeniably creates a wrong perception. At the same time, take care not to use an old picture. Update your profile picture regularly as they should reflect you on a daily basis.
Dress the best and get the correct facial expression
No recruiter will be attracted by a sad or depressed looking face. The right expression is crucial to impress and a natural smile is always the key. Think about how you smile when you have to start a conversation with a stranger or at work.
A good smile should be paired with appropriate clothes too. Fancy clothes, goofy boots or extravagant non-professional clothes will only manage to scare away recruiters.
Choose a suitable background and correct posture
Outdoor pictures look great. Nonetheless, they should be avoided on LinkedIn to keep your profile image professional-looking. Certain experts recommend choosing a light color background. At the same time, your posture should be open and welcoming towards your visitors. Since on the homepage your profile picture appears on the left of the writing, consider making your shoulders face straight forward or turned in to the writing.
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