How to avoid these 9 most common LinkedIn profile picture mistakes

Creating your LinkedIn profile allows you to include a picture but not just any picture. Choose a photo that reflects a professional image. In today’s world, most hiring managers and recruiters will review your social media profiles before inviting you to an interview, and they want to see you. While choosing a picture seems like an easy task, Part 2 of this three-part webinar series, How to avoid these 9 most common LinkedIn profile picture mistakes, discusses the don’ts when selecting your profile photo. This webinar also includes tips and advice related to LinkedIn and profile pictures.

This three-part webinar series features Amanda Augustine (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jobsearchamanda), Career Management Expert who helps recent college graduates and accomplished professionals reach their full career potential. The webinar is moderated by Andrea McEwen Henderson (https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreamcewen), former National Account Manager for College Recruiter.

Key Takeaways:

• Invest in a good profile photo. Your career will thank you.
• Make sure your headshot is professional, friendly, and in alignment with your personal brand.
• Your selfie is not going to score you any points with prospective employers.
• While you have a great family and your dog is adorable, neither of these images belongs in your profile picture.
• Make sure headshots are consistent across all your professional profiles.
• You don’t need to spend a ton to get a great headshot.

If the video is not playing or displaying properly click here.

Do I really need a profile picture if my profile is completely filled out?

Yes. Even if you’re concerned about discrimination, you are 40% more likely to get your profile reviewed if it features a picture. Include an appropriate photo; no picture is better than the wrong one.

I can’t afford a professional headshot – what should I do?

Consider taking a photo with your cell phone. Look for sales on portraits at department stores or other stores where you can try clothes on, and create a professional appearance. You can also copy your passport picture to use as a headshot.

Should I add my profile picture to my resume too?

No, unless you are a model or plan on going into business. Recruiters may screen candidates out and avoid their resumes because they don’t want to be accused of discrimination. Rule number one: never ever include a picture with your resume.

Can I apply these same rules to other profile pictures?

Yes. Your brand needs consistency among all of your social media profiles. Use the same picture for each profile. If you use Google mail (or Gmail), make sure your photo is in line with your professional brand.

I’m not on LinkedIn yet – is that bad?

Yes. LinkedIn is an essential tool for job seekers. It establishes your professional brand and helps with research and networking. LinkedIn supports the information in your resume.

Amanda Augustine is a Career Management Expert who helps recent college graduates and accomplished professionals reach their full career potential. Her goal is to get professionals into the right jobs sooner through personalized job search and career guidance. Amanda offers consulting, speaking engagements, and training sessions to all professionals ready to advance their careers. Follow Amanda on Twitter at https://twitter.com/JobSearchAmanda, on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jobsearchamanda, at http://www.jobsearchamanda.com/, or on The Ladders.com at http://www.TheLadders.com/AskAmanda.