4 steps to choosing the perfect LinkedIn image

by | Jan 19, 2014 | Author Platform, LinkedIn profiles

4 steps to choosing the perfect LinkedIn imageOne of the biggest mistakes people make on LinkedIn is a poor choice of photo or no perfect LinkedIn image at all.

Having no photo actually affects where you appear in LinkedIn search results,because it counts towards the completeness of your profile.  This is why LinkedIn says that:

  • Users with complete profiles are 40 times more likely to receive opportunities through LinkedIn
  • Your profile is 9 times more likely to be read if you include a profile picture you just don’t know how?So how should you go about choosing a photo?  Well, to start with, LinkedIn has some rules.  These are:
    • The image must be in either a JPG, GIF or PNG file
    • The image should be at least 80×80 pixels and no more than 4000×4000 pixels
    • LinkedIn photos have a file size limit of 4 MB


    Next, choose a photo of you and only you. No company logo’s, avatars, pets, children or family. You don’t take your pets or family to work, so leave images of them for Facebook.

    The image should show people how you would look in their workplace.  So no holiday snaps, wedding photos or casual clothes.  If you are a serviceman currently serving then wear your uniform, but if you’re transitioning back into civilian life, then choose an image of you wearing a suit and tie.  Dress for the job you want, not the job you have, then people can visualise you at their workplace.

    The photo should be a headshot, with you looking at the camera and smiling.  Keep the background plain and uncluttered.  We want to be able to see your face, and if you look relaxed and are smiling, then you’ll come across as approachable. 

    And finally, make sure the photo is a recent shot.  If someone invites you to interview and you’re ten or twenty years older than your photo, then they may feel that you misrepresented yourself or worry and it may damage your credibility.

    If you found this blog post “4 steps to choosing the perfect LinkedIn image” helpful, then please let me know, and if you feel you would benefit from some help with your LinkedIn profile, then consider getting a full, systematic review of your profile or some one to one training and support.