Whether you're an entry-level candidate or a seasoned pro, you can't afford to underestimate the importance of the LinkedIn profile image in ensuring that prospective clients take you seriously.
LinkedIn is now the largest online business-networking platform, with more than half a billion users worldwide. It doesn't matter if our online professional personas are creative or corporate, how we choose to showcase ourselves can be the difference between getting noticed or getting passed over.
When applying for a job on LinkedIn, your profile is the very first thing someone sees when considering your resume. And if you only have the attention of a recruiter or hiring manager for a few seconds you better make that impression count. You wouldn't hand out a resume full of spelling mistakes, so why would one expect that a poorly lit selfie will do the trick?
You want to make sure that the photo looks like you on your best day. Not your best night out, not your best skiing weekend (unless you’re applying at REI) but you at your most charmingly authentic, professional self. People hire and do business with people they like, and if you come across as genuine, confident and amiable then you’ll have a much better chance of connecting with the person scanning your profile.
As you've probably noticed, LinkedIn now offers a small circular window for your profile image. So keep it close. You want your eyes and expression to be the focal point. You don’t want to be lost in a sea of furniture, people, architectural details, background noise, etc.
Also, what you wear is important. Sometimes business attire is not the most flattering clothing on-camera. Most likely you'll do better by coming across as relevant to your industry by wearing something well fitted and modern rather than outdated or too conservative. When booking a professional headshot session, make sure to discuss your wardrobe ideas and options with your photographer.
Photoshoots usually offer multiple looks - make it count. You can use your session to create a look book of images that can be used across multiple social media platforms from professional to creative to online dating. These will tie in together to create your personal brand and provide a cohesive online representation that speaks volumes about who you are and what you have to offer.
At the end of the day, investing in a professional headshot is an investment in yourself. A strong LinkedIn profile image will distinguish you from the crowd and go a long way in supporting that next step in your career path.
For bookings and inquiries contact Nicolette at 310.622.4580 - nicolette@NJPphotography.com