LinkedIn Profile Pictures

TheLadders Eye Tracking Study

How important can a LinkedIn profile picture be?  A recent study by TheLadders used eye tracking technology to study the factors employers focus on when reviewing a LinkedIn profile.  TheLadders found that employers spend 19% of the time they look at a profile examining the profile picture.  Maybe there is truth to the saying "A picture is worth a thousand words."  Here are a few tips to help you communicate the right message to future employers with a professional profile picture. 

Do

-Dress for the Job. Your attire and appearance for a professional profile picture should also be appropriate for a job interview.

-Consider the Background. A plain or muted background will encourage others to look at you and not at what's behind you.

-Use a Headshot. Your profile picture should capture you from the top of your head to just below the shoulders.

-Be Yourself. This is not the time to try a new hairstyle. Just be yourself and offer a pleasant smile.

 

Don't

-Crop a photo from a recent vacation or photographed event. Avoid beach pictures and wedding photographs.

-Include others. Make it easy for employers to recognize you by only including yourself in your profile picture. 

-Take a self-portrait. Mirror shots are unprofessional. Ask a friend to use a camera or use a tripod and a timer to take your headshot.

-Use an outdated photo. Profile pictures should represent how you currently look, not how you looked ten years ago.

 

Need some helping making your profile picture professional?  During the month of November, the Career Services Office will be taking LinkedIn Profile Pictures during drop-in hours (Monday-Friday, 10am-2pm).  Stop by the office (KT109), take a quick photo, receive an electronic copy of your image, and improve your LinkedIn profile!