Recent surveys reveal that over 85% of recruiters and hiring managers rely on LinkedIn to source and screen potential candidates. This underscores the importance of presenting yourself professionally through your profile picture, as a less-than-ideal photo could potentially cost you your dream job.
Without further ado, let’s delve into the top 5 common LinkedIn profile photo mistakes to avoid:
Mistake #1: Outdated Appearance As a general guideline, consider updating your headshot every two years. Although you might not notice significant changes in your appearance over a short period, our bodies and faces continually evolve. If you’ve undergone a significant change in weight, hairstyle, or switched industries, it’s wise to update your photo promptly.
Don’t create an unprofessional first impression by appearing significantly different online than you do in person. Wondering if it’s time for a LinkedIn profile photo update? Check out our quick guide on taking a professional headshot at home using your smartphone.
Mistake #2: Inappropriate Attire When it comes to clothing, different industries have varying expectations. In general, it’s advisable to dress up for your LinkedIn photos. A solid-colored button-down Oxford-style shirt is a safe choice that works well across industries.
Mistake #3: Unfitting Background Just like your clothing, your industry should dictate the backdrop for your headshots. You can choose between outdoor, studio, or office settings.
- Studio: Plain studio backdrops are the most common and undeniably professional option for your headshot. They also eliminate concerns about weather or outdoor conditions.
- Outdoor: Opt for outdoor sessions if you want a friendlier profile photo or if your profession is closely linked to nature. A skilled headshot photographer can suggest locations with urban, natural, or cultural vibes.
- In-Office: If you have access to a stylish office, you can use it as your photo backdrop, conveying power and success. Just ensure your space is tidy before the shoot.
Uncertain about the ideal backdrop for you? Take our free HeadShot Recommendation Quiz for personalized suggestions based on your industry, personality, and career goals. Many of our customers choose Our Combo Session, which offers a balanced mix of outdoor and studio shots for maximum variety.
Mistake #4: Using a Cell Phone Photo For heaven’s sake, avoid using an iPhone or any cell phone for your headshot. While smartphone cameras have improved over the years, they still lag behind dedicated professional cameras and lenses in terms of quality.
In addition to lower photo quality, cell phone cameras often use wide-angle lenses that can be unflattering. The difference between a proper camera and a cell phone is evident to anyone viewing the photos.
Mistake #5: A Stiff and Formal Look Being professional doesn’t mean you need to appear stern. While some roles, like executives and lawyers, require a strong presence in photos, an excessively stiff LinkedIn headshot can make you seem uncomfortable or awkward.
Watch out for bad posture and forced smiles, as these can give away the stiffness in your photo. Ultimately, you should aim to convey professionalism, competence, confidence, and approachability in your headshots.
Bonus Mistake: Neglecting Editing and Airbrushing In everyday life, minor imperfections like yellow teeth, acne, or stray hairs often go unnoticed due to people’s constant movement. However, in high-resolution still photography, these imperfections can be distracting.
A quality headshot should undergo subtle yet effective editing to remove distracting elements such as yellow teeth, acne, and stray hairs.
In Summary: Elevate Your Headshot and Secure More Interviews Thank you for reading! By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure your LinkedIn profile photo stands out, increasing your chances of landing interviews with competitive companies.
If you’re considering updating your headshot, call or email us today. 
St Louis Corporate Photographer 