Time and time again I see glaring mistakes on LinkedIn profiles. I want to make sure you aren’t making any of these mistakes and if you are, well at least you will know and you can do something about it – fast!

I am talking about the picture you use; and yes I am talking to you as well if you have no picture. Studies have shown you are 11 times less likely to be viewed without a picture. There should be no such thing as keeping a low profile on LinkedIn (although I have noticed for some of you this is how you like it!)

They say a picture is worth a 1000 words and I will prove this to you with the shots below! (Can I ask, what are you doing in the pic below?)

Here are my tips:

  • Don’t use an avatar picture; I want to see you not a picture of a cute puppy or a cartoon character!
  • Do choose a plain background; I don’t want to be distracted by your wallpaper or your kitchen in the background.
  • Don’t have people guessing which one is you in the picture!
  • If you have managed to get a pic with a celebrity or your favourite MP, well keep it under your pillow you don’t need it as a LinkedIn profile pic!
  • Don’t use a ‘make do’ picture where you have obviously chopped the other person out of the photo; something like the one below!

LinkedIn images from andrewmacarthy.com

So what makes a good picture? (and more examples of bad profile pics!)

A good picture is a head and shoulders shot of you, ideally without sunglasses or hat and without a distracting background. I do hope that helps; oh and one final thing, remove the wedding picture – yes congrats but come on that’s for your Facebook page not your LinkedIn profile!

So if a picture is worth a 1000 words, be honest with yourself what does your picture say of you? When I worked with the Armed Forces there was a man who wanted to get a civilian job but was wearing his military uniform. Although I admit I like a uniform – on this occasion, it would have been more appropriate not to wear it as it didn’t give the right impression – remember he was looking to move into Civvy Street.

I am not expecting you to get a professional picture taken, a good old camera will do the job. Although please no selfies or shots of you on a glamorous night out in Liverpool (well I can say that as I’m from that great city!)

Think, picture = professional; you could argue this as it does depend on the profession so feel free to discuss.

When was the last time you really invested in you? I am not talking new shoes or clothes but something that can put thousands into your bank account. I am teaching you how to leverage your LinkedIn profile so it works 24/7 even when you’re not! Funny how not many of us actually invest in our career yet this is where we spend the most time day in, day out! When was the last time you invested? EVER?

Why not check out the LinkedIn Success Academy: How to NEVER apply for a job again

Feel free to check out my 4 FREE Video Series it will be a real eye opener in how you can start leveraging your profile 24/7!

As always, Get Noticed, Get Hired!

Sue