3 Reasons To Tone Down Your LinkedIn Photo - Work It Daily

3 Reasons To Tone Down Your LinkedIn Photo - Work It Daily What do tuxedos, strapless dresses, bar scenes, beaches, and outdoor parties have in common? They’ve all been the accompaniment to some amazingly casual LinkedIn photos. You’re probably aware that a professional presence on LinkedIn can either facilitate or undermine your job search â€" but you might not know that the headshot you choose is an important part of your personal brand. 3 Reasons To Tone Down Your LinkedIn Photo Here are strong reasons to keep your LinkedIn photo toned-down and reasonably professional: 1. Your Future Boss Or Co-Workers Will Be Checking You Out Here No, not like that. They’ll want to learn about you prior to the interview, and before you come into the office on your first day. In fact, you’ll notice a spike in your Profile Visitor hit rate just before these events. A LinkedIn photo that exudes confidence and professionalism will set the tone for your first meetings, while a too informal one can cast doubt on your fitness for the new job. 2. Recruiters Are Trying To Decide If You’re A Presentable Candidate In the digital age, a LinkedIn page may be all a recruiter (who is talking to you from across the country, or world, for that matter) has to go by before setting you up for an interview. Nothing says “pass me by” faster than cocktail attire, or that relaxed look on your face as you hoist a cool one with your friends â€" even if you've taken the time to craft a strong brand message throughout your Profile. 3. Potential Networking Contacts Are Sizing You Up For A Connection You may be issuing status updates that show you’re at the top of your professional game, or joining in Groups discussions about your leadership philosophy. However, these activities are not what others will see first. Instead, they’ll form an opinion based on the message sent by your photo â€" before even thinking about what you wrote. Don’t discourage them by presenting your private, non-work persona side over your professional one! So, take another look at your LinkedIn photo with a critical eye. Just because it shows you looking great (at your cousin’s wedding or that after-work party) doesn't mean it will automatically convey your professional acumen. You’ll benefit from investing in yourself with either a professionally created headshot, or a photo taken in a neutral setting. All you’ll need is a suit, a camera-bearing friend, and a confident smile to boost your opportunities on LinkedIn. Related Posts: 5 Mistakes That Are Killing Your LinkedIn Profile 4 Ways To Be Memorable On LinkedIn 4 Mistakes Job Seekers Make With Their LinkedIn Headline Photo Credit: Shutterstock Have you joined our career growth club?Join Us Today!