LinkedIn members with a profile picture get 21 times more profile views and 9 times more connection requests. 

However, uploading a random picture of yourself will not get the same results. 

So, how can you take a profile picture that makes you stand out?

Here are 7 tips on having the best LinkedIn profile picture to get you noticed and help you grow your network. 

1. Use a Recent Picture

Can people recognize you by your LinkedIn profile picture? 

Use an up-to-date picture that reflects your current appearance. This includes hairstyle, glasses, accessories, and overall style. 

When you significantly change your appearance, ensure your profile picture reflects the change. LinkedIn members might question your credibility if your appearance seems misleading. 

Pro tip: To maintain a solid personal brand and get easily recognized, use the same profile picture across all digital platforms.
You can generate a custom email signature that includes your profile picture.

2. Ditch the Selfie

LinkedIn is a professional networking platform, and selfies may not be the best way to make a positive first impression. 

Instead, ask someone to take your photo. Not only will you have a better, more natural appearance, but they can also suggest ways to improve the picture.

Example of a good LinkedIn profile picture

3. Use Proper Lighting

Soft natural light is the best type of lighting for your LinkedIn profile picture.

Avoid overhead and fluorescent lights. Overhead lights create shadows on your face, while fluorescent lights can alter your skin tone.

For outdoor shots, stand behind the sunlight so you won’t squint your eyes from direct sunlight.

The best time to shoot outdoors is just after sunrise or before sunset. The sunlight is soft and warm during these periods, ideal for outdoor shoots.

4. Use a High-Resolution Picture

LinkedIn recommends uploading a profile picture of 400 x 400 pixels and a maximum size of 8MB. 

Consider that your profile picture will be cropped to a circle, so frame your shot carefully. 

5. Pick the Right Face Expression

How do you want people to perceive you? 

Your profile picture is your chance to showcase your personality and professionalism. 

Draw your target audience in with a warm, friendly smile. However, remember to balance approachability with competence.

6. Use a Distraction-Free Background

Make sure your background doesn’t take attention away from you

Try to use simple backgrounds with plain colors like grey, white, and sky blue. These backgrounds complement your skin tone and the color of your attire.

Do you want to reinforce your brand voice? Using a simple background makes it easy to replace it with your custom. 

When shooting outdoors, ensure there are no distractions in the background. 

If you need to replace your picture’s background with a custom image or color, you can use Removebg’s background removal and background replacement tools.

Other free tools for background removal include:

7. Dress to Impress

Your outfit significantly impacts your professional image. 

Choose an outfit that aligns with your industry standards and career aspirations. 

A suit and tie is your best bet if you work in a more conservative industry like finance or law. A more relaxed, stylish look is a good choice for more creative fields. 

Additionally, consider your company culture and dress code when selecting your outfit.

Bonus Tip: Use LinkedIn Filters

LinkedIn helps you get the best profile picture with its built-in editor.

You can crop your image to ensure you’re the main focus, adjust its lighting, or apply filters to improve the overall look and feel. 

Wrapping It Up!

Your LinkedIn profile picture makes a significant impact on how people perceive you. 

Dress appropriately for your industry and company culture, and pay attention to details like facial expression, background, and lighting. 

Remember to update your profile picture to update changes in your appearance or professional role.