What Makes a Great LinkedIn Profile Picture?

First impressions count.

Let’s make a test.

Who would you rather get advice from?

Personal brand’s on the line. Who are you trusting?

Your profile picture is the first thing people see.

It shapes how they see you – and what you’re offering.

If your photo feels unclear, cluttered, or outdated, people might scroll past without a second thought.

Here’s how to make sure they don’t:

• Use a recent photo (taken in the last 3 years) that actually looks like you
• Make sure it’s high quality (LinkedIn suggests 400×400 pixels)
• Choose one where you look friendly and easy to talk to
• Frame it so your face takes up about 60% of the image
• Ask someone to take it for you—or set up a tripod
• Keep the background simple, blurry, or neutral
• And keep it just you—no pets, no friends, no distractions

Need help making a great-looking picture? Use the tool below.

Start by uploading a photo of yourself. The background will be removed automatically.
Pick a color from the options shown, then download your picture.

Want inspiration from top influencers’ profile pictures?
Check out these 10 templates to get started.

1. Justin Wright

2. Jonathan Parsons

3. Elena Hoffer

4. Lorenzo Ferrari

5. Alex Hormozi

6. Goldie Chan

7. Kariman El Helw

8. Jasmin Alić

9. Daniel Murray

10. Aniket Dhiman