“I just need a headshot for my LinkedIn profile.”
This is what many people say when they finally decide that after 10 years (or more) it might be time for a new headshot. Or even worse, they finally concede that having a blank sillhouette instead of an actual photo in their bio box isn’t the greatest look.
In today’s world, your headshot is an absolutely necessary element in your social and professional presence, whether you are an entreprenuer, a business professional, a freelancer, or part of a larger company team. Your colleagues and clients want to know who they are working with, and a current photos lends credibility and trustworthiness to the testement of your character.
So, at a mimimum, yes. Your LinkedIn profile needs to be professional and up to date. But I’m here to say, you can and should use your LinkedIn headshot for so much more.
More than a LinkedIn headshot
These days, LinkedIn is just one of the places where a social media presence needs a face to go with your name. Chances are, if you’re on LinkedIn, you also have one or more other social media accounts, such as Instagram, TikTok, What’sApp, Pinterest, X, and maybe even good old-fashioned Facebook. Unless you’re purposefully trying to remain anonymous, your smile is what people want to connect with! A current photo gives your profile validity and humanity — two things that we need more (not less) of on the scores of social media platforms these days.
But you can use your headshot for even more than that. Let’s say you are invited to participate in a professional gathering or business meeting, for example. Or you could be asked to join an organization or a board. Or, you might submit your resume for a new position or to become credentialed in some way. In all these cases, you will often be asked for a professional photo. You don’t want to appear flat-footed by responding that you unfortunately, don’t have one.
And of course, if you’re seeking new employment an engaging new headshot will increase your chances of being noticed. According to this article from 2021, 41% of recruiters say seeing a photograph ahead of time influences their first impression.
Enhancing professionalism
Remember this: a professional headshot speaks volumes about your own professionalism. It communicates self-respect toward yourself and your work, in whatever field that might be. It’s a competitive field out there and frankly, a random selfie just doesn’t cut it.
If you have questions about whether or how to go about creating a new headshot for yourself, reach out anytime! I’m always happy to do a no-obligation phone consult to make sure you’re on the right track. Plus I can show you examples of styles, and answer any questions ahead of time.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s create a fabulous new portrait — for your LinkedIn headshot… and beyond.
