These days, most first impressions start online. Whether you are launching a new product, looking to boost your sales, looking for a job, or just wanting to stand out from the crowd, LinkedIn has grown to over 722million members and is now a crucial part of creating a professional business profile.
In 2022, LinkedIn saw a 22% increase in engagement, and as of October 2022 has over 875 million users worldwide!
We’ve put together some advice and tips to make the most of your LinkedIn profile to ensure you get noticed for all the right reasons.
Tip No. 1
Ditch the selfie!
If you browse through LinkedIn you’ll discover a diverse range of profile images, ranging from poorly lit ‘selfies’ to great professional images. While some people think that casual/candid photos are a good option – it’s very likely that most decision-makers won’t feel the same way.
Not only does a great corporate headshot help you look more competent, reliable, and influential, but it also lets people know that you are professional and take your career seriously.
It also tells the viewer that you’re confident enough to invest in yourself and that you understand the importance of outward appearances, and online interactions.
Tip No. 2
Use an industry-appropriate backdrop.
While there may not be any hard or fast rules here, you’ll generally find that different industries use different backdrops.
Professionals in more conservative industries such as finance or law should typically opt for an in-studio neutral backdrop, with neutral coloured well fitted clothing – think white, navy blue, beige or black.
If you’re job is outdoor focused, or you’d like to look more friendly an outdoor setting might work better for you. We have a range of urban and natural outdoor settings we can recommend depending on the look you are after.
A high-end In-office background can make for a great headshot, and these backdrops are ideal if you are wanting to appear friendly and professional. At Corporate Headshots Melbourne we have access to a range of office settings across the Creative Cubes co-working group that make ideal backdrops for a range of professions.
Tip No. 3
Enlist the help of a professional photographer.
There are a couple of key differences between a professional headshot and a photo taken on your phone by a friend.
- Firstly a professional photographer will have much better equipment – not only the quality of the camera, but lighting and backdrops.
- Secondly, a professional photographer knows how to get you to relax and pose in front of the camera to your best advantage.
- Thirdly professionally edited images give your profile image a polished finish. From colour corrections to eliminating things like bags under your eyes or other distractions like stray hairs, your image will convey an extra layer of professionalism.
Tip No. 4
Don’t overlook your cover image.
While having a professional profile image is paramount, there is secondary real estate that many people overlook on LinkedIn – having a great image for your cover is a great way to enhance your profile.
A lifestyle image from somewhere like unsplash that enhances your branding or a curated cover image with messaging like one of the 1200plus LinkedIn cover templates that you can make your own on Canva are great options to your profile stand out from the crowd.
Some other ideas for cover photos
- A picture of a desk or work environment is a simple but effective option that conveys a sense of professionalism.
- A product you sell or an object you use in your line of work – such as a sketchbook for a designer or a calculator for an accountant is an ideal way to quickly convey your specialist industry.
- Another option is an abstract image that enhances your branding, matches your personality or complements your profile image.
If you’d like to update your headshot, we have a range of great value packages to choose from on the personal branding page of our website.
