When was the last time you updated your LinkedIn profile picture? If it‘s been a while, you‘re not alone. According to LinkedIn, nearly 20% of the platform‘s 690 million users still have the default "blank head" image as their profile photo.
But beware—having an outdated, low-quality, or missing picture can seriously impact your professional opportunities. Research shows that LinkedIn profiles with pictures receive up to 21x more views and 9x more connection requests compared to those without photos.
"Your profile picture is your digital first impression," says LinkedIn career expert Blair Heitmann. "It‘s the first thing people see when they find you in search results or land on your profile. Within milliseconds, that image shapes how others perceive you and your personal brand."
In an eye-tracking heatmap study, viewers spent 19% of their time on a LinkedIn profile looking at the profile picture—more than any other page element. So choosing the right photo matters a great deal.
10 LinkedIn Profile Picture Mistakes to Avoid
What makes a bad impression on LinkedIn? Here are the most common types of terrible LinkedIn profile pictures, according to recruiters and career coaches:
1. The Missing Headshot
Mistake number one is not having a profile picture at all. The default blank silhouette makes it seem like you don‘t care about your LinkedIn presence. It can also make people wonder what you‘re trying to hide.
If you want to be taken seriously on the platform, uploading a professional headshot is non-negotiable. You‘re 7x more likely to have your profile viewed if you have a picture, so adding one should be your first priority.
2. The Dated Photo
When was your current picture taken—2015? 2010? Using an obviously dated photo is a common faux pas on LinkedIn. It suggests you‘re not social media savvy or in touch with modern best practices.
Plus, if you show up to an interview or meeting looking different than your profile pic, it can seem like false advertising. For best results, keep your LinkedIn photo current within the last 1-2 years.
3. The Wildly Inappropriate Shot
LinkedIn is not the place for your beach vacation pics, wild night out photos, or bachelorette party group shots. Images that are too casual or revealing reflect poorly on your professional judgment.
Anything you wouldn‘t want your current boss, future hiring manager, or key client to see should not be on LinkedIn. Play it safe with a work-appropriate headshot in professional dress.
4. The Low-Quality Pic
Blurry, pixelated, and distractingly dark photos are all too common on the LinkedIn. Low-quality images are hard to see and reflect poorly on your attention to detail. Dim lighting can also make your pic look unprofessional.
For a crisp image that makes you look sharp, invest in a few high-resolution headshots taken in natural light. The quality of your photo affects perceptions of your professional image.
5. The Awkward Crop Job
Cropping other people out of a photo looks awkward and lazy on LinkedIn. It‘s confusing for viewers, who may fixate on your mystery companion‘s shoulder or half-face instead of your profile.
Group shots in general are a no-go for LinkedIn profile pics. Keep the frame filled with your face only, from the shoulders up, for a clean, professional look.
6. The Unflattering Angle
Extreme close-ups that show only part of your face are unsettling and unflattering. On the other hand, distant shots where your facial features are barely recognizable defeat the purpose of a profile photo.
Your face should take up about 60% of the frame, from mid-chest or shoulders up. Get close enough to show your friendly expression, but not so close that key features are out of frame.
7. The Busy Background
Distracting, cluttered backgrounds are a common profile photo mistake that can cheapen your professional image. Messy spaces, loud patterns, photobombing passersby, and identifiable locations all pull focus from where it should be—your face.
When in doubt, choose a clean, neutral backdrop like a blank wall or solid-colored drape. The simpler the background, the more professional the photo.
8. The Snap-Filter Special
Heavy-handed photo filters are glaringly obvious and undermine your credibility on LinkedIn. While subtle touchups are fine, resist the urge to blur every wrinkle or use trendy filters that distort your appearance.
For maximum professionalism, use a naturally-lit photo that represents the real you. Avoid the airbrushed effect in favor of an authentic yet polished look.
9. The Goofy Glamour Shot
Silly poses, exaggerated expressions, and cheesy headshots have no place on your professional profile. LinkedIn is not the platform for your blue steel gaze, duck lips pose, or meme-worthy winking selfie.
Aim for a relaxed, friendly smile or confident expression that conveys approachability. Save the silliness for Snapchat and present your most professional self on LinkedIn.
10. The Logo No-Go
Subbing in your company logo, a favorite quote, or a cute puppy pic might fly on Instagram, but it‘s a hard no for LinkedIn. Using any graphic or non-photo image looks out of place and confuses people about your identity.
Your profile picture should be of your face only—no cartoons, graphics, word clouds, or bitmojis. Stick to a professional headshot for best results.
What Makes a Great LinkedIn Profile Picture?
Now that you know what not to do, follow these quick tips for a stellar headshot that makes a strong first impression:
| Do | Don‘t |
|---|---|
| Use a recent photo that looks like you | Use an obviously dated photo |
| Choose a high-quality, high-res image | Use a blurry, pixelated, or dark photo |
| Aim for soft, natural lighting | Use harsh lighting or distracting shadows |
| Wear professional, work-appropriate attire | Wear casual clothes or revealing outfits |
| Show your face and shoulders clearly | Crop in too close or zoom out too far |
| Choose a plain, neutral backdrop | Use a busy, cluttered, or distracting background |
| Aim for a warm, friendly expression | Use exaggerated poses or expressions |
| Touch up a blemish or smooth a wrinkle | Over-edit with heavy filters or effects |
"Your LinkedIn photo is a key part of your professional brand and online presence," says Heitmann. "Make sure it‘s working for you, not against you."
Taking the time to get a few high-quality, professional headshots will pay off in the long run. If your current pic features any of the LinkedIn photo crimes above, it‘s time for an upgrade.
Swap out that dated vacation selfie for a polished, professional photo and watch your connection requests rise. With the right headshot, you‘ll make a stellar first impression before you even say hello.