Linkedin Pictures, Sir Richard Branson Wins the Award

LinkedIn pictures have become a topic of discussion, as Sir Richard Branson shows us they can be a lot of fun. Most are professional, some people opt out completely or upload an alternative image. What type of picture is most appropriate?

Recently came across a question posted in a Linkedin Group reading, "Linkedin Pictures, I'm interested in learning more about peoples opinions and experiences - especially if they've tried both a more formal and informal photo. What is the "netiquette" on LinkedIn? Does your photo brand you? Should you keep the same photo indefinitely or is changing it regularly a good tactic?

Great question, wish I'd thought of it myself. It sparked a lot of conversation, about 95% of the respondents tended to be of the same mind set, the picture should depict a professional image. Here are sample responses:

"If you are truly representing yourself on a professional/business website like Linkedin, then the photo should also look professional or business-like.

"Social" images are more appropriate on Facebook or YouTube. ""For business, I like business dress, suit-up" and"company logo or professional dress".

"Definitely professional, save the cute stuff for your friends"

"Linkedin is for business professionals, if you want to be take seriously use a headshot"

"Fun is for my kids on facebook. Headshot is best"

Of course, I was the one voice that disagreed with the majority. Linkedin has emerged as the top social media tool for business purposes, but not all businesses are alike, nor is their brand statement or customers. In my view, it depends on 3 critical things:

1. What's your objective with Linkedin?

2. What's your business personality or culture?

3. Who's your target market and whey do they expect?

Visual Branding
As the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words, think of your picture as a visual representation of your organization or brand. While many believe it needs to be a professional head shot with a white background, I recommend professional creative pictures that tell a story. Case in point, Sir Richard Branson, his picture depicts fun, confidence, adventure, intelligence and much more. There is no suit, background is outdoors, and he appears to be laughing.

Richard Branson
Title: Chairman at Virgin Group
London, United Kingdom Leisure, Travel & Tourism

There are several examples of professionals on Linkedin using their picture to project positive images about their organization and brand including Thomas White, CEO at Small Business Radio. His picture shows him with headgear on in the studio. It’s a visual into his everyday work life and shows his focus, intensity, and joy while on air.

Thomas White
Title: CEO at SBradio
Greater Chicago Area Media Production

Tell Your Story

You may not be the CEO of an organization, but you do have a compelling story to tell. Just like the drummer in a new age jazz band using a picture of him playing, from the base of the drum set up. A nature photographer with a picture of her on the ground taking pictures in central park. Or in a more conventional setting, a picture of a university professor directing the interaction during a heated class discussion.

In each of these instances their picture describes who they are, what they do, the culture of their business, and gives their target market an idea of what to expect. The key is to be creative, think about the answers to the questions above - they'll lead you to the image that's best for you.

About the Author:
Alane Anderson is the founder and President of Vision Project Management, Emarketing & Social Media Marketing Firm. An award winning professional who has combined her experience in technology, marketing and sales to help others bring their business into the new era of internet marketing & social networking.

After forming Vision Project Management, Inc. in 1995 Alane and her team of professionals have worked with many clients to build their unique online presence including, Virgin Unite Foundation, Indian Wells, Avery Dennison, Weyerhauser, Trus Joist, Mitsubishi, to name a few.

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