If you are wondering what type of photo you should use to best suit your online profile, Gabrielle Frank, a writer at More, canvassed several experts and listed the following suggestions in the magazine’s Money & Careers section.
MAKE FACE TIME – Leave the full-body shots to the models. Both image consultants and recruiters agree that if you decide to post a photo on your LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter profile, it’s most appropriate to go with an upper-body image. A professionally taken picture is usually best since the photographer knows how to avoid unnecessary shadows or glares. However, if your budget is tight, have a friend take a picture of you in a well-lit room with a plain background. Then use a photo-editing program to enhance and crop the image.
LOOK THE PART – Dress as though you were going on an interview. You want to look fresh-faced, well groomed and work appropriate.
KEEP IT CURRENT – Change your photo every time you change your appearance. When people Google your name, they want to know that what comes up is really you.
GROUP PHOTOS – If you’re nervous about posting an individual shot, a group photo offers an alternative. Consultants are divided on this topic, since a group photo may confuse a possible contact. Lauren Milligan, a job search specialist, believes a profile photo with co-workers from a networking event where nametags are visible could provide for an interesting conversation point during an interview. Other consultants feel this type of photo may be more appropriately used in a Facebook album, or on your personal website. A study conducted by the Society for Human Resource Management (surveyed 600 HR representatives) found that companies are more likely to hire an individual if they know they’re involved in volunteer/civic group or a professional organization, so a photo from one of those events might also be an option.
