Your CXO resume and LinkedIn profile are arguably the 2 most important parts of your executive job transition. Both need to work in conjunction to help you land your next opportunity. Where your executive resume is generally more targeted and formal, you have a little more freedom with your LinkedIn profile to add personality and extra details.

A primary opportunity to add a personal touch to LinkedIn that is less appropriate on an executive resume is the addition of a photo. Ask any executive resume writer, recruiter, or search firm, and they will tell you how important it is to have a good profile photo on your executive LinkedIn profile. Some viewers may question the legitimacy of your profile if you do not include a picture, and statistics show that LinkedIn profiles with photos get 21 times more profile views and 9 times more connection requests. A professional headshot is a critical component of establishing a strong and authentic executive career brand that resonates with your professional identity.

That being said, do not use just any photo from your other social media accounts for your executive LinkedIn profile. LinkedIn is a very different platform for a very different audience. You need to leave the best first impression possible; it’s a good idea to enlist the help of a photographer who specializes in LinkedIn headshots to guide you toward a photo that will have the desired impact.

You may already know the basics of LinkedIn headshots—make sure your photo looks like you, you are the only one in the picture, and you are making eye contact with the camera. Wear appropriate business attire and settings, and don’t use a selfie.

How to Capture Your Specific Attributes with An Executive LinkedIn Profile Photo

You can strategically stage and pick your photo to portray the most important attributes for your next career move. For example, if you want to look more:

• Intelligent: Dress formally, feature an upper-class hobby, or wear glasses, even if you don’t usually.
• Confident: Gently squint your eyes to avoid a wide-eyed look, use body language that takes up space, and don’t over-smile.
• Competent: Make eye contact, avoid funny hand gestures, stand straight, and show yourself in a business setting.
• Authentic: Whether you’re sitting or standing, you should be comfortable. Try holding something in your hands or taking candid shots where you aren’t posed and staring into the camera.
• Influential: Strike a power pose, take the picture slightly below eye level, and use professional lighting.

Just as a compelling headshot is vital for your LinkedIn profile, remember the power of an executive biography to further articulate your personal story and leadership philosophy, often enhanced by a consistent professional image.

To find out how we can help you professionalize your executive LinkedIn profile, book a complimentary and confidential call with us here.