A Picture Is Worth A 1000 Words (Why Aren't You Using Images To Sell You?)

Differentiating yourself from the crowd is essential whether you’re looking for a new job or potential clients. One of the best ways to do that is with images.?

We’ve all heard “a picture is worth a thousand words,” I’m not sure that I agree with that, it can be a quicker way to get someone’s attention. And enhance your personal brand.

That’s why I’m surprised that more people don’t include media on their LinkedIn profiles.

THE FEATURED SECTION

The Featured section is one of the most underused sections on LinkedIn. Some people haven’t even added to their profiles.

Located toward the top of your profile, it’s one of the first things people see. It’s a fabulous way to grab a visitor’s attention. But, of course, only if you use it.

LinkedIn supports many forms of media—from images to video—in the Featured section. You can update and reorder them to keep your profile looking fresh.

Here are a few ideas

If you don’t have the Featured section on your Profile yet, WATCH THIS VIDEO to see how to add it.

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PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

LinkedIn supports media in the Experience section too. If you’re looking for a new job, you might want to include an image of your new certification next to your current position.

If you’re a consultant or business owner, a video of you appearing on a broadcast gives potential clients an idea of what it be like to work with you.

Most media that works for your Featured section will work for your Experience section too.

If you don’t know how to add media to your Experience section, WATCH THIS VIDEO to see how.

LINKEDIN BANNER

Because it’s right at the top of your Profile, I must mention LinkedIn’s banner. I’m surprised by how many people still have LinkedIn’s default banner. What people don’t realize is that LinkedIn’s generic background makes them look generic too.

(Because I don't believe in humiliating other humans this is a stock photo.)

CAUTION: Never just pull an image off the internet, most are copyrighted. There are many sites that sell stock photos and images where you can inexpensively purchase the rights you need.

There are many platforms where you can create a completely custom image. WATCH THIS VIDEO to see how to create a custom image in Canva.

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(I'm not affiliate with Canva, I just really love it.)

PORTFOLIOS

?Portfolios are not just for creative folks. Whether you’re interviewing for a new job or with a potential client portfolio can help set you apart.

Certainly, if you’re in a creative field, you will want to include samples of your work. Executives might want to include a visual summary of a product rollout or a case study. A better choice for business owners might find articles that featured their advice are a great addition.

?Here are some ideas.

?Creating a portfolio doesn’t have to be expensive. Your career level and industry may influence how you put one together. Here are a few ideas.

If you don’t have materials on hand, begin compiling them today. It’s better to have things you don’t need ready than to be scrambling for things you do need when your interview is a few days away.

?PERSONAL BRANDING

?All of the images you choose to share online or in person influence how people see you—your personal brand. Make sure everything you share is sending the right message.

?What you include in your career portfolio will change over time. However, wherever you are in your career, having a concrete, visual way to validate your value will set you apart.

EXCITING NEWS!!!

After a few delays, I'm excited to launch The Trend Talk Show in August. The new show, broadcast on LinkedIn and YouTube, will be a discussion on various trends. The first show will focus on LinkedIn trends.

I'm so excited that Gillian Whitney, Deanna Russo, and Kevin D. Turner said yes when I asked them to join me.

?? Save the date, August 17th at 7 pm Eastern.

I HOPE YOU FOUND THIS NEWSLETTER HELPFUL. PLEASE SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS IN THE COMMENTS.

?? DON'T MISS MY UPCOMING LINKEDIN LIVE SHOWS

Don't miss my Smarter Career Moves LinkedIn Live show every Thursday at 11 am Eastern. Broadcast on LinkedIn and YouTube. (Pop over to my LinkedIn profile to watch.

?? AUGUST / SEPTEMBER SHOWS

8/11 - Matthew Warzel - Essential Resume Elements, Finding Career Opportunities, and more.

8/18 - Phil Davis - Job Search Strategies and How To Network LinkedIn

8/25 - Kyle Elliott - How To Identify Your Own Fabulousness

9/8 - Katie Brinkley - Five Reasons You're Not Getting Leads From Social Media

9/15 - Scarlett De Bease - Choosing Clothes That Make You Look Like The Expert You Are

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

I design distinctive personal brands that land jobs, secure promotions, and win clients.

Clients tell me that working 1:1 with me gives them a new perspective on their career and/or business. And that helps them recognize the value they bring.

The building blocks of my personal brand strategy include:

?? Creating compelling LinkedIn Profiles

? Crafting Branded Executive Resumes

? Developing LinkedIn Engagement and Visibility

?? I post about personal branding, job search strategies, and celebrating diversity on LinkedIn. Follow me and #AnnetteAdvises to see my content.?

THANKS SO MUCH FOR READING, SEE YOU NEXT MONTH!