You don't get second chance to make First Impression

First Impression is all about your head shot, your background photo and your customized LinkedIn URL. Good stuff!

Step 1: Upload a Professional Profile Photo

First impressions count! A professional photo is a great way to give a lasting first impression. You may be surprised, but there are reasonable options when it comes to having a professional head shot taken.

In the mean time, have a friend or family member take a picture of you with a smart phone. Make sure your appearance is clean and professional and that you are wearing clothing appropriate to your industry. Make sure you have a neutral background.

The ideal size for your profile picture on LinkedIn is 400px by 400px. Your photo should be a square and in JPG, GIF or PNG file format.

STEP 2: Upload a Professional Background Photo

Adding a background photo to your LinkedIn profile gives it more personality. It allows you to give a hint into who you are and what interests you.

You can find free photos at https://unsplash.com/ and https://pixabay.com/. You can use the search box on each of these websites to find photos specific to your niche. You may choose to use a stunning landscape or something related to your industry.

Make sure the background photo is professional. The ideal size is 1584px by 396px. Your photo should be in JPG, GIF or PNG file format.

STEP 3: Customize your Public Profile URL

Personalizing your URL shows others that you are serious about your LinkedIn success. It is professional and enhances your overall personal brand. It also allows others to easily find you.

When customizing your URL, use a variation of your name or personal brand. If that option is not available, try other variations of your name, including initials or your middle name. Your URL can have 5 – 30 letters or numbers.

You’ve got this!

You are well on your way to optimizing your LinkedIn profile.

Homework

Do you have a high-quality professional profile photo? Comment right now and let me know if your profile photo is good or if you will be uploading a new one.