Your LinkedIn profile picture can significantly influence your online reputation. It is essential to choose the right outfit for this photo session. This will ensure that your image is professional, striking and trustworthy. Whether you are a woman or a man, the rules are not exactly the same. Let’s see how you can take advantage of them to maximise your chances of getting a LinkedIn photo that will boost your profile.
The Importance of Clothing
Your LinkedIn profile picture should reflect your professionalism while showing your personality with honesty. Inappropriate clothing can give a negative impression, whereas well-chosen clothing can boost your credibility and attract professional opportunities. Here’s why your dress code is so important:
1.Making the first impression
Your profile photo is often the first impression people have of you on LinkedIn. It can strongly influence their perception of your professionalism, and even the idea they have of your skills. A neat and appropriate outfit can immediately set you apart by giving a positive first impression. This is a necessary condition for recruiters to continue reading your online CV.
2.Enhances credibility
A professional profile photo taken with care shows that you take your online presence seriously and that you care about the image you project. Undoubtedly, the care taken with your outfit on your photo will reinforce your credibility in the eyes of your colleagues, potential employers and customers. You’ll come across as someone who cares about doing things right.
Increase your chances of success
Every professional sector has its codes. Clothing is one of them. So it’s essential to follow your sector’s codes to attract the interest of recruiters and potential employers. Statistically, you will have significantly more opportunities and contacts on LinkedIn if you are consistent with what recruiters are looking for, both consciously and unconsciously. Dressing appropriately on your LinkedIn photo will be one of the keys to maximise your chances of making contact.
Let’s move on to some practical tips for choosing the perfect outfit for your LinkedIn photo. We’ll look at generalities, as well as specific recommendations for both men and women.
Tips for Women
1. Choose a professional outfit
Choose an outfit that matches your professional sector. Dress as you would for a meeting with your colleagues. If you work in a formal environment, go for a suit, a dress without frills or an elegant blouse. If you work in a more creative environment, you’ll have the freedom to wear less conventional clothes. Always make sure your outfit is well-fitted and clean.
2. Classic and sober colours
Classic colours such as black, white, navy and grey work well for a LinkedIn photo shoot. They’re timeless and won’t draw attention away from your face. Depending on your skin tone, and the colour used for the background, beautiful pastel colours can highlight your eyes and give a softer result.
3. Choose quality fabrics
Choose quality fabrics that fit well and are comfortable to wear. Avoid shiny fabrics that could create unwanted reflections in photos. Also avoid fabrics that are too thin and could create transparencies, as studio flashes are so powerful.
4. Avoid patterns and logos
You are the subject of this photo, not your outfit. If you work in industries other than fashion, avoid giving clothes too much visual prominence. Choose outfits without patterns or visible logos, which will focus attention on your face.
5. Accessorise Moderately
Well-chosen accessories can subtly complement your outfit. Opt for a discreet necklace, a watch in a neutral colour and earrings that highlight your face. Avoid flashy accessories that could distract the viewer’s eye.
6. Avoid outfits that are too low-cut
Bear in mind that you want to project a professional image. Wearing cleavage sends the message that you are comfortable with your body. However, you need to be careful to remain measured and not wear necklines that are too deep. On the other hand, wearing a turtleneck is not recommended, as it imposes seasonality on the photo.
Tips for Men
1. Choose a suit or shirt
For men, a well-tailored suit is the classic choice for a LinkedIn photo shoot. If you prefer a more casual look, a shirt (with or without tie) or even a polo shirt can be a stylish alternative. Make sure your outfit is crisp and well ironed.
2. Classic colours
As with women, classic, sober colours such as black, navy blue, grey and white are appropriate. They create a professional and timeless image. Make sure you choose these colours according to your skin tone and body shape.
3. Choose Quality Shoes
LinkedIn portraits are usually headshots, or close-ups. This tip may seem irrelevant, but choosing good shoes that match your outfit will help you look confident in the photo. Shoes are an essential part of a man’s outfit. A well-polished pair of quality leather shoes will help you look confident in front of the camera. Avoid trainers and other sports shoes.
4. Take care
Take care of your shaving or beard, whichever you prefer. Your hairstyle should be neat and well groomed. A fresh haircut is essential. It’s also a good idea to get a good night’s sleep before a photo session so that you look your best on your LinkedIn photo!
General Advice for All
1. Be Comfortable
During a photo shoot, confidence and comfort are essential to getting natural results. Choose an outfit that you feel comfortable in. Something you’ve worn often and that makes you feel confident. Some people have a favourite outfit, the one they wear to interviews, the one that brings them luck. This is the outfit you should wear on your LinkedIn photo!
2. Try something on
Before the session, try on several outfits and accessories to see what works best. Take test photos to evaluate your appearance and adjust if necessary. Ask around for advice, preferably from people who know you well. Once you’re sure you’ve made the right choice, you’ll approach the session much more relaxed, and this will show up in the photos.
In conclusion, the choice of clothing for a LinkedIn photo is essential for creating a professional image. It is essential to the image you project. By following these specific Tips for Men and Women, combined with careful preparation, you’ll give yourself every chance of getting a photo that meets your expectations… and those of the recruiters.
