We’ve all seen the really bad LinkedIn profile photos, so we know what we shouldn’t use … right?

Just in-case you’re not 100% certain, let me share with you 8 types of photos that you should never use on LinkedIn.

#1 A Selfie

A selfie that you’ve taken using you mobile phone with your arm stretched out or via your laptop’s webcam generally speaking look hasty and unprofessional.

A professional photographer really is worth it and they don’t cost as much as you might think – remember first impressions count!

#2 Grainy, Pixelated or Disproportionate Photo

Make sure you have good lighting, images taken in poor light tend to look grainy and dark.

Always start with a high resolution image, that way when you resize it doesn’t become pixelated.

If you crop your photo make sure you retain the original proportions to avoid the image looking stretched.

#3 Poor Lighting

I’ve already mention poor lighting can make the photo look grainy.  Poor lighting can also cause shadows which in-turn can spoil a photo.

Experiment with the light and try to use natural light where possible.

#4 Party and Social Photos

Using a photo in a social setting can be good – you’ll looked relaxed and friendly.  However, caution has to be taken – avoid a photo where your are drinking, smoking or eating.

#5 Inappropriate Photos

Think about the your business or industry – is the photo appropriate?

Don’t just think about what you’re wearing, think about your surroundings – what’s in the background and to the side of you.

You also have to consider the angle that the photo is taken at.

#6 Logos

Your LinkedIn profile is 100% about YOU so never use a company or brand logo.

#7 Outdated Photos

Keep your LinkedIn profile photo updated, there’s nothing worse than using an old photo from 20 years ago.

Did you know… Some people use LinkedIn profile photos to help them identify their contacts at face to face networking events.

So if you see me at a networking event checking my mobile, I might just be checking your LinkedIn profile.

#8 No Photo

This is the ultimate NO-NO but you’ll be amazed at how many times I find profiles or get connection requests from accounts without a photo.

Statistics show that when someone see’s a profile with no photo they generally move on.

What do you do when you come across a LinkedIn profile with no photo?

8 LINKEDIN PROFILE PHOTOS YOU SHOULD NEVER USE

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