Linkedin Profile Photo Or Not?

Linkedin profiles without a photo, does this make you suspicious, even uncomfortable? Are you a person without a photo, torn, wanting to add but not add on Linkedin? Profiles using graphic design instead of a smiling face – do you experience a negative reaction, ‘rules’ on a professional network are being flaunted, ignored?

There are a few things to consider before taking a stand for or against the Linkedin Profile Photo, or perhaps becoming neutral.

1. The Blank No Photo Linkedin Profile

If a Linkedin Profile does not have a photo, does it says something? Yes.

It’s not the member trying to hide age, or an ugly gargoyle afraid you would shiver and quake if you saw their image.

Perhaps the Linkedin member would rather you concentrate on reading their profile instead of focusing on their photo.

It could be a message – I am social media aware.

• Privacy, no cataloging by Big Brother applications.
• I know about image theft, image misuse.

2. The Graphic Design Photo

The graphic design image is a creative message; often a more accurate representation of a person. It could be a logo for a small personal business.

3. Undecided, To Photo Or Not

If you are having difficulty deciding to use a photo on your Linkedin profile, you are probably aware of the issues.

Your indecision is being tugged.

You might have been prodded with a reminder by Linkedin profile prompting – again! Counseled by a coach, articles, advising if you add a photo you “appear” trustworthy and your profile views will increase.

It is a basic psychological thing we can’t escape, as human beings, we identify with the faces of other human beings.

4. Decisions About Linkedin Photos - Deeper

In some industries, almost everyone uses a photo on their Linkedin profile. If you are in one of these and are looking for employment, you might find it difficult to resist the flow.

If there are photos of you on websites in and out of social media, it is a done deal – no point avoiding on Linkedin. You are already visually exposed. Go add your photo.

I like graphic designs and I’m sure you can figure out why. But Linkedin does NOT. It reveals a lot to me about the person.

But caution, whack of the ruler might you feel from Linkedin, your beautiful creativity gone Kapoof! It happens. Three strikes and you will be a ghostie for the rest of your Linkedin days.

In some industries, especially in Information Technology you are going to find the highest number of Linkedin profile photo resisters.

If the Linkedin member is in security, or has an understanding of security, social media – don’t be surprised if you see no photo. You should even expect it.

IT professionals are the most likely group to opt out of using profile photos on Linkedin.

So why do you think that is?

5. A Darker Side Of Profile Photos

Have you made your decision about Linkedin Profile photos?

No Website Can Protect Your Photo

If you use or are deciding to use a profile photo on Linkedin or any other social media site, realize the sites cannot protect your photo from capture. It can be used for a devious purpose. It can also be run through image search recognition software.

Is The Person The Real Person?

Have you met the person behind a smiling Linkedin photo? If the answer is no, you can never be sure the photo is the real person. The external web is a treasure hunting ground for photo substitution on Linkedin. Some imposters masking visually are amazingly audacious. I know this first hand.

6. New Linkedin Feature – Photo Scan?

If you are getting nervous about your visual identity perhaps you might like Linkedin to scan every incoming profile photo – just to make sure somebody isn’t using your face.

Ah, but what about your photo on some website posted by somebody long ago. A photo you don’t even know about - a younger you? Are we talking clear match or partial? Some of us look alike, we even have twins.

But it might be coming someday, on Linkedin. Just imagine 1 billion professionals worldwide, all those faces. Will security agencies become redundant? Think of companies, private interests lining up to PAY Linkedin for a scan or two.

7. Tips For Those Who Use Linkedin Profile Photos

Consider limiting your photo to your connections.

If you really need or want a job you are applying for or hope to be found and you think your photo might help? Keep your photo inside your network.

Check your Linkedin settings; do not have your photo set to be viewable by all 350+ Million Linkedin members.

Your internal photo settings also appear to be the default for your public profile, so watch out!

Using a photo or not for Linkedin profiles is an individual personal choice. Those who use and those who do not, should respect each other and the choice made.

Settings for Photos On Profiles Linkedin

Photo Credits: Eyes for the World (back ground gentled), Gargoyle Middle Ages , Plucked Penguin , Ball Question Mark Man .

Series: Privacy, Identity Management and Security

About the Author: Broad spectrum career path. IT professional 20+ Years. Member on Linkedin since 2009.

I appreciate comments. It’s a dialogue that can be productive.  Your thoughts, opinions and insights matter.

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