Tahoma Guiry, our Vice President of Marketing & Creative Services sees thousands of LinkedIn profiles every year. Now hear from her what she’s hears directly from hiring managers about what catches their attention—and what doesn’t.
From my front-line perspective, one of the top items my clients requests is a candidates LinkedIn profile. Your LinkedIn photo and profile aren’t just nice-to-haves anymore; they are critical tools that can make or break a first impression with potential employers. When it comes to career opportunities, first impressions often happen long before a handshake or Zoom call.
Think of it this way: the same effort you would put into preparing for an in-person interview—choosing the right outfit, practicing confident body language, showing up prepared—should also apply to your profile photo. Your picture is a visual introduction, and presentation matters.
Why It Matters
- Instant credibility: A professional photo signals seriousness, attention to detail, and confidence. Hiring managers notice and comment on photos that are blurry, too busy, or look like it came off your Meta feed.
- Industry alignment: Different industries have different expectations—your photo should reflect the professional norms of your field. Marketing and design professionals may lean into creativity with lifestyle shots, while finance and accounting professionals may project polish and formality.
- Human connection: A warm, approachable headshot makes you more relatable and trustworthy online. And a kind expression can make you more memorable.
Barriers to Professional Photos
I understand and recognize that not everyone has the time or budget to book a professional photographer. Fortunately, technology is leveling the playing field. Today, there are free or affordable AI-powered tools that can help you create a polished, professional-looking headshot in minutes. I tested these out myself – and while not all are perfect, they’re pretty darn good! (And no, my profile picture is not AI generated). Take a look at a few of my recommendations:
- BetterPic – Enhances existing photos into professional-quality headshots, and pretty realistic.
- AI Suitup – Uses advanced AI technology to create photorealistic business headshots.
- Canva AI Headshot Generator – Instantly transform candid selfies into polished photos.
- Profile Bakery – Made specifically for professional photos. It’s affordable and editable online.
These tools can help you create a professional image without expensive studio sessions.
Helpful Tips to Remember
Do’s ✅
- Use a Recent Photo – Your profile photo should represent how you currently look. A 20-year-old picture can create disconnect during interviews.
- Dress Appropriately for Your Industry – Tailor your outfit to your field: formal business attire for finance, law, and accounting; business casual or creative attire for marketing, design, or tech roles.
- Choose a Simple, Neutral Background – Avoid distractions. A clean background keeps the focus on you. Or have the background slightly blurred.
- Face the Camera & Smile – A friendly, approachable expression conveys confidence and openness.
- Use High-Resolution Images – Blurry or pixelated photos can appear unprofessional.
- Ensure Proper Lighting – Natural light works best. Avoid harsh shadows or dark environments.
- Show Only Yourself – Crop to your head and shoulders so the focus is on you, not surroundings or other people.
- Consider Your Industry Norms – Executive leaders often prefer formal headshots, while creative professionals may use lifestyle or action shots that show personality.
Don’ts ⛔
- Avoid Too Casual or Social Photos – Pictures from inside your car, parties, vacations, or selfies send the wrong message.
- No Filters or Heavy Retouching – Over-editing can make you look less authentic.
- Don’t Include Props or Logos – Unless it’s a relevant industry tool (e.g., a camera for a photographer), props can be distracting.
- Avoid Busy Backgrounds – Cluttered or colorful settings distract from your image.
- Don’t Use Group Photos – It should be clear who you are at a glance.
- Avoid Inconsistent Styles – Make sure your photo matches your personal brand and professional messaging.
- Don’t use a photo of a photo – Even if you’re using your cell phone, it’s better to take a fresh picture of yourself than to snap a photo of an existing printed photo.
💡 Extra Tip: If you’re unsure how your photo comes across, ask colleagues for feedback or compare your image against LinkedIn profiles of successful professionals in your field.
The Takeaway
Your LinkedIn profile is more than a digital resume—it’s your personal brand. Don’t underestimate the impact of your photo. A professional headshot, or even a well-composed lifestyle shot that reflects your field, can set you apart before you ever step into the interview process.
This isn’t just an opinion, this is the feedback you’ve asked to hear from hiring managers. My clients have shared this with us and as a recruiter that really wants to help, I want to pass along the information to help you be successful in your job search.
I pride myself in coaching candidates on how to position themselves for success, and that includes the tiny details. A polished profile photo might feel like a small step, but it’s one that can make a big difference in your job search.
- Hiring Managers: Would you agree or disagree that how the candidate presents themself on LinkedIn is just one factor involved, at some point, in the decision making process? What are your thoughts?
- Candidates: Have you ever noticed a change in your profile engagement after changing your profile picture to a more professional headshot? I’d love to hear!
With deep expertise in Marketing and executive recruitment, Tahoma Guiry, VP of Marketing and Creative Services, brings decades of experience matching companies with high-impact leaders who drive growth and innovation. She understands the nuances of today’s competitive landscape and the importance of finding professionals who not only have the right skills but also the right vision and fit for your organization.
If securing top marketing, design, and executive talent has been a challenge, ICX Group can help. Our focus is always on quality over quantity, delivering candidates who are positioned to make an immediate impact. Connect with Tahoma today to learn how her expertise—and the resources of ICX Group—can support your next critical hire.
At ICX Group, we are more than just a search firm—we’re a trusted partner for our clients and candidates. We go beyond resumes to truly understand your business, your culture, and the critical needs of each role to ensure the right alignment every time.
Tahoma Guiry | 904.208.2194 | Tahoma.Guiry@icxgroup.com