The 3 Biggest Headshot Mistakes I See on LinkedIn (And How to Fix Them)

When it comes to LinkedIn, your profile picture is more than just an image—it’s a digital handshake, often the first thing people see when they visit your profile. A good headshot can help you build credibility, trust, and make a lasting impression. However, many LinkedIn users make some common mistakes that can seriously hurt their personal brand. Here are the three biggest headshot mistakes I see on LinkedIn and how you can avoid them.

1. No Picture at All

This one might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised at how many profiles still have a blank space where their photo should be. A LinkedIn profile without a photo can make you look unprofessional or unapproachable. After all, a profile without a face is essentially invisible in a sea of profiles that do have photos.

Why it’s a mistake:

In today’s digital world, a lack of a profile picture can come across as a red flag. Bottom line, people want to know who they’re engaging with and not having a photo can make you seem disconnected or unreliable or even like it is a fake profile.

How to fix it:

Add a clear, professional photo that represents you in the best light. It doesn’t need to be a fancy photoshoot—just a well-lit, high-quality image where you’re facing the camera with a friendly expression. Your LinkedIn photo doesn’t need to be over-the-top, but it should make you look approachable and professional.

2. An Outdated or Unclear Picture

Another common mistake I see is the use of an outdated or inappropriate photo. Some people use photos from years ago that no longer represent what they look like today, while others include photos with friends, family, or colleagues—making it unclear who the profile actually belongs to. Others have pictures where their face is covered by sunglasses, hats, or even just poor framing where their face is too far away to be seen clearly.

Why it’s a mistake:

Using an outdated or unclear picture can confuse potential employers, clients, or connections. If your LinkedIn photo doesn’t accurately represent what you look like now, it can make people question whether you’re being genuine or whether you’re stuck in the past. Additionally, photos with multiple people make it difficult to tell which one is you, which can lead to misunderstandings or missed opportunities.

How to fix it:

Update your photo to something recent and relevant to your current career or professional image. Make sure your face is clearly visible, and avoid including others in your headshot. You should be the sole focus of the photo to keep things professional and clear. Aim for a head-and-shoulders shot, where you’re looking directly at the camera with a friendly, approachable expression.

3. An AI-Generated Headshot

In the age of artificial intelligence, tools that create AI-generated headshots are gaining popularity. While these tools can produce clean, polished images that look professional, they can also raise serious trust issues. AI-generated headshots may appear too perfect or lack the warmth and personality that a real photo conveys.

Why it’s a mistake:

AI-generated headshots might look good on the surface, but they can come across as inauthentic. On a platform like LinkedIn, where connections are built on trust, people may feel skeptical if they think your photo isn’t a real representation of you. It might make potential employers or clients question your transparency or wonder what you might be hiding.

How to fix it:

Skip the AI-generated images and opt for a real, authentic headshot. While it’s tempting to use a perfect, polished image, people want to connect with you, not a synthetic version of yourself. If you’re unsure how to take a professional photo, use natural light, a clean background, and a simple, genuine smile. It doesn’t need to be over-edited—just keep it authentic and true to who you are.

Your LinkedIn profile picture is a vital part of your professional brand, and getting it right can make a world of difference in how you’re perceived. By avoiding these common headshot mistakes—having no photo, using outdated or unclear images, and relying on AI-generated photos—you can ensure your LinkedIn profile leaves a positive and lasting impression.

Remember: authenticity matters. A real, approachable photo that accurately represents you will always stand out more than a picture that feels inauthentic or unclear. So, take the time to choose a photo that reflects who you are and the professional image you want to convey. It’s one of the simplest yet most effective ways to boost your LinkedIn profile!