When it comes to your LinkedIn headshot, you don’t want to take any chances. It is the first impression people have of you and can make or break their opinion of you before they even read your profile. To help ensure that your photo makes the right impression, here are a few things to avoid when posing for your LinkedIn headshot:

1.      Avoid Slouching:

Nothing says "unprofessional" like slouching. It conveys a lack of confidence and can make you look unapproachable or tired. Try to keep your posture erect, shoulders squared, spine straight and chin up for a more confident and professional appearance.

2.      Don't Over-Smile:

A forced smile or overly wide grin comes off as fake and insincere in photos. Aim for an authentic, warm expression that reflects your personality without being too over the top.

3.      Don’t Cross Your Arms:

Crossing arms can give off vibes of boredom or even anger, which are not the best looks to project on your profile page! Keep your arms relaxed at your sides, or you can use them to gesture in a way that is natural and tells a story.

4.      Don't Wear Distracting Clothing:

A LinkedIn headshot should be all about you! Avoid wearing clothing with busy patterns, logos, or large accessories that take away from the focus on your face. Stick to solid colors, subtle patterns, and minimal jewelry for the best results.

5.      Don’t Use Too Much Makeup:

Makeup can help enhance features in photos but stick to a more natural look if possible. Applying too much makeup will make it difficult to achieve a professional look in photos and may even appear distracting when viewed on the web. Keep it simple and light for optimal results!

6.      Avoid Looking Away From the Camera:

It may seem like common sense but looking away from the camera will not capture the connection you want from the person viewing your headshot.

7.      Don't Forget to Relax:

Above all else, remember to relax and be yourself! Your headshot should capture the essence of who you are so channel your energy into creating a genuine expression that will come across in your photos. With some practice and preparation, you can create a fantastic LinkedIn headshot that accurately represents your professional self!

By following these tips for how not to pose for your LinkedIn headshot, you will be sure to create a professional yet friendly photo that will leave a lasting positive impression on potential employers and recruiters.