Don’t Let Your Profile Picture Cost You The Job

To find a job you need to have a web presence. A web presence helps recruiters learn about who you are, what you’ve done, and why you are the right person for the job. Your web presence plays a major role in your job search.

The easiest way to make your online appearance is via social media outlets like Facebook or LinkedIn. What’s the first thing you notice when you view someone’s profile? Probably the profile picture.

What does your profile picture look like? Are you drinking beer at a party? Dressed up like Elmo for Halloween? Playing catch with your dog? Enjoying the surf? Taking a self portrait in a mirror with your smart phone? Or have you made the decision to have a profile picture that will help you get the job?

LinkedIn and Facebook will play a role in the recruiting process and your profile picture is a major part of your web presence. Did you know that 84% of job seekers have a Facebook profile? Nearly 100% of job seekers use LinkedIn. Do you? If not, set up your web presence today.

Recruiters spend 19% of their online time looking at your profile picture. That is more time than your skills or experience. Maybe you should think twice about the picture you choose to post online.

Here are a few tips to help you choose a professional profile picture:

• Use a photo of you – This helps distinguish you from other people with your same name.
• Keep it recent – Don’t use a picture of you as a cute, chubby baby. Post a pic of you from the past year.
• Focus on you – No dogs, cats, beer cans, fish, friends, family. Only you.
• Wear appropriate clothing – If you are apply for a job where you need to wear a suit to the office, wear a suit in your photo. If you want to work for a rafting company, wear a life vest.
• Consider the types of photos you can post – Head shots are always acceptable, but an action shot may be appropriate too.
• Smile – Smiles are contagious. It’s a good idea to make your recruiter smile back.

Your profile picture can make or break your chances of finding a job. Recruiters will see your profile picture. You may be able to get away with a more casual photo on Facebook than on LinkedIn. Take the time to choose a professional profile picture. It’s also wise to censor your other pictures and content on your social media profiles. Learn about other  these LinkedIn mistakes too.

The easiest way to make an online appearance is via social media outlets like Facebook or LinkedIn. When you combine a web presence with a “hire-me” profile picture, you’re one step closer to finding your dream job.