A picture for your LinkedIn profile should reflect a professional image.  What does that mean?

That does not mean the picture has to be taken by a professional photographer. What I mean is that the picture should show you in professional attire, something you would wear to a networking event or to a job interview.

The picture should be a close up of your face, a so-called "head shot", that allows someone who has met you at a networking event to recognize you on line -- or vice versa: if they have seen your LinkedIn picture they should be able to find you at a networking event without having to peer at everyone's name tag.  Don't hide your face behind sunglasses and a hat or by showing only your side profile.

Also keep in mind that your LinkedIn profile represents YOU. Therefore make sure only you are actually in the picture, not you and your spouse, you and party guests or you and your entire wedding party.

LinkedIn is not facebook. Therefore avoid pictures showing you engaged in a hobby, like holding up a big fish or being a small figure on an expansive ski slope.

Reserve company logos for your LinkedIn business page. If you are an owner of a small business you can set up a company page on LinkedIn free of charge. Just like on facebook, this should be a separate page from your personal page. So don't hide behind a logo on your personal profile.

The most important thing, though, regardless of all of the above: SMILE!  Look at other people's pictures and notice how much more you are drawn to those pictures of people smiling rather than those with a serious face.  Being approachable is half the battle.

Do you agree or disagree with the above points?  Share your feedback in the comments.

Yes. LinkedIn is a free networking web site for business people that is growing by 6 new members per second.  Would you want to miss out on a potential lead source that only requires minimal time to manage once your profile is set up?

There are account upgrades available for varying types of users (recruiter, job seeker, sales & business) for varying monthly subscription fees. However, I think that one can accomplish a lot without having to pay.  Here are some of the main things to remember when embarking on a new social media journey on LinkedIn:

-  Complete your profile. All sections should be filled in as completely as possible.
-  Have a professional photo.
-  Join a few groups.
-  Expand your network.

Upcoming blog posts will delve into more details on each of these segments so do check back or sign up for the RSS feed.


Your feedback is appreciated.  Do you agree or disagree with the above.  Let us know. in the comment section and make it a great day

The short answer is "absolutely yes".

Business cards are definitely still needed in 2013 and likely for years to come. They are a quick and easy way to exchange contact information, provide an option for writing a quick note to oneself and a visual reminder of the contact via the company logo and possibly photo of the person who handed you their card.

Of course there are industries and age groups where contact information is shared instantly via the use of smart phones.  However, it is my belief that these are still in the minority.  I attend networking and other business meetings on a regular basis and having something tangible is still the norm.

That does not mean the cards have to be expensive or elaborate. There are plenty of ways to create your own cards using templates from such companies as Vistaprint. 

It is my view that anyone who owns a business or works in sales needs to carry business cards when attending any business or business-related networking function. I would even suggest to have several business cards with you at social events. You never know whom you might meet at a party, dinner with friends or sports event.

Do you agree or disagree? Share your views in the comment section.