What does your LinkedIn Profile say about you?

They say a picture is worth a thousand words – if you were to write a thousand word post, you’d probably take your time, create multiple drafts, do some research, and maybe even show it to friends/colleagues/mentors prior to posting. So why do some people post an image of themselves on their LinkedIn profile or business website that was probably done in a few minutes in an office by someone they asked to just take their picture? Or worse, a cutout from a picture taken a their cousin’s wedding?

When you’re writing something, you’re likely doing so because you want some outcome – cause people to think, act, or react. You may think about how the reader will read your words, how it comes across, does if offend, is it clear, are you writing it in a way that keeps the reader’s interest, etc.. Or perhaps you’re just writing something to “get something off your chest”.

Regardless, the point is there is a purpose, effort, desired outcome, some level of strategy, and desired impression that guides your writing. Studies show that when someone looks at a page that has both text and images, the reader’s eye is immediately drawn to the images first, then the text. Those images create a first impression, set the tone in the viewer’s mind as they read the page. Magazines, well designed websites, marketing materials all have understood this for years and use imagery and colors to grab the viewers attention and set the tone for reading text.

Simeon is a transitioning military service member who has a passion for improving healthcare outcomes for people. He came to me via the Portraits for Patriots program, a nationwide organization of headshot photographers providing complementary headshots for transitioning military service members. Simeon is determined to break into the medical device sales industry, leveraging his experience while in the military and pursuing his passion. We talked a bit about how this role is more than just a sales person hawking some new item – these people are often highly trained/skilled and knowledgeable in the particular devices they’re selling. They often are called into emergency surgeries to provide critical information to surgeons on which device/solution would be best for them to use as part of the surgery.

His LinkedIn profile reflects his experience, goals, and passion for the new endeavor he’s pursuing – this is an important part of his job search. And his new headshot creates a first impression that supports/amplifies the rest of his profile – you can see the determination/passion – and it didn’t take a 1,000 words.

Thank you for your service Simeon, and best of success in your next chapter! Your image says it all!