A solid LinkedIn profile is crucial for increasing your visibility, professional opportunities, and potential leads. Many people on the platform spend a substantial amount of time perfecting their headline, making their about sections interesting, and filling out their relevant experience. Even if these components of your profile are flawless, you still might not be getting the results you want from LinkedIn.
With more than 700 million users worldwide, you want your LinkedIn profile to stand out. One of the best ways to set yourself apart is to include an incredible background photo. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with the default photo, countless professionals use it. Some may not even know they can change it. Others decide to leave it as is. By uploading a high-quality image that reinforces your brand and who you are, you can set yourself apart from other LinkedIn profiles.
The Importance of a Great LinkedIn Background Photo
There are a few reasons why you should spend some time on your LinkedIn background photo. First, along with your profile photo, your background image is the first thing that visitors to your profile see. It’s your chance to create a lasting first impression. It allows you to showcase your brand and let people know what you’re all about before they start reading about you. It’s your opportunity to grab the attention of your visitors and draw them in.
How to Add and Remove Cover Photos
To add a cover photo to your LinkedIn profile:
1. Click on the “Me” image at the top of the LinkedIn home page.
2. Select “View Profile.”
3. Click the camera icon in the top corner of the background image.
4. Select “Upload Photo.”
5. Choose an image from the photos on your computer and click “Open.”
6. Select “Apply” if you are happy with the way the picture looks.
You can also reposition, change, or delete your background photo. View your profile and click on your current cover image to make your edits.
The Ideal LinkedIn Background Photo Dimensions
According to LinkedIn, the ideal size for background images is 1584 (width) by 396 (height). Your image must be a JPG, GIF, or PNG file no larger than 8 MB. It also must comply with the site’s User Agreement.
LinkedIn Background Photo Ideas to Make Your Profile Stand Out
The next question is, “How do I find a background photo that makes my profile stand out?” Let’s take a look at a few ideas to help you get the process started:
Your Products or Services
A high-quality photo of your products or services, such as a picture of your best-selling product, can help to generate interest in the visitor right from the get-go. You might also consider a picture of the tools you use, which can reinforce your brand.
What Your Customers Want
Instead of focusing on a specific product or service, use an image that showcases the benefits of what you provide. So, if you work in health insurance, consider a photo that showcases healthy people engaging in physical activity.
At Work
A natural photo of you at work can show the impact that you have. For instance, if you do any public speaking, an image of you mid-speech can be effective.
A Cityscape or Landscape
A location-based image can help create local connections. You could also use a more personal location image such as a cityscape of where you live or where you grew up. This adds a bit of personality to your page.
Your Cause
Does your business have a cause or mission? If so, consider showcasing it with your background photo. It can help create a connection with like-minded visitors. It also gives a bit of insight into what is important to you.
Where to Get High-Quality Photos for Free
You don’t have to use an image that you took yourself. You can find plenty of high-quality, and often free, photos online. Some places to look for your new background photo include:
· Canva
· Unsplash
· Pixabay
· Pexels
These sites can be overwhelming at first as they offer thousands of images. Use the search bar to narrow down your options and find pictures related to what you want to convey on your profile.
Places to Find LinkedIn Background Photo Inspiration
If you are still unsure about what to make your background photo, there are plenty of places to find inspiration:
· On LinkedIn. Look at what background photos those in your industry are using.
· Google searches. Perform a Google image search for your industry, interests, or mission.
· Pinterest. Browse Pinterest boards for images related to your industry, products, cause, and more.
· Look around your business. Try to view your business through the eyes of a client or customer. Look for something that stands out or that could help separate you from your competition.
Set Yourself Apart from the Rest
Your background image works with your profile photo to create a first impression. Don’t let it fall flat. With a great picture as your LinkedIn background, you can set yourself apart from your competition and keep visitors exploring your page.
