If you are a professional in North America, there is a high probability that you have a LinkedIn profile. And it is growing rapidly attracting more users globally. With 380 Million users, LinkedIn is rapidly growing and has established itself as the go-to place for Networking, Business Insights, and Thought Leadership. And not to forget, a powerful Recruiting Platform.

As an active user for 10 years, I have seen many LinkedIn profiles. But I am baffled by the amount of LinkedIn profiles out there without a picture. Personally, I don’t connect with someone who doesn’t have a picture (unless I know who that person is). A profile with a picture is more trust-worthy to me.

I am sure you have heard of the phrase “A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words”. The same applies to LinkedIn – your picture is actually the first thing people see on your LinkedIn profile.

LinkedIn is a Professional Platform. Think of it as a Virtual Networking event, or even your Billboard. Would you attend a Networking event with a bag over your face or one of those Anonymous masks? I know that sounds ludicrous, and I know you wouldn’t. So why would your LinkedIn profile not have a picture?

Having a Profile picture definitely improves your credibility. People know who they are potentially connecting with.

The second reason is that it helps with recognition. Let’s say you meet a prospective employer at a networking event – and you made a favorable impression. You give her your business card, and also tell her that you will connect with her on LinkedIn.

Unless you have a very unique name that people will remember (Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker, Tony Stark,etc.) there is a good chance they may not recall it. Frankly, most people are terrible at remembering names.

The next day you send that employer a connection request on LinkedIn – if you have a picture they will recognize you & instantly accept your request. Otherwise, you join the ranks of the 100 other LinkedIn requests they receive on a daily basis.

Here are some additional literature on the Importance of Having a LinkedIn Profile

This takes me to the next point (Equally Important) regarding your LinkedIn picture. Make sure that you upload a Professional Picture. Facebook is a platform where you share your life events with your friends & family. Pinterest is an area where you share your hobbies, passions, dreams, etc. However, LinkedIn is totally different- it is a Professional Platform – so it is important to upload a Professional Picture.

Invest $50 in taking a Professional Head-shot. Alternatively, if you know how to take good pictures (I am terrible at it) – then ask a friend to help you out. Wear a suit or business casual dress and have a picture taken. In this article from LinkedIn, they share some tips on what type of Professional Photos to upload to LinkedIn.

Here are some articles, that give you insights on what type of photos not to upload on LinkedIn