Cherry Hill, NJ

Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Many businesspeople have posted photographs of themselves on LinkedIn, and other sites, that detract from their professionalism.

"Your image is conveyed through your photograph, and it's part of the first impression you make on others," according to business communications and etiquette expert Barbara Pachter, author of numerous books, including GREET! EAT! TWEET! She adds, "You want to post a photograph that is professionally appropriate. You want to look like a credible, approachable person, not like you just came from the beach."

Pachter, a former professional photographer, provides the following 10 guidelines for posting photographs of yourself on social media:

1. Post a headshot. This type of photograph highlights your head/face, but often shows your shoulders and part of your chest. You are the focus of the picture.

2. Choose a photo that flatters you Sounds obvious, but people don't always pay attention to their choice. This does not mean a glamour shot, but you should look like a competent professional in the photograph.

3. Appear in front of a clear, uncluttered background that is well lit. There shouldn't be any dark shadows obscuring your face. People must be able to see you clearly.

4. Make sure your face is in focus The background can be slightly out of focus, but your features need to be sharp, not blurred.

5. Wear appropriate professional or business-casual attire. Appear as you usually would in a business situation. This may also mean that you are freshly shaven, or wearing make-up and jewelry.

6. Look at the camera and keep your head straight. Women have a tendency to tilt their heads and they look less self-assured when they do.

7. Have a pleasant facial expression If you are frowning or scowling, why would someone want to hire or work with you?

8. Look like your photograph If your photo is more than 8-10 years old, people may be very surprised when they meet you. If you had long hair in your photo and now have short hair, people may not recognize you.

9. Be cautious with an environmental portrait This type of photo places you in a setting that relates to your profession. This is generally a wider shot and your face is a smaller part of the photograph. These pictures are often used as additional photos on a website, and are not recommended for headshot postings.

10. Hire a professional photographer If all of this seems overwhelming, hire someone who takes photos for a living. It's worth the investment.

Barbara Pachter is a speaker, coach and author of numerous business books, including The Power of Positive Confrontation and When the Little Things Count.

She specializes in business etiquette and communication for companies worldwide. Her client list features major organizations, including Microsoft, Pfizer, Chrysler, Cisco and Genentech.

For a review copy of GREET! EAT! TWEET! 52 Business Etiquette Postings To Avoid Pitfalls & Boost Your Career, contact: Joyce Hoff, 856.751.6141, or joyce@pachter.com

For a free copy of Pachter's communication e-newsletter, "Competitive Edge," your readers can call (856) 751-6141 (NJ) or go to www.pachter.com.

Barbara Pachter

President

Pachter and Associates

Cherry Hill, NJ

856-751-6141

First Url: Barbara Pachter's website

Second Url: Barbara Pachter's Blog