What should your profile picture be on LinkedIn?

Reviewing LinkedIn’s Top Voices: Headshot Critiques and Tips for a Winning Profile

Your LinkedIn profile picture is often the first impression you make. Whether you’re a CEO or just starting your career, your headshot is your calling card—it communicates your brand, your confidence, and your approachability. Recently, I took a deep dive into the LinkedIn Top Voices list, specifically focusing on the influencer category, to critique and review their profile headshots. In this article, I’ll share my insights, based on LinkedIn’s guidelines for the perfect profile picture, and offer tips that can help you present yourself in the best light.

In this video and blog I review what the top 10 Top Voice’s on LinkedIn use for their headshot profile pictures. My intent in reviewing these images is to educate people on what their headshots say about them so we can all learn what makes the best LinkedIn Profile Pictures. I did not take any of these headshots.

What Makes a Great LinkedIn Headshot Profile Picture?

LinkedIn suggests a high-quality image where you look like yourself, dress for the job you want, and use a clean background. The photo should feature your face prominently, with good lighting and a relaxed, confident expression.

Now, let’s explore how some of the most influential figures on LinkedIn measure up to these guidelines.

1. Bill Gates – Exactly as Expected

A professional headshot photographer photographed Bill Gates’ headshot. The image features Rembrandt lighting, which is known for its ability to highlight facial features with a soft shadow. The solid colour background is unobtrusive, allowing his expression to take center stage. Gates’ headshot ticks all the boxes: high-quality, well-lit, and a perfect representation of his professional brand.

Tip: If you want to emulate Gates, focus on achieving balanced lighting and a neutral background to keep the focus on your face.

2. Richard Branson – Authentic to him not you

Richard Branson’s headshot is as adventurous as his personality. Photographed in a space suit, the image captures his iconic free-spirited nature. However, the smile here is a bit understated compared to what we’re used to seeing from Branson. The photo, while memorable, might be better suited for a brand campaign rather than a LinkedIn profile based on the Under Armor logo.

Tip: Your LinkedIn photo should be professional but still reflect who you are. A natural smile and attire that aligns with your brand can make a significant impact.

3. Mohamed El-Erian – 10% can make all the difference

Mohamed El-Erian’s headshot exudes approachability and professionalism. His attire is spot-on, and his overall demeanour is welcoming. However, the smile could be dialled down just a touch to project a more polished and confident image. It’s a near-perfect shot, but a small adjustment could elevate it to the next level. I don’t want to see a gap between his upper teeth and his lower lip.

Tip: The right balance with your expression is key. Aim for a smile that’s both inviting and professional—one that conveys confidence without appearing overly casual.

4. James Altucher – Unique Character Branding

James Altucher’s headshot stands out for his super curly hair making his image memorable. However, the natural light used in the shot is a bit overexposed, which detracts from the overall quality. This photo also has a low contrast. Possibly it was photographed with a cell phone or it could be photographed on film. I would prefer to see an image with more contrast.

Tip: Embrace your unique characteristics. Maybe it’s super curly hair or fashion choices.

5. Bernard Marr – One Step Too Far

Bernard Marr’s headshot has a bright green background that immediately grabs attention. I like the bright green background for a headshot because it stands out from the competition. Bernard then has a fine white pattern on top of the green background. The white pattern is too fine of a pattern, resulting in pixelation on a small screen like your phone. I would remove the white pattern and zoom in a bit more so his face is 60% of the LinkedIn Profile Photo

Tip: “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off.” – Coco Chanel. Have a bold background, or big hair, or statement glasses, but not all three.

6. Sallie Krawcheck – Human Connection Through a LinkedIn Profile Picture

Sallie Krawcheck’s headshot effectively conveys her media presence, but it lacks the human connection that a headshot has the opportunity to create. While it’s clear that she’s an established figure, a more straightforward headshot would help foster a stronger connection with her audience on LinkedIn.

Tip: A headshot or LinkedIn Profile Picture is a very important specific photo. Choose the right shot for success!

7. Ian Bremmer – Dynamic but Unreccognizable

Ian Bremmer is using a photo of himself public speaking on a stage. It is not a headshot. He is too far away from the camera making him completely unrecognizable in his LinkedIn Profile Picture. LinkedIn profile pictures are so small, you must use a photo that is shoulders up. If the photo is any wider, you will simply be unrecognizable.

Tip: Action shots are for your content posts or articles. Your LinkedIn profile photo should be a headshot focusing on making direct, confident eye contact with the viewer.

8. Jill Schlesinger – Behind the Scenes vs. Front and Center

Jill Schlesinger’s behind-the-scenes shot is a great storytelling image, but for a LinkedIn profile picture, a direct headshot would be more engaging. While the photo tells a story, it lacks the directness needed for a LinkedIn profile.

Tip: LinkedIn is all about making connections. A straightforward headshot with a clear focus on your face will better engage your audience.

Conclusion: Your LinkedIn Headshot is Your Digital Handshake

Your LinkedIn headshot is more than just a photo—it’s your digital handshake. It’s the first step in making a lasting impression and building professional relationships. Whether you’re aiming for the polished look of Bill Gates or the adventurous spirit of Richard Branson, the key is to find a balance that reflects your personality while adhering to professional standards. Take the time to invest in a great headshot, and you’ll set yourself up for success on LinkedIn.

Take a look at my Corporate Headshots for examples of what you should be using as a LinkedIn profile picture