Do I really need to put a "professional" picture on my Linkedin account?

I’m also of the opinion that requiring a photo before an interview is a bit of a personal violation. However, I do have a fairly nice-ish looking photo on my LinkedIn. Nothing “professional”, but my selfie game was on fleek that day. haha.

I guess like anything else it depends on what you want to happen. Are you more concerned with getting a job anywhere (thus, you’d do whatever to increase your page views), or do you want an interview with a place as fun as you are?

I guess in much the same way I could have left out the “causes I believe in” section, but I have no interest in working for uber-Conservatives again, and those are the only people who would go “Civil rights? BAH!”

Do you really want to work for a company who wouldn’t give you an interview/job because you used an avatar?

I have a photo on mine (as do all of my contacts who have anything, I think), but I can understand not putting one.

I say go for it.

I’m looking for my ideal workplace, or close enough. I don’t want just another job. I have one of those.

Fun picture it is!

It depends on why you’re using LinkedIn. If you’re using it to connect with people professionally, then a photo with you in an unprofessional setting sends them a message (whether you intend it to or not). Similarly, an avatar says something about you. The message you send, may not be reflect the employee they want. Even if it is a fun place to work. I see LinkedIn as a work tool. People judge you based on your profile. So what message do you want to send them? If having an avatar narrows my access to a great employer, and I’m looking for work, I personally wouldn’t put up an avatar. It’s hard enough to get a job, without cutting myself out because I used an avatar instead of a photograph.

I don’t have a photo on my profile. I should do. It’s on my list of things to put right on that page. Apparently, profiles with photos attract more attention.

As to photographs before interview, I agree with you. I don’t think it’s necessary and I agree it opens up opportunities for employers to discriminate. If your resume, selection criteria present you as an interviewable option for a position, you should get an interview. Regardless of how you look. If you turn up on the day dressed like a scruff, you probably won’t get the job. However, your colour, weight, height (or other features) etc. etc. shouldn’t influence whether you’re interviewed or employed.

To add to what I wrote above. The employer isn’t the only person who looks at LinkedIn. Their clients may also refer to LinkedIn. If the image you present doesn’t reflect the image a company wants their staff to present, that might cut you out of their selection process. Even if their workplace is fun and modern, they presumably want to appear as professional to their clients.

Mine isn’t a professional business shot, but it is a decent photo of me. I agree that we shouldn’t need them, but that’s the way of the world today. Boo.

Good thing I’m cute. :)

My linked pic looks like it was taken in the kitchen, but the cabinets in the bathrooms match. Guess where I was sitting?

Haha