Do I Really Need a Picture on My LinkedIn Profile?

Yes, you do need to complete your LinkedIn profile with a photo!  Here are 3 compelling reasons why, and only 1 valid excuse not to do it.

1. Your profile is likely making the first impression for you. Prospective clients and employers may have your pitch/resume and, wanting to know more about you, check out your LinkedIn page. A good photo can make a positive impression; otherwise, your profile is likely forgettable since we are all visual creatures.
2. You will get more views (11x times more) if you have a photo. You need this traffic to be approached for interviews, to build your client base, to develop an extensive network to grow leads and gather information, etc. As a recruiter, I will definitely contact the normal-looking lawyer compared to others with similar profiles but no picture.
3. Your picture will help people remember you. I talk to a lot of attorneys, and it always helps me to glance at their LinkedIn profile with a picture to jog my memory about them. Additionally, lawyers with common names need a picture to distinguish themselves from all the other people with similar names.

Cost is no excuse. I have seen multiple events offering free LinkedIn photo shoots. While you can’t beat free, professional photographers can be very reasonable about taking LinkedIn headshots.

Lawyers often cite privacy as a reason not to post a picture. However, once you’re a member of a bar, the state puts out public information about you anyway, so it’s not likely you can hide much. The one time I think privacy is a good reason to avoid the picture is if you are a prosecutor or victim of stalking and you do not want criminals to target you.