Because your LinkedIn profile is often the first impression you make on recruiters and potential employers, it’s essential to make it count. A cover image is one way to stand out and make a strong visual impact.
What is a LinkedIn Cover Image?
A LinkedIn cover image is a banner at the top of your profile page (behind your profile picture).
Why is a LinkedIn Cover Image Important?
Your cover image can help you stand out in a sea of job seekers. It’s a chance to showcase your personality, expertise, and professional brand. A well-designed cover image can grab someone’s attention and entice them to read more about you.
More importantly, if you don’t include a cover image, your profile may look abandoned or incomplete, which could cause a recruiter or hiring manager to pass you by.
Different Style Choices for Your LinkedIn Cover Image
When it comes to creating a cover image, there are several style choices to consider:
- A custom banner with words and text that reinforces your personal brand: This is the best way to positively impact a visitor’s impression of you. Here are some examples:
2. Company logo or branding: Use your company’s logo or branding as your cover image will fortify your affiliation with a particular company or brand, but it’s best used if you’re not job-hunting.
3. Showcase your work: If you’re an artist or creative, you could feature your own work as your banner image.
4. Show what inspires you: Use an image that showcases your personality and interests. Perhaps you took a photo of a sunset you love, or you’re a hiker and want to feature a mountain range. Unsplash and Pexels are great resources for free images.
5. Demonstrate a core function of your work: Upload an image of people shaking hands, for example, if you’re in the business of closing deals. Or use a picture of someone working on a spreadsheet if you’re a data analyst. Unsplash and Pexels include countless images of people at work.
How to Implement Your LinkedIn Cover Image
Implementing a cover image is easy:
1. Choose the Right Image: Choose an image that reflects your personal brand and professional goals. Make sure it’s high-quality and visually appealing. If you need to edit images, Canva makes it easy.
2. Crop and Resize: LinkedIn recommends a cover image size of 1584 x 396 pixels. Make sure to crop and resize your image to fit these dimensions.
3. Upload Your Image: Go to your LinkedIn profile, click on the camera icon in the top left corner of your cover image, and upload your photo.
How a LinkedIn Cover Image Helped Attract a Recruiter’s Attention
Sarah was a recent college graduate searching for her first job in marketing. She had a solid resume and experience, but she was struggling to get noticed by recruiters. Sarah decided to update her LinkedIn profile with a new cover image with a graphic she had created for Instagram and statistics about how it boosted engagement. Within a week, she received a message from a recruiter who was impressed by her cover image and wanted to set up an interview.
Similarly, John was a graphic designer looking for freelance work. He updated his LinkedIn cover image with a portfolio of his best work. Within days, he received multiple inquiries from potential clients impressed by his visual portfolio.
A LinkedIn cover image is an essential part of your professional brand.
It’s an opportunity to showcase your personality, expertise, and professional goals. By choosing the right image and implementing it effectively, you can make a strong first impression and attract the attention of recruiters and potential employers.
