What does your profile photo say about you?

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One of the most important parts of filling out your online profile for the social networking sites you decide to join is to upload a photo of yourself.  Even the most technically challenged can usually manage to follow the instructions (even I managed it!).  The bigger challenge is choosing the right avatar* for the right network.  I mentioned this briefly in a previous post and thought I’d expand on this area today.

* Wikipedia definition: “an avatar is a computer user’s representation of himself/herself or alter ego.”

Is there an ideal photo type? You can’t go far wrong with a slightly formal head and shoulders shot – but it’s important that you be shown smiling!  I’ve seen some really miserable faces and been put off connecting with them. And if you’re planning to use your photo on other marketing materials in the near future, I’d suggest splashing out and having some professional shots done.

If you’re still using the default avatar you could be inadvertently sending out a message to your online contacts that you can’t be bothered or that you have something to hide (spammers tend to like to stay anonymous in this way).  So you don’t want to give either of these impressions.

Using a cartoon or caricature is fun for a family and friends networking site.  Depending on what line of business you’re in, give a thought to what it might say to those who are considering connecting with you on a professional level.  But if you’re an artist or in graphic design your avatar could showcase your talent!

Similarly photos of a cute pet, flowers or nature shots would all be great for your personal networks and could even be appropriate in the right business setting:

• If your business is connected with animals, perhaps you’re a veterinary surgeon, in pet insurance, or dog walking.
• Flowers could obviously be used by florists, wedding planners, home design  and gardening services.
• Nature shots would work well for photographers, holistic therapists, or adventure parks

Company logos certainly give a business-like impression and can look great in Facebook Pages, groups or events, LinkedIn groups and even in a corporate Twitter account.

I’ve deliberately chosen to use the same photo throughout all the networking sites I belong to.  I find it helps for instant recognition amongst a sea of avatars (it’s me again!).  When people change their avatars on Twitter I often miss what they tweet until I realise what’s happened and get used to their new appearance.

Personally I find it harder to connect at a more personal level unless I see someone’s face – but that’s just my opinion!  If you want to read more about what your avatar says about you, here’s a recent post from Social Media Today.

What do you think? Do you prefer photo or other images?

About Louise

Louise Barnes-Johnston has been working in social media marketing since 2007 after realising that it was a powerful marketing tool which would enable her clients to raise the profile of their businesses on the internet, even when working to a limited budget. Her specialism is in researching social media practices; trying out the most effective online tools and then sharing the best of them with her clients.