With more people than ever joining online networking sites, choosing the right photo (also called an avatar) to use is a very important part of creating your profile.
You may want a less formal photo on your Facebook personal profile, if this is going to be just for family and friends, but I would caution against uploading any shots you may regret sharing in future.
When it comes to your LinkedIn profile, as this is a professional network, remember the impression you want to give and choose an appropriately professional photo of yourself.
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.
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