Do You Need a Cover Image for Your LinkedIn Profile?

I've published this in other blog posts before, but I hate LinkedIn (I tagged the posts below so you can read why another time). The truth is, though, that LinkedIn is a necessary evil for individuals in the white collar world. I was recently helping a friend put their resume together - and in turn, their LinkedIn - when they asked whether or not they should include a Cover Image. My gut reaction was to say no, you don't need one (I don't even have one) . . . but I paused because I don't think we've done enough research on this subject.

When it comes to LinkedIn profiles, we know the basics: a professional profile picture, a catchy headline, and a solid "About" section. But one element that often gets overlooked is the LinkedIn cover image. It’s a powerful piece of real estate that sits at the very top of your profile. So, is it worth taking advantage of? If so, what should you choose for that space?

The Power of a LinkedIn Cover Image

The cover image is the first thing visitors see when they land on your profile, and it can convey a message about your brand, values, or industry at a glance. Think of it as a digital billboard—an opportunity to visually communicate who you are and what you do. Yet, some LinkedIn users, especially those who aren't "influencers," might leave this area blank or use a generic background.

Do I think a cover image will make or break the 'profile experience' if they're trying to attract potential employers or customers to their LinkedIn page? No, but I also think if an individual elects to put an image in that real estate, it needs to be beneficial to your page, otherwise it leaves an 'unprofessional' vibe. Let's do some research before we get that far.

Cover Images in Practice: A Look at LinkedIn Influencers vs. Regular Users

For this blog post, I peformed some light 'research' to see who's using Cover Images on their LinkedIn profiles, and who's not. Among four LinkedIn influencers (Neil Patel, Brene Brown, Kevin O'Leary, and Gary Vaynerchuk), all of them had branded cover images directly tied to their businesses or personal brands. These visuals included logos, tagline messages, or high-quality visuals that conveyed professionalism. These cover images are clearly a valuable part of how influencers establish and market their identities on LinkedIn.

On the other hand, when looking at six "regular" LinkedIn users, only four had cover images, with mixed results. Two of them showcased visuals related to their small businesses or side hustles, which is similar to the influencer approach but on a smaller scale. The remaining two, however, opted for scenic backgrounds with no clear connection to their personal or professional brands. While the scenic images might have personal meaning or aesthetic appeal, they don’t serve the same branding purpose as a professional cover image.

So, Do You Need a Cover Image?

When a Cover Image is Worth It:

1. You Want to Establish a Professional Brand: If you’re positioning yourself as an expert in your field or promoting your own business, a cover image can reinforce your brand.

2. You Have a Visual Identity to Showcase: For people in visually-driven industries, like design, marketing, or hospitality, a cover image lets you create a memorable impression that reflects your work.

3. You’re Actively Job Searching: A polished LinkedIn profile—including a cover image—shows that you’re serious about your career. It’s an opportunity to leave a lasting impression on recruiters and employers who are just a click away.
   

When a Cover Image May Not Be Necessary:

1. Your LinkedIn Use Is Limited: If you rarely log in or your profile isn’t important to your career growth right now, this extra effort may not add significant value.

2. You’re Still Exploring Your Brand: If you’re in a phase of figuring out what you want to convey to the world professionally, it may be better to leave it blank until you have a clearer idea.

Tips for Selecting an Effective Cover Image

If you decide a cover image is for you, it’s crucial to choose something that reflects your goals on LinkedIn. Here are a few approaches:

1. Brand Your Image: If you own a business or personal brand, let your cover image do the talking. For instance, you might include your logo, tagline, or a photo that embodies your brand’s essence. A well-designed graphic or a professional photo that represents what you do will make an instant impression on visitors.

2. Industry-Specific Visuals: If you work in tech, finance, or another niche, consider using imagery related to your industry. This could be something as straightforward as a modern office space for consultants or a stylized computer workstation for tech professionals.

3. Highlight Your Unique Skills: Are you known for a particular skill set or niche? Make your cover image a visual representation of what makes you unique. For example, an architect might showcase one of their projects, while a public speaker might use an image from a recent event.

4. Incorporate Your Values: Many professionals, especially those passionate about a cause, choose imagery that reflects their values. If sustainability, for example, is a cornerstone of your professional identity, consider using an image that embodies this value.

5. Avoid Generic Imagery: Landscapes and cityscapes can be beautiful, but unless they’re relevant to your personal or professional brand, they might come off as generic. The best images have a reason for being there—they connect in some way to who you are and what you do.

Final Takeaways: Is a Cover Image Essential?

While a LinkedIn cover image isn’t strictly necessary, it’s a tool that can elevate your profile if used strategically. For those looking to grow their professional visibility, create a personal brand, or even signal to recruiters that they’re actively job hunting, a well-thought-out cover image can be a differentiator. However, if LinkedIn is less central to your professional life or you’re still figuring out what you want your online presence to convey, leaving the space blank might be a wiser choice.

Ultimately, your LinkedIn cover image should serve as a visual extension of your professional identity. If you choose to use one, make sure it communicates something meaningful about who you are, what you do, or what you stand for.