Adding A Picture
Each time you create a new social networking profile - whether it’s Legal OnRamp, LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook or one of the many others - the question inevitably arises: do I have to add my picture? The technical answer is no, of course you don’t have to. But does your profile work harder for you if you do? Several factors suggest the answer to that question is yes. People like to put a name with a face, and are usually more comfortable communicating with someone they can “see.” If the end game for your profile is meeting people in person and gaining new business, it makes sense to present the whole you from the beginning, which includes your appearance. Since most computers now include a camera feature, getting that perfect headshot is easier than ever. I’ve spoken to many people who get annoyed – or worse, ignore – people who don’t include their photo in their social networking profile. Has anyone noticed a boost in his or her profile traffic after adding a picture?
Comments
I’ve gone back and forth on whether to include a photo in my profiles, but ultimately I’ve found that it including one is a good idea. It indicates that you’re opening up a bit and actually engaging in the forum. People respect that and are more prone to interact with you. Just make sure the picture is appropriate to the networking community.
I waited a while before posting a photo to a social networking site. Once I finally posted a photo, I had three people reach out to me within hours of posting it. I agree with Tom that it makes people more prone to interact. The Internet is such a huge community that posting a photo makes the difference between appearing to be a stranger v. an active community member.
I think it is important to remember these are "Social Networks", not having your picture on your social network page sends a negative anti-social message. I have also found it much easier to find someone I am looking for when there is a picture available, too many times I have searched for someone and the search has found several people by that name... I found the person based on their picture. These fields are there for a reason, I suggest using ALL of them if you expect your social networking activities to payoff.
I put my picture not only on these "social network" sites that I am registered with but I also have my picture attached to my E-mail signature because I think it is important. Giving yourself that presence does make a difference.
One trend among social networking sites is to use "avatars" in place of an actual photo. These may be caricatures of the individual, or even graphics that are humorous or convey a political message. During the 2008 election, for example, many users of Twitter, Facebook, etc... replaced their photos with political graphics. Before using any kind of avatar, you should keep in mind that your profile may be viewed by business contacts and other colleagues, who may find such material offensive. Getting a laugh is one thing. Losing a client over an avatar is quite another. When in doubt, just use your smiling face.