Want to make your LinkedIn profile pop with a personalized picture frame? While LinkedIn offers standard frames like “Open to Work” and “Hiring,” many people prefer something that truly reflects their individual brand or services. This guide shows you how to create a distinctive frame that sets you apart.

LinkedIn’s built-in frames are useful, but they can be limiting. If you’re offering specialized services or want to emphasize a specific brand message, a custom frame is a great alternative. It is a powerful way to enhance your professional image.

Creating a custom frame is easier than you might expect. You can use readily available graphic design tools to achieve this. This article offers insights into designing one using common platforms, allowing you to incorporate any text or design features that align with your brand.

Crafting Your Image

User-friendly graphic design platforms offer a variety of image editing features, simplifying the process of creating visuals. Templates are often available; add your headshot, and you instantly have a polished, framed picture. These platforms make customization incredibly accessible.

Presentation Software as a Design Tool

Presentation software, is surprisingly versatile. Beyond presentations, it provides image editing capabilities. Pre-made templates are often available for download, making it easy to create a LinkedIn photo frame. These templates can be a huge time-saver.

Making Your Frame with Presentation Software

Creating a frame from scratch offers maximum customization. Below are general guidelines for using presentation software for this purpose.

Begin with a new, blank presentation. Ensure no text boxes are present on the slide. Add your professional headshot. A well-lit, forward-facing, smiling image works best. Introduce a circular shape. Maintain a perfect circle by holding the shift key while drawing.

Modify the circle to have no fill, leaving just the outline. Adjust the outline’s thickness; a width around 40 pixels is a good starting point. Choose a color that complements your brand.

For a partial frame, use a gradient line. Set two gradient stops: one matching your chosen color and the other fully transparent. Adjust the angle to achieve your desired effect.

To incorporate curved text, insert WordArt. Choose a style, replace the placeholder text, and select it. Use the Shape Format or Drawing Tools Format menu to apply a transformation effect, curving the text as needed.

Finally, save your combined image (headshot and frame) as a PNG or JPG file. Upload this new image to your LinkedIn profile, adjusting the zoom and position as needed. You are all set.

Important Considerations

If you’re using a custom frame and are also “Open to Work,” be mindful of your settings. To keep your custom frame visible, share your job-seeking status with recruiters only. Sharing with all members will overlay LinkedIn’s default “Open to Work” frame, hiding your custom design.

Enhancing Your LinkedIn Presence

Customizing your LinkedIn profile picture frame is a great method to individualize your presence and ensure your image matches your message. The process is relatively easy regardless of which tool you use. This gives you the creative control to craft a frame that perfectly reflects your brand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have a custom frame while being ‘Open to Work’?

Yes, but select “Share with recruiters only” in settings. Selecting to share with everyone will use LinkedIn’s default.

What if I don’t have specific design software?

Many design tools work! Several free or paid options can accomplish the same customization goals.

Does LinkedIn approve custom frames?

LinkedIn allows users to use custom images, including those with custom-designed frames. Ensure it appears professional and aligns with your brand identity.

How does a custom picture help me?

A custom frame visually represents your unique brand, making your profile more distinct and helping communicate your message at a glance.

Will it change my profile’s visibility?

The frame itself won’t directly change visibility, but a professional and engaging picture can lead to higher engagement and more profile views.