Most people on LinkedIn have a profile picture and almost everyone on Facebook and Twitter does.  Do me a favor… get out of the car before you take the picture!  Better yet, ask someone else to take it.  If you really want to go the extra mile, dress professionally and don’t act like you are flirting with the camera.

You don’t have to go all out and pay for a professional photographer.  If you do pay PLEASE do not do anything that screams glamorshots.  Your smartyphone will do OK, a SLR will be better and someone who actually knows what they are doing can be best.  Just ask around.  I bet one of your co-workers or friends has an interest in taking pictures.

Also, try to resist cutting yourself out of that group shot.  I know your hair looked really good that day but it would be better if you take a picture specifically for your head shot.

While I cannot guarantee that a good profile picture will land you your dream job, I have seen social media play a part in hiring decisions.  Remember, you only need one job.

Al

Without ambition one starts nothing. Without work one finishes nothing. The prize will not be sent to you. You have to win it.
Ralph Waldo Emerson