Follow these personal branding tips to make sure your Google profile picture is helping, not hurting, your professional brand.
Gmail is one of the most popular email services out there today. In fact, if you're using an antiquated email address like comcast.net or optonline.net, I urge you to create a Gmail account that's reserved for your job-search and networking activities.
That said, there is something you should know about your Gmail account. Every time you send an email, whether it's to a friend or a prospective employer, your profile photo is included in the message. While you have the option to leave this image blank, it's better for you to change your Gmail profile picture to one that reinforces your professional brand. Ideally, this should be the same photo you're using for your professional online profiles like LinkedIn.
When choosing your profile picture, opt for a standard headshot that supports your personal brand and portrays you as professional and friendly. Avoid using a group shot, an awkward selfie, or (my favorite) the cropped image where half of your hair is cut out. To avoid the image looking blurry, select a photo that's 250 x 250 pixels or larger.
To upload or change your Gmail profile picture, follow the steps below, courtesy of Gmail's Help Center:
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Amanda Augustine is the resident career expert for Talent Inc.'s suite of brands: TopResume, TopInterview, and TopCV. With more than 15 years of experience in the recruiting and career services industry, she is a certified professional career coach (CPCC) and resume writer (CPRW), helping professionals improve their careers and find the right job sooner. Follow Amanda on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for her latest advice.
