By Debbie Balfour | WBN News | April 29, 2025

On LinkedIn, first impressions aren’t made in seconds—they’re made in milliseconds. Before someone even reads your headline, they’ve already judged your profile based on two things: your photo and your banner image.

If your photo is outdated, blurry, or overly casual, you’re losing credibility instantly. And if your banner is just the default blue background? You’re missing a massive opportunity to show what you’re about.

Here’s how to upgrade both without overthinking it:

Profile Photo Tips

  • Use a high-quality, close-up headshot with good lighting.
  • Smile and wear what you'd wear in a client meeting.
  • No distracting backgrounds—keep it clean and professional.
  • Think of this space as your personal billboard. Use it to reinforce your brand.
  • Add a clean graphic with your tagline, industry keywords, or a visual of you speaking, working, or helping clients.
  • Not a designer? Tools like Canva offer LinkedIn banner templates that make it easy.

These two visuals set the tone. They say, “I’m serious, I’m credible, and I know how to help you.” Or… they say, “I haven’t touched this since 2012.”

Control the message before you say a word. A strong photo and banner build instant trust, and trust builds business.

Debbie Balfour | Real Estate Investing Success Coach + Podcast Host
📍 Website: www.DebbieBalfour.com
📧 Email: Debbie@DebbieBalfour.com
🔗 LinkedIn: Debbie Balfour
▶️ YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@DebbieBalfour

HASHTAGS: #Debbie Balfour #LinkedIn For Business #LinkedIn Tips #LinkedIn Branding #First Impression Matters #Profile Optimization #Business Trust #WBNNews Langley #WBN News Abbotsford

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