the linkedin violation

I violated a cardinal rule on LinkedIn.

Well, that’s what a LinkedIn expert told me on a recent networking call.

Apropos of nothing, she looked me in the eyes and said, “The picture you have on your LinkedIn profile violates every. single. rule. on LinkedIn.”

She was dead serious. “Go get new headshots, and soon.” I thanked her for her guidance, ended the call, and changed nothing.

Here is that picture:

According to LinkedIn’s profile photo guidelines:

“Your profile photo should be a clear, professional image of yourself. LinkedIn does not allow company logos, emojis, cartoons, landscapes, animals, words or phrases, stock images, childhood or baby photos, or depictions of others (including celebrities and fictional characters).”

Do you see mention of pencil sharpeners? Neither do I.

That expert made me wonder about expertise. When you receive expert advice, how do you know whether or not you should take it?

It’s tempting to follow. After all, they’re the experts.

But do you ever stop to ask if it’s really necessary?

• Do you need to invest in a new website when the real issue is client enrollment?

• Should you file for the trademark your lawyer recommended even if your podcast hasn’t launched yet?

• When your colleagues get certified, should you jump on the bandwagon? Will it boost your career or just delay your financial success?

The allure is undeniable, even to a seasoned entrepreneur like me. Business owners often give the impression that they’re making piles of cash. I don’t know them. I have no proof of their revenue. Even so, I’ve changed the way I do business based on my own absurd assumptions. Successful-looking strangers can be very seductive.

Think twice before taking advice, even from experts.

If you’ve been eyeing the competition a lot lately, it’s time to take a break. When experts tell you you’re doing it all wrong, take a breath. Even better, sleep on it.

See if what you’ve been told aligns with your needs and where you wanna go. Instead of asking 52 friends what they think, trust yourself. If it doesn’t feel exciting or sound promising, let it go. You can always circle back.

See you soon,

jill