A key to growing your personal brand online is having a good picture ready to use for your social networking profiles. Here are a few tips to help:

1. Intentional Picture. If you have a digital camera and a friend then all you’re lacking is taking the time and effort to get a few good shots of just you. They don’t have to be stuffy or have a pretty curtain background, just good shots that have a look that fits you.

2. Upper Body. In general, crop the picture if needed in order for your upper body (mainly shoulders & up) to be the focus.

3. Keep Handy. Keep the picture(s) handy in a folder on your computer so you can easily access them when creating new profiles.

4. Standard. In general, use the same picture or two for most of your profiles. This also helps you define a general look that defines your brand.

5. Genuine. Make sure the picture actually looks like you. When you meet someone online, they should be able to recognize you in person.

6. Just Do It. Don’t wait for a perfect picture. The important thing is to get a picture out there that follows the tips above and represents brand you.

Have any tips of your own? Help us out and comment below.