This task can not be understated. Picking your profile is more important than picking your childrens’ names, so yeah it’s a big deal.
Some choose simply the best photo they can find, which is not reccomended because you’re going to be a big let down when you see old friends. Set the expectations low. in my case I chose a photo where I don’t even have nice clothes on.
Next is the funny photo. Everyone’s a comedian these days. this too can be disracting. I may not want to be your friend when I get a request of you in you Halloween costume from 5 years ago as Napolean Dynamite. Or maybe you’re making a goofy face in a photo. Again in my case I have an avg photo of me on a typical hot day at the beach just looking like my everyday self.
With all that being said you’re not running for office. I’m talking to you realtors. “I have a suit on and Bluetooth headset, I must be really important.” Using myself as an example again just be yourself.
Lastly we all know what Photoshop is so no need to put yourself next to the president, or accepting the gold medal, or God forbid your head on a stuffed animal. It’s just tacky and the worst offense of all.
Your profile pic says everything about you. Keep it simple, true to yourself, and most of all keep it real. That’s what I did and I get comments on my photo all the time. Hope this helps.