As Facebook users, we’ve all labored over picking out the perfect profile. As business owners, we’ve pulled our hair out of our heads trying to come up with the most professional profile picture that will give viewers an insight into the company.
Now, with Facebook timeline you have yet another picture to choose; the timeline cover photo. The question is, how can you maximize the use of your profile picture and timeline cover photo in order to give yourself the most professional-looking Facebook page?
As an example, let’s take a look at the Social Stage Facebook Page in order to understand the difference:
In order for the photos to work successfully in tandem and compliment each other, each photo should be different as they each serve different purposes.
Profile Picture
When choosing a profile picture as a company, you have to keep in mind that the purpose of a personal profile picture is different than that of a business profile picture.
The profile picture is highlighted in blue in the picture below:
A personal profile picture is meant to show your face- the whole reason why Facebook is named so. However, Facebook wasn’t created with the thought of business, so having an actual face is not the same. The face of your company isn’t going to actually belong to someone; it’s going to be your brand or logo- the only face that is recognized in the business world.
This way, when you comment, share, or like photos you will be building recognition for your company, and not yourself. If you wanted to build recognition for yourself, it’s best to just use your personal account.
If you feel as though your logo isn’t going to convey your company’s essence enough, it’s time to either change your logo or let your cover take some of the creative load off your back.
Timeline Cover Photo
With the timeline cover photo, you can be as creative as you like, as long as you take the correct precautions in keeping your photo professional.
The timeline cover is highlighted in blue in the picture below:
In keeping your photo professional, you have to use your best judgement, but if you aren’t sure about the photo, don’t use it, as your uncertainty will surely be mirrored in your customers. If you as a CEO don’t know that it is professional, how can you expect your customers to know?
Some good cover photo ideas are to use an advertisement photo you have done, a special promotion you might be having, as well as customers enjoying your product or services. If your business relies on location, having a nice photo of the location would also be acceptable. People love sharing creative examples to their friends, so put your creative hat on and try to create a unique cover by making the profile and banner pictures work together.
The trick to having both your photos work for you is by having your company face (your logo), as a profile picture, and something more creative for your timeline cover photo. The possibilities are endless, but remember- if you doubt the professionalism of your page, your customers will too.
Stay Social.
