Writing Image Descriptions for LinkedIn
A practical guide to writing alt text that makes your LinkedIn images work for everyone.
Every image you post on LinkedIn can include alt text. Most people leave it blank.
This means screen reader users experience your post as: "Image."
Not helpful.
What Alt Text Is For
Alt text describes images for people who cannot see them. This includes:
Good alt text makes your content work for everyone.
The Basic Formula
For most images, follow this structure:
[What type of thing] + [what it shows] + [why it matters to your post]
Example: "Bar chart showing a 40% increase in engagement rates after implementing accessibility features."
Different Types of Images
Photos
Describe what is happening, not what things look like.
**Bad**: "Woman with brown hair in a blue shirt"
**Good**: "Professional speaking at a conference podium to a large audience"
Focus on the action and context, not physical descriptions of people.
Charts and Graphs
Describe the trend or key data point, not every detail.
**Bad**: "Line graph"
**Good**: "Line graph showing steady revenue growth from $1M in 2020 to $3M in 2024"
Screenshots
Describe what the screenshot shows and why it is relevant.
**Bad**: "Screenshot"
**Good**: "Screenshot of LinkedIn analytics showing 50K post impressions"
Infographics
Summarize the key information. You cannot describe every detail.
**Bad**: "Infographic about productivity"
**Good**: "Infographic listing 5 productivity tips: time blocking, single-tasking, regular breaks, clear priorities, and energy management"
Memes and Humor
Describe the image and explain the joke if needed.
**Good**: "Drake meme format: top panel shows Drake refusing 'writing without a plan' and bottom panel shows Drake approving 'using an outline first'"
What Not to Do
Do not start with "Image of" or "Picture of"
Screen readers already announce it is an image. This is redundant.
Do not describe every detail
Focus on what matters for understanding your post.
Do not stuff keywords
Alt text is for accessibility, not SEO manipulation.
Do not leave it blank
Something is always better than nothing.
Do not be overly formal
Write naturally. Describe it like you would to a friend.
LinkedIn-Specific Tips
Carousel Posts
Each slide can have alt text. Describe each slide individually. Include slide numbers if helpful.
"Slide 1 of 5: Title slide reading 'How to Write Better LinkedIn Posts'"
Profile Photos
Your profile photo alt text should help people identify you in professional contexts.
"Professional headshot of uxdiva.eth, smiling, wearing glasses"
Cover Images
Describe the branding or messaging.
"Cover image with the text 'AI Writing for Self Expression' on a dark blue gradient background"
How to Add Alt Text on LinkedIn
1. Upload your image
2. Click on the image in the composer
3. Select "Add alt text" or click the "Alt" button
4. Write your description (max 300 characters)
5. Save
It takes 30 seconds. Make it a habit.
Practice Examples
**Original**: You share a chart showing your content performance
**Alt text**: "LinkedIn analytics chart showing 300% increase in engagement after switching to accessible content formats"
**Original**: You share a photo from a speaking event
**Alt text**: "Speaker presenting to workshop attendees, with accessibility guidelines displayed on screen behind them"
**Original**: You share a quote graphic
**Alt text**: "Quote graphic with text: 'Clear writing is not simple thinking. It is simple expression of complex thinking.'"
Make It Automatic
Add alt text to every image you post. Every time. No exceptions.
It becomes automatic after a few weeks. And your content works for your whole audience.
Not just the ones who can see your images.
Copy for LinkedIn
Your LinkedIn images have something to say. Make sure everyone can hear them. Here is how to write alt text that actually works.
Full guide with examples on my site.
#AltText #Accessibility #LinkedInTips #InclusiveDesign