As of March 30, 2012, all Facebook Pages will be converted to Timeline. And part of the new design includes a large cover image, 851 px by 315 px. Now if your image is larger or smaller than this, don’t fret. Facebook will automatically resize and crop if needed, and then allow you to adjust the part of the cropped photo that shows. Do keep in mind, however, that your cover image has to be at least 720 pixels wide.

But how do you choose a Cover Image?

For some, it’s a paralyzing experience. It feels like such a significant decision and folks aren’t sure what to do. But relax. While of course the cover image does have a reflection on your business, it’s also still true that the majority of interactions for your Page will still occur on the News Feed of Facebook, and not on the Page itself. And you can also change your Cover Photo at any time, so if you don’t get it right the first time you can still change it.

So what kind of Cover Photo should you choose? Here are some tips:

• If you are a novice when it comes to photo editing software, choose a photo that represents your business. Your Cover Image doesn’t HAVE to be Photoshopped perfection. For example, I chose a photo for my Facebook Page that shows me speaking at a company’s National Conference. This photo shows that large companies hire me, that I am perceived as an expert, and that I am successful. Since this is what I want to portray, this photo represents my brand well. Your Cover Image could be a selection of your products, you speaking at a team meeting, a group shot of your team, or something similar.
  
• If you have a little skill with a photo editing program, you might want to put together something that includes words and photos. While you still need to comply with Facebook guidelines for cover photos (no calls to action), you can include your name, your company name and your title, etc. You might include products as your background, with overlayed photos that show more of the business (like team photos, convention, incentive trips, etc.), and an inspirational saying. Then your profile image (the small square photo) can be a headshot of yourself.

Here are some cover photos I’ve seen of direct sellers that may give you some inspiration:

This Pampered Chef consultant includes a subtle recruiting message along with a food photo.

This Cover Image by a Shaklee leader highlights her team, which can be incredibly motivating for the team while also portraying the leader as a successful leader in the organization.

This Stella & Dot consultant included a photo of her jewelry display with the logo/company name included.

This Origami Owl consultant has done a bit of custom work but still kept it simple. She includes a lovely photo of the product she offers, as well as her logo. It’s complemented with her photo as the Profile Image (wearing her jewelry.) This is well done!

 

This Stampin’ Up demonstrator also used a photo of completed projects, as well as some of the products she sells. She added a photo of herself as the main Profile Image.

This consultant also included a montage of products, as well as a subtle message that is not a call to action. She also included her independent creative partner logo in the montage, and stayed true to the branding colors of the company.

The point is to keep it simple, make it easy on the eyes, and don’t make yourself crazy.

Templates

If you are a Photoshop user, John Haydon provides specific instructions and a link to a free template in this post.

And here is a link to a post that lists 19 different programs you can use to create a Timeline Cover Photo: http://ebiznet2u.com/19-best-facebook-timeline-profile-cover-creators-3714/

Have you created a Cover Image for your Facebook Page yet? What tips or advice do you have? Would love to read your thoughts in the comments below. Oh, and if you’ve already upgraded, feel free to share a link in the comments to your Facebook Page.

 

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• Why Can't I Just Copy What My Company Posts on Facebook?

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