As an young individual who is working their way into a professional career, I often stop to analyze if I am portraying myself at the highest level of professionalism. How do I appear to my partners and clients? Do I present myself as someone who is trustworthy and intelligent, who is going to put forth a satisfactory experience and product? Am I the sort of person others would look to for advice or recommendations?
There are many characteristics that any person should consider when trying to improve upon their public image, but one of the first things you should think of is just that: your image. There is a reason that there are euphemisms such as “a picture is worth a thousand words” or “make a good first impression” integrated into our daily lives. Your physical appearance does very much have an affect on how you are perceived by everyone around you, be it in a personal or professional position. If you want to present a positive appearance, a good place to start is with professional headshots.
Depending on your job, you may be provided with the opportunity to have headshots taken at work. However, it is important to have a selection of your own so that you can use it places other than your job, such as; LinkedIn, a feature in article/podcast/in the community, or maybe you need a headshot because you have a part in a community theater production or some local program you are being recognized in. Having professional photos allows people to connect with you before they meet with you. Visual cues are so important in creating and maintaining a connection with people, more than just data in the form of words. A picture conveys information about you, like a visual version of your resume. Words on a paper at a job interview is just one side of your presence. In this way, social media is crucial as well. Almost every employer will look at your social media before hiring you, and being able to have a head shot as your social media profile picture will put you one step ahead of others who have selfies as their profile picture. In a pinch, having a friend take your photo or setting your phone on a timer might provide you with something suitable. But it is important to have a professional your headshots to ensure that you get the desired outcome.
Headshots need to portray the best version of yourself, preferably in a setting that implies your desired role. Start with the clothes. Dress like you would in your work environment: exp. doctor, wear lab coat or someone in an office job, wear a nice suit or blazer and slacks. Try to pick classic outfits that aren’t busy patterns so the focus is on you, not what you are wearing. That doesn’t mean you have to look plain or boring. Do something to make you stand out a bit, bright tie, find a pretty place outside, a statement necklace, colored background, etc. If you are using a headshot, it should be current. Headshots from years ago conveys lack of professionalism and disconnect, not to mention how much your appearance could have changed over time. No one is going to want to work with you if they cannot recognize who you are or it looks like your photo was taken in the early 2000s.
And finally, one of the things I find personally appealing with a nice headshot is how it helps with granting you a level of confidence in all areas where this photo might be viewed, and should instill a level of pride in you as well. Not just for how you look, but all the other nuances of who you are that this image is working to convey. Confidence is key to success for every individual regardless of their field, and you’d be amazed at just how much one (or a few) really amazing photos can do for you.
I came across this subject after working with my personal photographer and best friend when wanting to update my work profile and LinkedIn. She was more thank happy to oblige and in a short session and a few outfit changes, I was provided with a variety of headshots for my choosing. Check out Laura’sLenses for more information on working with a photographer to get the exactly product you need for different events in your life.
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