Truth: people are judgy.
One would love to think that hiring managers carefully sift through every detail of your resume before forming an opinion, but the reality is far simpler and more immediate.
Hiring managers, like everyone, are prone to snap judgments. Research shows that when someone looks at a photo of a stranger, it takes only milliseconds to decide if that person seems friendly, trustworthy, or competent. These initial impressions are hard to shake. So, when a hiring manager glances at your LinkedIn profile, will their first impression be in your favor?
Recruiters are looking for the same qualities in candidates that you value in your coworkers. You want colleagues who are both good at their jobs and enjoyable to be around. Wouldn’t you rather work with someone who is professional and approachable, competent and friendly, confident and fun?
These are the exact traits people aim to convey when they get a professional headshot. No one wants to appear as the person who’s bad at their job and the one nobody wants to be around. So, how do you project professionalism and approachability in a single photo? There are some simple tricks to the trade.
Approachability
Looking like you’d be a nice coworker is simple. To appear like someone who’s fun to be around, just smile in your photo. Easy, right? Maybe not just “say cheese” easy. You want a glint in your eye that says you’re authentically fun, not just pretending.
Capturing genuine happiness is generally a breeze for skilled photographers. Creating images that make you look like a professional can be a bit trickier. What does a professional even look like? This is where it might pay to employ the services of a headshot specialist.
Professionalism
This is about convincing people you’re not just good at your job but that you approach all endeavors with the same level of proficiency. Your LinkedIn profile and other social media are extensions of your professional image, so managing them like a pro is crucial.
One way to ensure your profile photo works for you is to dress for the role you’re pursuing. Choose an outfit that reflects the industry standard and have your photo taken against a clean or blurred background. Please, no casual photos cropped from a party pic.
A good headshot photographer uses sophisticated lighting to flatter your features and make you look polished. Your facial expression matters too. Depending on your industry, a slight, confident smile can suggest you’re ready to tackle challenges and turn them into opportunities. This is the mark of a great employee.
In the end, your headshot is more than just a picture.
It’s a powerful tool in your job search arsenal. It’s the visual elevator pitch that can make a recruiter pause and think, “This person looks like someone I’d want on my team.”
Take the time to invest in a professional headshot. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about making that crucial first impression count. In a judgy world, make sure your headshot says, “I’m here, I’m ready, and I’m the one you’re looking for.”
