Why You Need a Professional Headshot

How quickly do you think it takes for people to form their initial opinion of you? According to research published in the Cognition And Emotion Journal, the answer is about 100 milliseconds. So, whether you’re an entrepreneur building a brand, a sales professional for a nationwide corporation, a marketing manager for a small family company, or something in between, you have a short window of time to communicate your expertise, trustworthiness, and value. That’s where professional headshots come in!

The Importance of Having Professional Headshots

Do you remember when the camera on your phone was only capable of taking pixilated, low-quality photos? Thanks to advanced technology, those days are long gone. So, it’s not too surprising that many professionals think a simple iPhone selfie will suffice. However, these pictures give your clients a sense of unprofessionalism and the impression that you’re willing to cut corners to get the job done. On the other hand, a crisp image, clean background, and clear branding communicate trustworthiness, professionalism, and an investment in yourself and your product/service.

How to Prepare for Your Professional Headshots

If you’ve never had professional headshots taken, the task may initially seem daunting. However, there are a few things you can do to prepare:

• Enhance your smile – Did you know that your smile is one of the first things people notice about you? So, what message is yours sending? If you’re less than enthused with your answer, then talk to your dentist! Depending on your dental needs, they can completely transform your smile with veneers or touch up a few teeth with an effective whitening treatment.
• Think about your outfit – While your headshot won’t display your entire outfit, what you wear will certainly be seen. So, take the time to find a blouse, shirt, or jacket that makes you feel comfortable and communicates the vibe of your brand. For example, if you’re in a creative field, like cake making, you may not want to wear a suit and tie for your headshots. Conversely, if you are an investor or lawyer, choosing a bright, colorful pattern might not attract your ideal clients.
• Talk to the photographer – All too often, professionals forget to communicate with their photographer about their feelings heading into the shoot and what they want the outcome to be. Talking with them beforehand will help you feel more comfortable in front of the camera and ensure you get the shots you’re hoping for.
• Pamper yourself – Don’t worry – this part doesn’t need to be anything too extensive (unless you want it to be!). Pampering yourself can be something as simple as doing a soothing face mask the night before or getting a fresh haircut the week of. You can also get a massage beforehand to help you relax or go on a little shopping spree to find the perfect outfit.

6 Places to Display Your Professional Headshot

After you’ve received your professional headshots, it’s time to put them where your ideal clients will see them! Here are some ideas:

• Your LinkedIn profile (more specifically, your profile image).
• The “About Me” or “About Us” section of your website.
• In an introductory blog post.
• Social networking sites, like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
• Your resume.
• Your e-mail signature.

With such a short amount of time to make a first impression, it’s important not to gamble on yours with a selfie. Instead, invest in having professional headshots taken, communicating your professionalism and your investment in your brand/business. Just be sure to prepare beforehand to set yourself up for success, starting with a visit to your dentist’s office for a confident smile!