5 Reasons Why You Need a Professional Headshot

The saying “Never judge a book by its cover”, while charming, isn’t entirely plausible in the real world. The reality is that we are all judged, or perceived, by the way we look. And, particularly when it comes to professional situations—job interviews, making connections, networking—we have a short amount of time to make a good first impression.

That’s why it’s incredibly important to always appear professional, both in-person and online. And while most career-driven women understand the importance of business professional attire in-person, far too many fail to exude that same professionalism online—the very first place (or next place) most professional contacts will see you!

Instead of using a selfie-stick to take your next LinkedIn photo, consider a professional headshot instead.

5 Reasons Why You Need a Professional Headshot

1. You’ll Look the Part 

If you want to be treated like a professional, you must look like a professional. Period. 

2. It Will Help You Take Yourself Seriously 

Making a (small) financial investment in a professional photo shows that you take yourself and your career seriously. And there are few things more appealing to a professional contact than that. 

3. You’ll Stand Out From the Crowd

As important as a professional headshot is to landing a job, many adults still rely on the poor quality cell phone photos they ask their friends to take. You’ll make recruiters, potential employers, and important contacts take a closer look if you’re sharing a photo that’s high-res and visually pleasing. 

4. You’ll Stay Top of Mind 

By including a memorable professional photo on your social media accounts, you allow people to put a face to a name, meaning you are more likely to stay top-of-mind to the important people who look you up, whether before or after you meet. 

5. This Is Your Only Shot

Pun intended. In this fast-paced, digital world, contacts are often too busy to read more than a few lines of your resume. A good headshot is your best chance to make an instant (and positive) first impression. Don’t waste it.

How to Get a Professional Headshot

1. Hire a Photographer

There are professional headshot services in most cities. Here are just a few in some major cities: 

2. Take a DIY Headshot 

No time to schedule a shoot or no budget? No problem. There's an easy way to take your own professional headshot. All you need is a friend who's down to spend an hour or two.