Start the New Year off Strong with New Headshots

Before you dismiss all the "new year, new you" social media posts start inundating your feed, give it a quick thought. Yes, it's often annoying to see people pledge to make things different just because it's a new year. But a few things should be done regularly, such as updating your LinkedIn profile, and the new year is a great time to do them. One thing you'll want to make sure you start the new year with new headshots – here's why you should start the new year with them. 

Like it or not, headshots are essential for your job search and career. When someone sees a photo accompanying a profile, it adds credibility and professionalism. You may be able to get away with a selfie against a plain background, but you'll immediately see a difference if you have them professionally done, and here's why. 

First Impressions are Important

The first impression sets the tone of your professional relationship with someone. New connections will see your photo on your LinkedIn profile or the Zoom call before you start your video and make a judgment call. They will take you seriously when they see a high-quality, professionally taken image in front of them.

Photos Make it Personal

When interviewing dozens of people each year or scanning through hundreds of online profiles, the people in Human Resources or recruiting will start mixing up names and resumes. A clean, current headshot is a visual reminder, helping you stand out. Plus, you can make sure that your personality shows as well. You can wear your favorite color or have something in your hand that describes you.

Professional Headshots Show Confidence

What do you think of when you see a professional headshot? Most people see that this person is comfortable and professional and must know what they are talking about. By updating your photos at least once a year, you can continue to show the world that you are to be taken seriously.

Consistency is Key

If you are starting your own business or have a website that showcases your portfolio, you'll want the images on your material to be consistent. Even large corporate companies need consistent images, which is why professional headshots are important. If your company can hire a photographer and do company-wide photos at one time, the employee section of your website will look amazing.

A professional personal branding or headshot photographer can guide you in what images you'll need for your promotional material or website. You may want a standard headshot for conference agendas and a more casual one to show your clients how relatable you are.

Professional Headshots Serve Many Purposes

Yes, you'll want to use your professional headshot on your LinkedIn profile – and any other online employment profiles – but you can use them elsewhere, too. If you're considering business cards, you can use your headshot there. Use your headshot if you're speaking at a conference or virtual event. If you write an article for someone else's website, ask that they use your headshot. The more you get your name and face out there, the higher your chance of being remembered when it comes time for your next job.

Professional headshots can be expensive, but they are worth the money. Make sure you select a photographer you're comfortable with; who has experience taking headshots. If possible, have a few outfits to change into and ask for a variety of them so that you can use them throughout the year. One great piece of advice is that anytime an event, your school or anyone is offering free headshots, get some taken. You'll use them at some point, and they will cost you nothing.

Take advantage of GGU's Career Programs resources to take the next step in your civilian career.