Are Headshots Necessary?
This is a question we hear all the time, is a headshot necessary, do I really need to go and take time and spend money on a professional headshot? The simple answer is ABSOLUTELY. Well, if you want to be seen as a professional and as a leader in your industry, then yes. I’ll share some reasons why I think that your headshot and or branding photos are your most important visual asset.
Professionalism
The first thing your professional headshots do is convey professionalism. Whether you are submitting a medical residency application, going out to network, or building a new using it on your Linkedin and other socials, this sets you apart from the sea of iPhone and webcam selfies. I’ve had the opportunity to photograph some corporate headhunters and decision-makers. One thing they all have said in common is that if a person’s Linkedin profile doesn’t have a professional image, they’re more likely to pass it up.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS MATTER!
In today’s digitally connected world, more and more people are Googling your name before they’ve had a chance to meet you. Your headshot is the first thing people will see when look for you online. If you have a professional headshot that conveys confidence, and approachability and shows off your awesome personality, you’re more likely to have people click through and, see the rest of your profile.
PERSONAL BRANDING AND CREDIBILITY
A professional headshot helps you to establish your brand and makes you look more credible. It presents you as a trustworthy professional, and expert in your field. We are more likely to do business with people that we like and trust. Your branding images have to do the heavy lifting of showing your personality when you can’t be there to shake hands. I like to think that branding images and headshots help to bridge the gap between when someone Googles your name and sees you online, to when they walk into your office for their consultation. There shouldn't;d be any surprises. You can read this blog on Branding Images Vs Headshots to learn more about which is better for you.
BUILDING CONSISTENCY
Having a constant look across all your branding, whether it’s printed or online helps to build a strong brand. Whether your using Twitter, Linkedin, Facebook, your website, or, all of the above, having consistent images across these platforms builds a strong brand identity.
So while this is not an exhaustive list of reasons why your professional headshot is a must, it’s some of the top reasons I wanted to share. When you’re ready to book a headshot session with me in Rockville or Clarksburg, click below and reach out!