Maximizing Your Professional Headshot: A Guide for Business Professionals

So you made the investment in getting high-quality headshots, now that you have them, how can you make the most of them? As I’ve mentioned before, your headshot is often the first impression people have of you in a professional setting. It conveys your professionalism, personality, and approachability.

In this guide, I will walk you through how to effectively use your headshot across various platforms.

Online Presence:

• LinkedIn Profile:
  • Use your new high-resolution, professional-looking headshot on spaces like LinkedIn, Meet-up, Alignable
  • Consider updating your headshot every 2-3 years or with significant changes
• Professional Website/Bio:
  • Place your new headshot on the ‘About’ or ‘Team’ page for relatability at work.
  • Consistency across your company or corporate website and other platforms is key for brand recognition.
• Email Signature:
  • Include your new headshot to add a personal touch to emails, making interactions more personable.
  • Just make sure the image is not too large to maintain email load efficiency.
• Online Articles and Guest Posts:
  • Attach your new headshot to author bios when contributing to blogs or articles for brand consistency and recognition.

---

Social Media:

• Corporate Social Media:
  • If you are using platforms like X, , Instagram, and Facebook, to build a personal brand, consider using your new headshot there too.
  • Maintain the same headshot across platforms for coherence and brand recognition.
• Personal Branding Platforms:
  • Utilize your new headshot on platforms like Medium or YouTube profiles for a cohesive online identity.

---

Networking and Events:

• Business Cards:
  • Include your new headshot on your business cards to increase recognition during networking events.
• Conference Materials:
  • Use it in speaker bios or programs at events and webinars to boost recognition.
• Professional Portfolios:
  • Add it to online or physical portfolios, especially if you work in creative fields.

---

Internal Company Use:

• Intranet Bios:
  • Use it on internal directories to help colleagues put a face to a name, fostering company culture.
• Newsletters and Bulletins:
  • Consider sharing it for company-wide communications such as team member introductions and/or achievements.

---

Printed Materials:

• Brochures and Flyers:
  • Include when applicable to personalize marketing materials, this is key for business owners and/or realtors/
• Press Kits:
  • Provide a polished headshot for media use, ensuring it’s high-quality and up-to-date.

FAQ

Q: Can I use a selfie as my professional headshot?

A: While selfies are convenient, they typically lack the polish and quality of a professionally taken headshot. Investing in a professional photographer is worthwhile for creating a high-quality image that best represents your professional persona.

Q: Is it important to smile in a headshot?

A: Smiling can convey warmth and approachability, which is often beneficial for networking and professional interactions. However, the expression you choose should align with the tone you wish to convey in your professional brand.

Q: Can I edit my headshot to adjust lighting or blemishes?

A: Minor editing for lighting and blemishes is common and acceptable to ensure your photo looks polished. However, excessive retouching that alters your natural appearance, as authenticity is key in professional settings and not encouraged.

Q: What should I wear for my headshot?

A: Opt for solid colors and avoid busy patterns that might be distracting. Choose an outfit that aligns with your brand and makes you feel confident. Consider industry norms, but also look for ways to subtly showcase your personality.

Q: Where can I book a headshot session with Wendoly Photography?

A: Absolutely! We provide a Headshot Experience year-round, along with our annual Express Headshot session. If you’re interested in a team headshot session, we offer those as well and would be thrilled to connect with you. Please feel free to reach out by clicking here!