SUCCEED WITH STYLE: What Does Your Head Shot Say About You?

SUCCEED WITH STYLE: What Does Your Head Shot Say About You?

Do you have a professional head shot? As I review my LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook business colleagues, I can see there’s a large percentage who have chosen not to present themselves in the most professional light. Coming from a marketing and branding background, even before I transitioned my career to image consulting, the first thing I thought of was “How will the customer react to the product, ad or service?”

What will be their first impression? The same holds true for all of us as we present ourselves to the world every day. Since our online presence has more reach than our physical presence, it’s equally important to consider how you are perceived in social media. If you think the photo you had your friend or spouse take of you against a white wall looks professional and represents your best self, think again.

Your online photo may be the first and last impression someone has of you. If you are looking for a new job, trying to become an expert in your existing industry or even entering the world of dating, a picture speaks a thousand words. You may want to consider having a professional head shot done. I just had my head shot redone. In my business it’s not only important that I look the part but that I look like me. If you’ve had a professional head shot done two or more years ago, it’s time for an update. We change over the years and there is nothing worse than a head shot that looks nothing like you any more. That is why I update my professional photo every few years. Keep in mind that it is an investment in your success and you don’t have to break the bank to do it either.

Here are some tips to start you on your way.

1. Schedule a consult with a photographer. If your budget is limited then connect with a college or university that has a photography program. Their students will want the experience and the cost will be more affordable.

2. Get your hair cut about a week before the scheduled shoot. Ladies, have your hair and makeup done on the day of the shoot. It makes all the difference in the world. Either go to one of the makeup counters at the mall and have one of the makeup artists do it or hire a makeup artist to come to the shoot with you.

3. Select your outfits carefully. Solid colors work best. Blues, greens and reds show up well online. You want to make sure the colors complement your natural coloring. If you choose to wear a black suit pair it with a blue shirt or other light colored shirt and a tie with stronger colors. Ladies, choose a bolder colored top to go under your black suit.

4. Choose clothing that makes you feel good, is authentic to you and reflects what you do. V- neck styles and collared shirts work well to frame the face.

5. Keep jewelry simple and minimal. Nothing trendy. Diamonds are always good (but not for guys)

6. If you are doing a full shot, bring shoes that complement the outfit. Make sure they are in good shape and are polished.

7. Have at least three different shots done: One business formal professional, one business casual professional and one casual. The last photo can be used for Facebook, your blog, or even one of the dating sites.

8. Bring music to the shoot. You want to relax, have fun and be yourself. Your personality needs to shine through.

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Margaret Batting is the Corporate Style expert for GoLocalProv.com. Margaret is the owner and president of Elevé Image Consulting and the only certified image consultant and personal brand strategist in Rhode Island. She travels the country as the national corporate image consultant for CareerBuilder. For more information, visit www.eleve-style.com.