Why have a professional image for social media?

Do you think your social media head shot is important?  Think about this for a few minutes. You’re seeking a new job or intern position. Now, you have created your LinkedIn Profile and you are waiting for the call.  Take advantage of the full benefits of LinkedIn and other social media by providing a professional image of yourself. The head-shot has escalated in importance.
There are five important factors to consider:
1) Credibility – Most jobs require computer skills. Are you able to present yourself in a positive manner and utilize social networking tools? Profiles without photos are a negative. Recruiters are looking for real people, not fictional profiles.
2) Recognition – Your photo distinguishes you from long list of people that may have a similar name. Former associates may remember a face and not your name. You get recognized by a consistent photo.
3) Consistency – Recruiters, friends, and others who follow you in other social networks will find, and probably follow, you in new social networks. The reach of your social media visibility will be expanded and connected, and your “social proof” will be made stronger.
4) Personal Appeal -Any social profile is more appealing when a person’s face is associated with it. LinkedIn has said that entries in LinkedIn search results with a professional photo are 7 times more likely to be clicked than entries without photos or . Most recruiters looking for someone with your job title will probably not click on your name unless there is a photo beside it in the search results listings.
5) Brand Recognition– Your photo represents your brand – your personal logo – especially when you use the same photo for all of your professional social profiles.

How can we help you create a positive image with your social media head shot?

LinkedIn has specific requirements, so I recommend starting with LinkedIn. Then, as recommended above, use that photo for your other professional social profiles. The LinkedIn User Agreement specifies that members should NOT, “Upload a profile image that is not your likeness or a head-shot photo.”
Be choosy when selecting the photo to use for your professional social profiles. For most of us, that means:

•  Use a headshot photo of yourself, not something or someone else.
• The image should be recognizably you.
• The pose should be “grown-up” – not mugging for the camera, no kissy poses.
• LinkedIn wants a simple head-shot photo of you, in a relatively business-like pose.
• You should be alone in the photo – no pets or children or other distractions.

Give us a call to schedule an appointment for a on location professional Social media head shot. Or click here to schedule an appointment today!