Let’s say you’re at a conference. Some people are wearing business formal, others are in business casual, some are dressed in jeans and t-shirt, and a few are in beachwear. Which people do you notice?
Certainly, the folks in beachwear will stand out but probably for all the wrong reasons. People dressed in jeans and t-shirt will always look sloppy next to those in business attire. Business casual never looks out-of-place and is always appreciated. Business formal, which might seem overdoing it, is always admired and respected.
Having joined LinkedIn, I spent some time looking at people’s profile headshots:
• Some profile portraits are just a blank space. Nothing. It can be very telling to see how many self-proclaimed “marketing gurus” don’t have a picture.
• Some headshots appear to be taken from a vacation or holiday snap. This is the equivalent of showing up at a conference in beachwear.
• There are several folks who use a self-portrait from either their cell phone or a computer webcam. Similar to beachwear.
• Many people use a picture presumably shot by a friend or relative. They’re shown standing up against a kitchen wall, office wall or brick wall. This is equivalent to wearing jeans and t-shirt.
• Some people do use real portraits that were properly composed, exposed and focused. Equivalent to wearing business attire. Instant respect and instant credibility.
For personal use, it may not matter. But for business people, portraits are a form of marketing. It doesn’t matter if you’re an employee or self-employed, those little headshots used for LinkedIn, Facebook, your blog, your web site and on your business card, are really very important. That portrait is a reflection of you, your business and your values.
All things equal, would you prefer to do business with someone who looks respectable and professional, or with someone who couldn’t be bothered to dress for the part?
