Why you should get a professional business headshot

You never get a second chance to make a first impression, so you want to make it a good one. This is particularly important in your career. Exuding a professional appearance and demeanor can help you thrive no matter what field you work in.

In today’s modern world with social sites like LinkedIn and Twitter, technology lets people seek out others with a few clicks of the mouse. Beyond social media, many people are featured on company pages and industry association directories. The pictures in all these professional locations matters, which is why investing a small amount of money in a high-quality headshot is a wise decision that can pay dividends in supporting your career.

Consider three undeniably important reasons to get a headshot:

Career growth

Many people understand the importance of making a good first impression during an interview, but what they may not realize is that that first impression likely already happened online. Recruiters love to scour social media, and that amazing headshot is sure to stand out. Just on LinkedIn alone, simply having a profile photo results in up to 21 times more profile views and nine times more connection requests. Make sure the headshot you use is a good one.

Networking

Experts agree that networking is important no matter where you are in your career. Your professional connections can help you find new opportunities, whether that be a new job, a speaking engagement or a consulting gig. A professional headshot is memorable and helps you stand out from a crowd, so it certainly should be considered a networking must-have. Remember, headshots aren’t just for resumes and online; add one to your business card, so that every time you network and hand one out, your memorable professional image helps keep you top of mind.

Confidence

Having a professional headshot helps boost your confidence as well as the confidence others have in your professional abilities. You’ll take yourself seriously and others will, too. A great headshot ensures you’re making the best impression possible, which makes you feel good about your personal brand and what other professionals are thinking when they see your image. Looking the part is just as important as playing the part, and a high-quality headshot helps you look the deal whether you’re just starting your career or you’re navigating the C-suite.

Take the next step

Remember, your personal brand should be apparent in your headshot. From how you dress to the expression on your face, this all tells a story. You can work with your local JCPenney Portraits photographer to get just the right image for all your needs. They offer three types of high-resolution digital image packages: 1 digital image, 3 digital images or a full digital album, which includes the images photographed in your session. Take the next step and enhance your career by booking a session for a professional headshot today.

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