If you’re like most people, your New Year’s Resolution list included items like losing weight, exercise more, save more money and spend more time with friends and family. As a business owner, you may have added get organized, read more leadership books and grow your business. Most likely, however, you didn’t add ‘Update my headshot’ to your list – a mistake that could cost you in the coming year.

Is a current headshot that important?

     The use of images has become more important as society has become more dependent on the internet. Regardless of the need, most people turn to their mobile device or computer for the solution.  A recent study shows that 60% of people conducting a search online are more likely to choose a result that includes images. What does that mean? It means that before they’ve read about how great your services are, before they’ve checked out your qualifications and the awards you’ve won, they’ve made a split-second decision about your company, and you – based on an image.

     In many cases, business buyers are finding information through LinkedIn, which means potential clients are determining if they are going to take the time to find out more about your services solely on the strength of your headshot. Don’t have a headshot? Your competitor just got an advantage over you…and it has nothing to do with your prices.

No worries, I’ll just use a ‘selfie’ as my headshot.

     It’s tempting to simply pull out your phone and snap a few quick shots of your best smile to use for your website or social profiles. While we applaud the DIY movement, there are some areas where professional services are required. Your headshot is one of them. Our photographers have experience with lighting, angles and poses that best represent you (and your brand) that cannot be duplicated by most amateur photographers (or yourself!).

How often should I update my headshot?

Almost as bad as not having a headshot is having an outdated one. The “first real job after college” headshot that you had taken years ago may give people the impression that you are outdated, neglecting your branding or are hiding behind the image of youth. When consumers meet the real, older you, they may feel as though they have been misled and doubt your abilities to help them.  Have you made any noticeable changes to your looks? Had eye-surgery so you don’t wear glasses? Lost (or gained) a significant amount of weight? Changes in any of these areas indicate it may be time to update your photo as well.  Our rule of thumb is to refresh our headshot every two years. It keeps the picture current, as well as provides another opportunity to give your look a freshening up.