Although the English idiom, “you should never judge a book by its cover” is a very benevolent notion indeed, and often taught to us from a young age – the reality is that we hardly ever live by this rule. First impressions are in fact, everything, especially in the professional world, which is why your headshot is of the utmost importance to your reputation. We have broken down the top five reasons why your headshot matters so much:

1. Online Platforms

In this fast moving digital age, the headshot is ubiquitous – it can be found on every single social media platform, and most importantly, the more business orientated ones such as LinkedIn. Sites such as LinkedIn are the be all and end all of establishing your credibility and authority online, as well as expanding your professional network. The first thing people notice when stumbling onto your page is your headshot picture. If you have a great photo, it shows that you care about your image, and exudes a sense of professionalism, which is more likely to make prospective employers or collaborators trust you in your field.

2. Show That You Are Serious

Many people still opt to use a low quality selfie for their professional headshot that they have taken on their phone, and this is a huge faux-pas that should be avoided at all costs. Why do we say this? Because selfies not only often consist of bad lighting, blur and embarrassing or unbefitting items in the background, they reflect badly on you and make you seem cheap. If you want to be taken seriously, you have to show that you are serious enough to have made the small and worthwhile investment in a professional headshot!

3. Stand Out

Life is full of competition, and this has never been more true than in the business world. With a professional headshot photoshoot, you will be sure to set yourself apart from your competitors and others within your industry. In a time where hundreds of thousands of people vie for the same roles, your headshot is what could make or break you in reaching your goals and achieving success. Your expression will also contribute to how you stand out, so it is important to strike the balance of looking welcoming and professional, without looking too joyous, miserable, or tense. Our photographers at GK London will be sure to coach you into the perfect expression when you take your headshot with us.

4. Be Remembered

90% of the information absorbed by our brains is visual. Your headshot picture has the capability to stick in the mind of a potential business prospect or employer, oftentimes even more so than your specified accomplishments and skills. Moreover, an employer can choose to follow their gut instinct about someone, and if your picture is not up to standards, then it is less likely that they will go with you. It can also be the case that your profile and headshot can result in important people placing you top-of-mind when they have an opportunity for you in the future.

5. Market Yourself

A headshot is not only invaluable in the professional world, it is perhaps even more important in the entertainment industry. Actors, performers and models are far more likely to be selected for their headshot because of their look that a certain role may require. The headshot serves as the most important marketing tool you have, particularly in an industry as fickle as entertainment. It can also be used for a whole host of other purposes, including, but not limited to: press releases, email signatures, company directories, business cards, dating profiles or you can even give one to your grandmother!