Don’t Shock People For The First Time Meeting Because Of An Old Headshot

In today’s digital age, your business headshot is often the first impression you make on potential clients, employers, and colleagues. It’s a visual representation of your professional brand and can significantly impact how you’re perceived in the business world. But how often should you update your business headshot? Let’s explore the importance of keeping your headshot current and the factors that influence how frequently you should refresh it.

Why Your Business Headshot Matters

Your business headshot is more than just a photo; it’s a key component of your personal brand.

Have you ever met somebody for the first time where they look nothing like they did in an image you saw of them. In most cases a headshot. Either it was 10 – 20 years old, they lost a lot of weight, gained a lot of weight, the headshot was over processed to make them look much younger. It could be a million different reason why but when you meet them you are shocked? That is a weird feeling right. It starts the first impression off on a wrong impression. First impressions matter. They matter a lot. First Impressions can change somebodies life.

Here are a few reasons why it’s so important:

1. First Impressions Count: Your headshot is often the first thing people see when they look you up online. A professional, up-to-date photo can create a positive first impression and convey that you take your career seriously.
2. Consistency Across Platforms: Whether it’s LinkedIn, your company website, or social media profiles, having a consistent and current headshot across all platforms helps build a cohesive personal brand.
3. Building Trust: A professional headshot can help build trust with potential clients and employers. It shows that you are approachable, professional, and invested in your career.

How Often Should You Update Your Headshot?

The frequency with which you should update your business headshot depends on several factors, including changes in your appearance, career advancements, and industry standards. Here are some guidelines to help you determine when it’s time for a new headshot:

1. Every 1-2 Years: As a general rule of thumb, updating your headshot every one to two years is a good practice. This ensures that your photo accurately reflects your current appearance and keeps your online presence fresh. It also helps to prevent that shock factor when meeting somebody new for the first time.
2. After Significant Changes: If you’ve undergone significant changes in your appearance, such as a new hairstyle, weight loss, or the addition of glasses, it’s a good idea to get a new headshot. Your photo should be a true representation of how you look today. I had one person that lost over a hundred pounds in a year. He was so proud coming in to get a new headshot.
3. Career Milestones: When you reach significant career milestones, such as a promotion, a new job, or starting your own business, updating your headshot can symbolize your professional growth and achievements. This was one I always did. Not just with starting a new company but even when you get promoted or start a new role in a company why not celebrate that with a new headshot. It really does accent the change in role when you are doing so at the same firm. People will notice and then you can just start off with saying “Yeah I started a new role so I got a new headshot.” This is a great conversation starter and a great way to open the door to network.
4. Industry Standards: Some industries, such as fashion, entertainment, and real estate, may require more frequent updates to stay relevant and competitive. Consider the norms in your industry when deciding how often to refresh your headshot.

The Benefits of an Updated Headshot

Regularly updating your business headshot comes with several benefits that can positively impact your career and personal brand:

1. Enhanced Professional Image: An updated headshot shows that you are proactive and care about your professional image. It demonstrates that you are current and engaged in your career.
2. Increased Visibility: A fresh headshot can increase your visibility on professional networking sites like LinkedIn. People are more likely to engage with profiles that have a recent, high-quality photo.
3. Improved Networking Opportunities: A professional headshot can make you more approachable and memorable at networking events, conferences, and meetings. It helps people put a face to your name and makes it easier for them to recognize you in person.
4. Boosted Confidence: Knowing that you have a professional, up-to-date headshot can boost your confidence. It gives you the assurance that you are presenting yourself in the best possible light.

Tips for a Great Business Headshot

To make the most of your business headshot, consider the following tips:

1. Hire a Professional Photographer: While it may be tempting to use a selfie or a photo taken by a friend, investing in a professional photographer can significantly improve the quality of your headshot. Yes, I am a professional photographer, so save the leg work and just come to me. A lot of people do. Unfortunately, many times, it’s because they went cheap and got a bad headshot.
2. Dress Appropriately: Choose attire that reflects your industry and professional role. Solid colors and simple patterns work best, as they keep the focus on your face. You can always dress for the role you want not the one you got.
3. Choose the Right Background: A clean, uncluttered background is ideal for a business headshot. It ensures that the focus remains on you and not on distracting elements in the background. I literally have hundreds of backdrops. Several on my wall but mostly in the computer where we can change them out digitally. Did I mention I also do real time editing and it affects every picture after we set the base. You see exactly what your going to get. Save that shock factor too of not knowing what you are going to get.
4. Pay Attention to Lighting: Good lighting is crucial for a high-quality headshot. Natural light or professional studio lighting can help create a flattering and professional look. Bottom line: We use the best lighting in the business, designed by the world’s best headshot photographer.
5. Relax and Be Yourself: A genuine smile and relaxed posture can make your headshot more approachable and authentic. Take a few deep breaths and try to be yourself during the photo session. So many people don’t like having their pictures taken. I know this, and I don’t blame you. Come to the studio or a group session, and I make everyone photogenic. Everyone always says this is the best image they ever had. I’ve even built friendships with clients because they like the images so much.

Conclusion

In conclusion, regularly updating your business headshot is an essential aspect of maintaining a strong personal brand and professional image. By keeping your headshot current, you ensure that you are always presenting yourself in the best possible light, making positive first impressions, and staying relevant in your industry. Aim to update your headshot every one to two years, or sooner if you experience significant changes in your appearance or career. With a professional, up-to-date headshot, you’ll be well-equipped to make a lasting impression in the business world.