Have you ever considered the reasons why you need a professional headshot? Sure, everyone seems to need one, but why? As someone who derives most of his living from headshots, I can tell you for sure that it’s big business. But can a good headshot help you with your business? Check out these four reasons why you don’t just need a headshot, but a great one.
1. Your Online Presence IS Your Business
According to research by the ODM group, 74% of people use social media and online research to inform their purchasing decisions. If you don't believe it, check your website stats and look at how many people view your website via mobile versus desktop. If you are in any kind of business, it is in your best interest to have an online presence that shows potential clients who you are and what you are all about. Your headshot is your first impression to your customer.
2. A Killer Professional Headshot is Perfect for Networking
Let’s face it, a long-term marketing strategy depends on having a great network of relationships. If you are running any kind of business, leaving a good impression on someone is critical to networking. Having a clear, captivating headshot can help people remember you the next time they see you in person. When you have a great headshot, it stands out, people will compliment you and flat out approach you about it. Its a real confidence booster.
3. Stand Out From Your Competition
Whether you are in the business of legal services, real estate, consulting, web development, or anything else, chances are that your field is pretty competitive. The interconnectivity of the modern world puts endless options at the fingertips of every potential client. If you have a modern, responsive website, an authentic social media presence, and great headshots and brand images, you will eliminate a substantial amount of your competition. Think about it this way, we have all be to a restaurant where things seem out of date and unconventional. What's worst then enjoying a service and not being able to leave a review because the company isn't on google? Modernization is your friend but only when your a stay up to date.
4. Because It’s Hard to Convey Tone in an Email
Have you ever experienced the phenomenon of assuming the tone in a an email? In our minds we can often get off on the wrong foot in an email exchange because of a tone that we apply to a message. The sender may type something that they think is perfectly harmless, but when it goes through the filter of a stressful day, you can take it the wrong way. This works both ways too! Having a friendly face on as an email signature is a powerful way to make sure that the person on the other end of that email is always reminded that you are a charming and delightful person.
Bonus Round: Do’s and Don’ts for Professional Headshots
Do – Hire a professional.
-Someone who specializes in the type of work you need for your brand.
Don’t assume that just because someone is a real estate photographer that they can take a great headshot.
Do – Put together a collection of headshots you like from the web. Give your photographer some clear direction as to your brand’s vision.
Don’t try and do it yourself with your phone (and apply those horrible filters). Everyone, yes everyone, can tell the difference.
Do you need to get updated headshots of you and your team? Check out our business headshots page with samples of our work and pricing information.