Including a picture on your resume can be a tricky decision. It can add some personality to your application and help employers remember you, but it can also backfire if it’s not approachable or professional enough. So, how do you know whether to include one or not? Check out these tips!
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Your resume photo could affect your chances of getting the job
A picture is worth a thousand words, especially regarding your résumé. But do you need one? Or does including a photo on your résumé make you look unprofessional?
Most professionals don’t put photos don’t their resumes. They’re distractions, and they take up space. And while some think adding a photo to your résumé makes you seem more professional, others believe it looks like you’re bragging about how much money you’ve spent on clothes.
Should you add a picture to your resume? Here are some more things to consider.
1. Images are not ATS-friendly
Most large companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and many smaller ones to screen job applicants.
They use automated resume readers to scan hundreds of thousands of resumes daily to find candidates matching specific criteria. Some of those criteria include keywords, education levels, experience, etc. If there is no text on your resume, it can make finding you difficult.
Resumes usually contain a picture of the person applying. Unfortunately, ATS software doesn’t always recognize images. It makes it harder for recruiters to identify you as a potential hire.
There are ways around this problem, however. You can upload a photo of yourself to your LinkedIn profile. Or you can add a link to your online portfolio. These options allow employers to see your appearance without downloading your resume.
2. Resume photos are unprofessional for other hiring managers
Headshots are a common way for job candidates to stand out from the competition. But just because you’re showing off your best side means it’s appropriate to show a photo of yourself on your resume.
In a recent survey, almost half of employers say a candidate’s use of a headshot is candidate professional” or “inappropriate” In fact, some” com” and even req” ire that applicants remove their images from their resumes altogether.
The most popular reason for rejecting candidates’ headshots is that the candidates seem less professional. Other reasons include:
• A lack of professionalism
• Poor quality
• Unnecessary
• Too formal
3. It May Cause Discrimination
A recent study suggests that photos on resumes could discriminate against older workers. While some people believe that including a picture of yourself on a resume is an excellent way to stand out among others, evidence suggests otherwise.
A group of researchers found that women over 40 were less likely to receive callbacks from employers than younger candidates with identical qualifications. In another case, a survey showed that men without pictures on their resumes received fewer job offers than those with photographs.
The researchers suggest that recruiters might unconsciously discriminate against certain employees because of their appearance.
They say that most companies and recruiters often make decisions based on looks rather than skills. This happens even though recruiters know hiring managers tend to favor young people subconsciously.
4. Your picture may overpower your skills and experience
A resume is a document that outlines your qualifications for a particular job or position. A view on a resume can be distracting and take up valuable space that could be better used to list your skills and experience.
A resume picture can also make it difficult for employers to understand your qualifications accurately. A resume picture can be helpful if you’re applying for a job requiring a particular look or image. However, in most cases, it’s best to leave the pictures off your resume.
Adding a photo on your resume: When can you do it?
While a resume picture might seem a great way to show off your smile and personality, it could do more harm than good.
Hiring managers often have to sort through dozens or hundreds of applications when reviewing resumes. They typically give each resume a cursory glance at first to quickly identify the most qualified candidates.
If your resume includes a picture, there’s a risk that the hiring manager will be so distracted by your appearance that they’ll gloss over your skills and experience. As a result, it’s generally best to avoid putting a picture on your resume.
However, there are a few exceptions. For example, a resume picture could help you stand out from the competition if you’re applying for a fashion industry job. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether or not to include a photo on your resume.
But unless you’re confident it will improve your chances of getting hired, it’s probably best to play it safe and leave it off.
Professional Photo Dos and Don’ts
You’re probably well aware that first impressions matter. But you may not know that your resume picture can say a lot about you as a professional. Here are some dos and don’ts to help you make sure your resume picture makes the right impression.
Do dress the part. When applying for a job in a traditional office setting, it’s important to dress conservatively. This means avoiding intense colors and styles and sticking to neutrals like black, navy, and grey. And no matter the dress code for the position you’re applying for, be sure to avoid anything that could be seen as provocative or unprofessional.
Do choose a recent picture. Using an image that accurately represents what you currently look like is essential. Avoid using an old photo where you might look significantly different, as this could create confusion or even mistrust if you were to meet your potential employer in person.
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Don’t use a selfie. Selfies might be acceptable for social media, but they don’t belong on your resume. Stick to a professionally-taken headshot instead.
Don’t forget the background. The background of your picture is almost as important as what you’re wearing. Choose a neutral backdrop that isn’t too busy or cluttered. And make sure there’s nothing in the background that could take away from your professional appearance, like alcohol bottles or messy rooms.
Summary
Including a picture on your resume can be beneficial sometimes, but it’s not always necessary.
Our experts are more than qualified to coach you and advise you in writing a resume that will make you stand out from the crowd.
If you’re considering including a photo on your next application, contact us for tips to help you look your best!
