If you’re a mum looking to start a new career or even a new job after maternity leave or after years of being a SAHM, something as simple as a decent headshot could be all that you need. Getting your public profile image right can make an enormous difference in a short space of time and totally transform how you’re viewed. But what do you need to do? Here’s how it elevates your professional trajectory. 

Boosts online visibility

Perhaps the biggest benefit of going to a professional photography studio and getting a decent headshot done is how it boosts your online visibility. LinkedIn data shows that people with high-quality headshots are more likely to receive views and connection requests than those that don’t. 

They’re also much more likely to be viewed in general because of the way the platform works, improving professional networking. Recruiters scroll through quickly, and they’re always looking for profile pictures that really stand out. If yours doesn’t, you could get lost in search results. 

Builds trust

Another thing you’ll find when you have a great headshot is that it really builds trust. It shows that you care about the little details and how you present yourself, which makes a big difference to anyone who doesn’t know you viewing you online. It can also make you more memorable and approachable. 

Remember that clients and employers will make judgments in seconds. If your image isn’t polished, then it can make a big difference in how they perceive you. Conversely, if you have a polished image, then it supports your personal brand and makes people more interested in you. Just make sure you get your appearance right. If you’re in finance or corporate, then go for classic attire. Meanwhile, if you are in a creative field, then feel free to show more personality but don’t overdo it.

Opens doors

You’ll also find that having a high-quality headshot opens doors for you. Though this sounds cliched, it’s true. Mums returning to work (in any capacity) who have high-quality photos of themselves are more likely to attract attention from managers, clients and hiring professionals. This is something that photographers like Luke Chapman Photography recommend. Once you have a decent photo, it’s often the first step in really improving your visibility. 

If you decide to get a headshot for career reasons, then make sure you hire a professional. They can get everything from the lighting, posing, and facial expression completely right. This way you are more likely to be happy with the result than if you took it on your iPhone.

Also make sure that your headshot is current. Most professionals like to update theirs every 2-5 years so that people searching for them online can gain a true likeness as their appearance changes. If you can smile genuinely and allow your emotions to shine through, this is something that other people will intuitively feel, allowing you to create a connection with them without even meeting them.