Make A First Impression...The First Time

“You Never Get A Second Chance to Make a First Impression”

– Will Rogers.

Did you know it's estimated that about 70% of employers look at a candidate's social media during the hiring process? That's according to a poll taken in 2017, so I'm thinking since that same poll had a 10% increase from the previous year, the percentage is probably higher today.

So how does that square with the old adage "don't judge a book by it's cover?" Well obviously it doesn't, which is why if you are seeking employment or new opportunities you should care what your headshot says about you.

Laura Hatcher Photography Indoor or Outdoor Headshots

LinkedIn recently reported that 61 million users are senior level influencers and 40 million are in decision-making  positions.  And get this,  LinkedIn profiles with photos get 21x more views and 36x more messages. (My mind is boggled with that stat and what 14 year old gamer wrote the algorithm to figure out how to measure that?!)  

Bottom line, you need a picture and those stats suggest that it doesn't even need to be a good one. But I beg to differ and encourage you to invest in a quality headshot that will leave a great first impression.

Transitioning Vets, I know how it feels to want to hold on to that professional looking picture of yourself in uniform.  My resume was on my Naval uniform and taking off that cloth felt like I was losing a second skin.  But don't worry, you can do it!  I recommend if you are within a year of your transition, that you change your LinkedIn picture, so at a minimum you can start believing in yourself in business attire.

If you live in the Northern VA/Southern MD/DC Metro area, contact me via my website, Facebook, or LinkedIn for your headshot today!  

“There are always two people in every picture: the photographer and the viewer.”

– Ansel Adams

Want to read more about those LinkedIn stats? 48 Eye-Opening LinkedIn Statistics

Laura Hatcher is a retired Naval Officer, Mother, Harley Rider and Published Professional Photographer located in Northern Virginia.

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