One of the most common practices on creating your CVs is putting your photo to go along with it. In recent times however, more and more individuals are doing away with the photo and are focusing on what’s written instead. However – Bayt.com still affirms that putting your photo gives you an advantage to get noticed. Here’s why.
Highlighting your personal brand
Depending on the industry you’ll be working on, an HR professional would most likely want to have a look at how you present yourself, especially if you’ll be working on creative fields like graphic design or at an advertising agency.
If you’re submitting through an online portal like Bayt.com, it gives your profile increased credibility as HR managers will get to see the face behind the profile that they’re looking at which increases the odds of them picking up that phone to give you a quick call if you match their requirements.
Capture that limited attention span
If your CV is just full of notes and words, the HR manager is more likely to skip yours, not unless they see something that strikes them – one of which will be your photo. This is why you should make sure that you look your best when your photo is taken. Here are a few further tips from Bayt.com to make sure that you keep their attention as they look through your CV as your application gets considered.
No selfies
You’re submitting a professional photo for a professional setting – so a passport type photo would work best, and not a social media post. There’s no room for selfies when you’re planning to land a job in the corporate world – not unless you’re planning to work for a creative agency which you think would catch their attention. Avoid using any filters, effects and just show your simplest smile.
The background
No props, just a plain colored, or better yet, a plain white background. Nothing else should distract the HR person when taking a look at your photo.
Dress professionally
This goes without saying – you shouldn’t be seen wearing anything less than your formal attire. An advice to follow is to always wear a clean dress shirt, with or without a suit jacket.
Frame from the waist up
This picture is meant to be a head shot only. Avoid taking full body shots.
Facial expressions and gestures
Keep neutral facial expressions and hand gestures. Do not pose or exaggerate in your smile. Keep it natural and face the camera just as you would face an interviewer.
Hair and makeup
Keep your hair neat and tidy and make sure you groom your beard. If you tend to have a big curly hair, try to tie it back. Also, makeup should always be simple and neutral.
