As a business professional, having an up-to-date headshot is a necessity to reflect the image you wish to portray. Most image experts recommend having your headshot updated every 2 years, or whenever you have a life change that alters the way you look (weight loss/gain, new haircut, new hair colour, etc.). Often we get the question, should I update my headshot when I switch employer? Here are some points to consider:
The Pros
- Cost effective
- Image may be current
- Saves time
- Your employer may have paid for the headshot and have arranged for full rights for the photos, therefore, given you permission to use your current headshot – then repurposing this photos is cost effective for you.
If your headshot was taken recently, it can seem unnecessary to update it simply because you’ve changed employers. Your look hasn’t changed, so why should your picture? You’ve got a digital file of your old headshot saved on the computer that can be used instantly. Save yourself (and your new employer) from having to use “Image Coming Soon” icon in your new company directory with a few quick clicks.
The Cons
- It was used in the previous company’s marketing material
- It reflects the corporate message of a previous company and might not fit in with the look of the new company
- If it is a few years old
One of the most compelling reasons to avoid reusing a headshot is if the shot was used for a company’s promotional materials. If your headshot was featured on the company’s “About Us” page, posted on staff bulletin boards, or otherwise used to promote your employment with the company, it should not be reused. That image associates you with the organization, and while your employment with them may have ended, you will remain as part of the company’s history.
Many companies have specific guidelines for their headshots, creating a unified and consistent message for their brand. Lighting, wardrobe, positioning of the shot are all done according to the overall image that the company wishes to portray, and to identify the company. Using a headshot from a previous employer will reflect their brand and may conflict with the branding of your new employer.
Standard business practice is to update your headshot every few years (ideally every 2) to keep your image looking fresh and current. Even if your looks haven’t changed much, fashion trends such as clothing styles and hairstyles do, so an outdated image stands out quickly. Use the change in your employment as an opportunity to freshen up your personal branding.
Contact Shot Spot photo studio to update your corporate headshot Maple Ridge and to keep your personal branding fresh and new.