When Was Your Last Headshot Taken?
For many, their professional headshot is over a half of a decade old. Yet it is the main thing prospects review online before deciding to contact a financial advisor. Whether the photo is on a website or a LinkedIn profile, it is becoming a crucial part of the new business process, even if a prospect comes from a referral.
Want proof? Ask every new prospect that comes in the door if they saw your picture before they came to you.
So why do so many fall behind in keeping their online presence up to date? There are three big reasons:
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There is an expense. Yes, there are costs for a photographer. Online changes to websites and social media can take up manhours. Plus, when marketing material needs to be printed, that can add up.
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Photos are uncomfortable. Many do not like to have their photos taken. Plus, it takes time. If one feels comfortable with an old photo, the motivation to change it might not be there.
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It gets forgotten. It is easy to let the years pass by and lose focus on how important it is to keep one’s photo up to date.
Recognizing these hurdles is important to eventually overcome them. For example, if there is going to be an expense, keep budget dollars allocated to make photography updates. Even set a reminder on your calendar a few years out to review all pictures.
Hiring A Professional Photographer
Because the headshot is so important, do not leave it up to an amateur. Here are a handful of things you should ask a professional before hiring him or her:
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Do you get to own the exclusive rights to the photos?
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Can you get a contact sheet? That way you can pick from the rough pictures to see which ones you like the most, before the photographer retouches them.
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Can you get the electronic file in different formats, including high resolution and low resolution (which can be better for online use)?
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Can you get a landscape and portrait version, as from time to time there are different needs where some are better for vertical uses and others horizontal?
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What type of enhancements can be made like lighting, blemish removal and even thinning of one’s face (which is not recommended, but almost every fashion magazine is doing it)?
If you have an imperfection, a photographer can be your best friend and hide it. However, let the real you show through. It is not the greatest experience if a prospect does not recognize you from your picture when they eventually meet you in person.
I realized it was time for an update, especially as I am now “hair challenged.” Keith Conforti, owner of Twist Creative Group, helped with my new headshot. Luckily, I lost some weight, so he did not have to remove double chins, but as he is very talented he was able to take out a lady that was on the beach in the background.
Check out my new headshot on Byrnes Consulting’s bio page and let me know what you think. If your picture is on the older side, hopefully this article is a nudge to take a new photo and make an update.
Mike Byrnes is a national speaker and owner of Byrnes Consulting LLC. His firm provides consulting services to help advisors become even more successful. Need help with business planning, marketing strategy, business development, client service and management effectiveness? Read more at ByrnesConsulting.com and follow @ByrnesConsultin.