A job-winning résumé is well-structured, brief and punchy. It contains the right info, grabs the reader and keeps them reading. Professional CV writers can help you include particulars like relevant experiences and achievements that will make it eye-catching. But would including a picture on your CV improve your chances?
Employers and recruiters generally say that it doesn’t and it is not necessary. But there are situations where a picture on your CV could boost your employability. Read on and find out the impact of including your photo on your CV and how to do it properly.
A picture on your CV? Why it’s not a good idea
It could be a distraction that takes up prime space
The front page of your résumé is like prime real estate; any information placed there should pay dividends. A photo may seem like an excellent way to grab the reader’s attention. But it could also be distracting.
Before you include it, ask yourself if it is ‘prime content’. Would it significantly contribute to a recruiter’s ability to assess your skills and capacity to deliver? Remember, your photo occupies prime space and edges out your competencies and achievements.
What would you rather sell, your aptitude and portfolio or looks?
Graphics could skew the presentation
Besides taking up prime space and distracting the reader, consider how the photo would affect the layout of information on your résumé. Where will you place it? And crucially, how would it affect the presentation?
A picture on your CV could skew the alignment or presentation of text information. Of course, this would lower its readability and decrease your chances of landing an interview.
A photo on your résumé could be a basis for discrimination
Great looks are an excellent selling point. But someone could use them to form wrong opinions and biases. Unfortunately, including a picture on your CV could have the latter effect. A recruiter could unfairly write you off just by your looks. Recruiters often avoid the risk of legal action for violating anti-discrimination laws. Therefore, they outrightly delete any CV that hints at prejudicial hiring. Your picture on the CV could be why you could miss the chance of a second look.
When could a picture on your CV be beneficial?
Generally, recruiters and employers advise prospects to avoid including a picture on the CV. But there are instances where it could be beneficial. Here is a quick assessment of such situations.
When the culture accepts pictures on CVs as normal
Although it may seem unusual in our region, there are some countries where including a picture on the CV is a norm. For example, in some European countries like Belgium, Germany and France, a photo on a CV is deemed normal and okay. However, don’t just rush and do it; think twice. The reasons mentioned above transcend cultural habits. Even if having a picture on the CV is not counterculture, it could still lower your chances of landing your dream job.
When it would be a plus in the industry
The other instance where a picture on your CV would boost your chances of landing a role is if the job is in an industry that depends significantly on looks. Industries like acting and modelling rely on how candidates look. They are somehow allowed to bias on this basis. For example, if an ad agency is looking for specific features on a lead actor or model, a photo on your résumé could be a plus. However, in such cases, recruiters often request prospects to send their portfolios in the application process. Thus, you wouldn’t need to include a picture on your CV.
Tips for a well-presented picture/headshot
If you are gunning for a lead actor or model role, expert CV writers can help include your picture on your CV. However, in case you want to DIY, consider these top two factors:
Location of the picture on the CV page
- The picture should be on the top right or top left corner.
Quality
- Use a well-shot, clear and high-resolution (not blurry) picture.
- Use professional photos only. Do not use an avatar, selfie, or self-taken shot (unless you are a pro)
- Use a recent and dated photo
The bottom line
Generally, recruiters advise not to include a picture on your CV. Such a move could dampen your chances of landing your dream job. If you feel that it is crucial for recruiters to get a glimpse of your looks, consider improving your LinkedIn profile and adding the link to your résumé.
