With everything that has gone on this year, so far, you can miss the fact that there are a lot of people looking for a new job. For some it could be that they have been made redundant, others may be small business owners who are simply struggling to make ends meet.

Whatever the reason, if you are looking for a new job do not feel that you are alone in all that is happening. It is not an easy time for anyone looking for work, someone I now recently went for a job, with thousands of applicants.

Facing large numbers going for the same jobs how do you help yourself stand out and give yourself the best chance?

For one there is your CV. I’m not an expert on writing a CV, I have been a self-employed professional photographer for years so can’t remember the last time I needed to write a CV. I do know one way to help you stand out as well as boost your confidence.

There are debates about whether or not you should include a headshot with you CV, however having a professional headshot on your social media profile (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc) does help you get noticed. It is not uncommon these days for a prospective employer to do their research, they will look at profiles of those who apply. If your profile photo shows you as a professional, along with the content of your page, it will help your application. If your profile image shows you at a party it may give the wrong impression.

Going out of your way to have a professional headshot, rather than a selfie, shows a prospective employer that you care about your images and more importantly that you will care about their image.

A Professional Headshot Can Do Much More Than That Though

A professional headshot can make you feel better about yourself and give you that confidence boost that you need. A headshot is the photographic way of getting your hair done or pampering yourself.

We all so often see photographs of ourselves, when was the last time you saw one that made you go, “Wow!”

A great photo of yourself will instantly make you feel better. I often have people in the studio who are nervous, they tell me that they don’t like having their photograph taken. By the end of the session and we have reviewed their images they are feeling more relaxed. They feel happier about themselves. They are looking forward to seeing the final edited headshots.

It’s not just the session though. They get to keep those headshots as a reminder that they do look great.