The recent tech layoffs have caused a lot of disruption in the job market, making it harder than ever to find and secure a new position. But even amidst all this uncertainty, one thing remains true: first impressions count. That is why investing in professional headshots can be an invaluable asset as you search for your next career opportunity. Professional headshots provide potential employers with an initial impression of your professionalism, and can be included on your resume, LinkedIn profile, or other professional documents. In this article, we'll discuss why headshots are important and how they can provide an essential boost to your job search.

Why Are Professional Headshots Important For Job Seekers?

When looking for a new job, headshots can be an invaluable asset. Not only do professional photos help you make a good first impression on potential employers, they also create a more cohesive online presence that reinforces your professionalism and expertise.

Headshots provide potential employers with an initial impression of your professionalism, and can be included on your resume, LinkedIn profile photo, or other professional documents. Having professional headshots also lets you stand out from the competition by providing recruiters with polished visual content to accompany your written materials. This is especially important if you are applying for positions in creative fields like marketing or design, as having headshots can make it easier for recruiters to connect your skills and experience with the role at hand.

Make A Good First Impression

On average, a recruiter uses 19% of their time scanning through profile pictures versus reading information about a candidate. This statistic shows how important your LinkedIn profile picture can be.

Great headshots can make a great first impression on potential employers by giving them an idea of your professionalism and presentation skills. Having a professional headshot communicates to recruiters that you take pride in how you present yourself, and that you’re serious about pursuing the job opportunity.

Professional headshots also provide recruiters with an initial impression of how you look and come across, which is something they may not get from reading your resume alone. This can help them form an immediate connection with your application materials, making it more likely that they will remember you when considering candidates for the position.

Create A Cohesive Online Presence

Headshots can also help create a more cohesive online presence. Most job seekers now have multiple social media profiles, and having professional headshots for each one can be an effective way to reinforce your image and ensure that potential employers get consistent messages about who you are. Having the same headshot across all of your accounts also makes it easier for recruiters to find you in search results and recognize your name when they come across it.

Finally, professional headshots can be used to upgrade your resume or other professional documents. Many employers prefer resumes with pictures as it helps them visualize the candidate's personality and professionalism – something that is often difficult to convey solely through words on paper. Professional headshots can make sure that your resume looks polished and professional, and that potential employers are drawn to the content rather than being put off by an unprofessional appearance.

How to Get Professional Headshots on a Budget

With the right research and resources, getting quality headshots doesn't have to break the bank. Investing in professional headshots can be an easy and effective way to present yourself in the best light possible when searching for a new job.

For job seekers who have recently been laid off, investing in professional headshots can seem like an unnecessary expense. But there are ways to get quality headshots on a budget.

Ask a Friend

To start with, consider asking friends or family members who are experienced photographers if they can help you out. Even if your friends or family don’t have the most high-end camera, ask them for a simple, outdoor headshot session.

Take A Professional Headshot With Your iPhone

Many smartphone camera apps, like iPhones, now have portrait mode capabilities that can be used to take decent pictures, which is a great option for those who are really strapped for cash but still want to invest in professional-looking photos.

If you don’t know where to start, check out our guide to help you take professional-quality headshots with your iPhone.

Consider a Virtual Headshot Session

Virtual sessions are often more budget-friendly than traditional photo shoots because they eliminate travel costs and other overhead expenses. With virtual sessions, photographers can work with clients over video chat or through email using photos taken on their own devices. This means that no additional equipment needs to be purchased, making it an ideal option for job seekers who are tight on money, but still want professional headshots.

For context, 415Headshots’ virtual sessions cost anywhere from $49, in which you receive a 10-minute coached session in your home and one, retouched image. Our retouching process includes flyaway hair removal, teeth whitening, color correction, inserting a background of your choice, and more.