As a small business owner, your headshot is a valuable asset that can be used in a variety of ways to promote your brand. In this guide, we’ll show you how to maximize the use of your headshot, from social media profiles to email signatures and everything in between. So, smile for the camera and let’s get started!
Why Your Headshot Matters
Your headshot is often the first impression potential customers have of you and your business. It’s important to make that first impression count. Here are a few reasons why your headshot matters:
- First impressions count. Studies have shown that it takes only seconds for someone to form an impression of you based on your photo—and that that impression sticks. That’s why it’s important to have a professional headshot that accurately represents you and your brand.
- Establishing trust and credibility. A professional headshot can help establish trust and credibility with potential customers. It shows that you take your business seriously and are willing to invest in your online presence.
- Consistency across marketing channels. Using the same headshot across all your marketing channels (social media, website, business cards, etc.) helps establish consistency and reinforces your brand.
Maximizing the Use of Your Headshot
Now that you know why your headshot is important, let’s talk about how to maximize its use across all your marketing channels.
Social Media Profiles
Your social media profiles are a great place to showcase your professional headshot. Here are a few tips for using your headshot on different social media platforms:
- LinkedIn is a professional networking platform, so it’s important to have a professional headshot. Use a high-quality photo with a plain background and dress in business attire.
- Facebook is a more casual platform, but you still want to use a professional headshot. Use a photo with a plain background and avoid using filters or other effects.
- Twitter (now X) is a fast-paced platform, so your headshot should be easy to recognize and stand out in a crowded feed. Use a high-quality photo with a simple background and avoid using text or other graphics.
- Instagram is a visual platform, so your headshot should be eye-catching and visually appealing. Use a high-quality photo with a simple background and consider using filters or other effects to make your photo stand out.
Have you seen our video tutorial on creating your own custom graphics for social media? It’s easier than it sounds! We guide you step by step through using a template to create a graphic using your headshot. Check it out!
Email Signatures
Adding your headshot to your email signature is a great way to make your emails more personal and professional. Here are a few best practices for email signatures:
- Use a high-quality photo with a plain background
- Keep your signature simple and easy to read
- Include your name, title, and contact information
Business Cards and Marketing Materials
Incorporating your headshot into your business cards and other marketing materials is a great way to reinforce your brand and make a lasting impression. Here are a few tips for using your headshot in marketing materials:
- Use a high-quality photo with a plain background
- Make sure your headshot is prominently displayed
- Use your headshot consistently across all marketing materials
Website and Blog
Placing your headshot on your website’s homepage and using it in blog posts and author bios can help establish trust and credibility with potential customers. Here are a few tips for using your headshot on your website and blog:
- Use a high-quality photo with a plain background
- Make sure your headshot is prominently displayed on your homepage
- It can be great to have a library of images to use around your website. Since you have a variety of places you can use a headshot, it’s nice to have several photos with slight differences in expression, pose, or outfit but with the same cohesive, professional feel.
Check out how Katharina used her library of headshots around her website.
Get Creative!
Advertising using your face as part of your personal brand may feel intimidating, but people truly do want to connect with a real person when they interact with a business. Billboards and yard signs may be an option for you. We’ve seen clients use their headshot as part of an ad on an outdoor bench!
Your headshot is a valuable asset for your small business. By maximizing its use across all marketing channels, you can establish trust and credibility with potential customers and reinforce your brand. So, don’t be afraid to show off your smile!
