Before you announce your new role on LinkedIn consider these thoughts accompanying your professional image.
“ I’m happy to share that I’m starting a new position as… ”
Congratulations on your new appointment!
As you step into this pivotal role, your presence, both in-person and online, will naturally come under the spotlight. This transition isn't just a change in responsibilities; it's a transformation of how you're perceived by colleagues, industry peers, and the public. One critical aspect of this is how you visually present yourself – is it time to commission new portraits?
The Value of a Fresh HEADSHOT:
Reflecting the Evolution:
Your journey has led you to this new role. A fresh portrait can symbolize your evolution, capturing the essence of your journey and the maturity of your experience. It's not just a new picture; it's a visual representation of your growth and readiness for this new challenge.
Setting the Tone:
As a leader, you set the tone for your team and company. A new portrait can communicate your leadership style – be it approachable, dynamic, innovative, or steadfast. It's an opportunity to visually align your personal brand with the values and direction of your new role.
First Impressions Matter:
For many, this portrait will be their first introduction to you. It will grace social media announcements, news articles, internal team presentations and probably also the company's website. A current, professional portrait ensures that you make a strong first impression, presenting yourself as the forward-thinking leader you are.
Risks of Not Updating Your Portrait:
Missed Opportunity for Rebranding:
Sticking with an old portrait might mean missing out on a chance to rebrand yourself in line with your new position. As you evolve, so should your image. An outdated photo might not do justice to the person you've become or the role you've undertaken.
Another big no-no is to add quickly a selfie, preferably taken in unflattering lighting and in 0.5 mode as the arm seems to be too short. In some situations super wide-angle shots can be fun. But headshots and personal branding portraits are not the field of such playful distortion.Inconsistent Messaging:
If your portrait doesn't align with your new role's gravity or the company's current branding, it might lead to inconsistent messaging. Your image should be a cohesive part of your professional narrative, not a disjointed piece.
Perception of Stagnancy:
In a world that values progress and innovation, an old portrait might subconsciously signal stagnancy. A new role is about moving forward, and your image should reflect that momentum.
Concluding Thoughts:
As you embrace this new chapter, consider how a new portrait can be more than just an updated photo. It's a chance to redefine your professional image, to signal confidence, readiness, and vision. It's not merely about how others will see you, but how you choose to present your evolved self to the world. The question isn't just whether you should commission new portraits but what you want those portraits to say about you as you step into your new role.
Questions? Suggestions?
What are your thoughts on this matter?
Happy to hear from you,
Catch me for he next article
Patric
#PopYourImage #LinkedInProfile #Portrait #Headshot #NewJob #NewRole
