Why professional headshots make a huge difference

Before I dove headfirst into running my own business, I was living the corporate dream managing others' businesses.

And by "dream," I mean color-coordinated folders, cold calls (yes, I said cold calls—go ahead and date me), and printed-out brochures that were basically websites on paper. Imagine taking every page of your current website, printing them off, and sliding them into a branded folder like some kind of prehistoric content delivery system. That was our “digital presence.” Cute, right?

Social media? Ha! Not a thing yet. Websites? Meh, barely there. It wasn’t until the internet became as essential as coffee, and Facebook turned into the newest networking goldmine that businesses finally went, “Wait a second… maybe we should actually look like we exist.” Enter: visual branding. Suddenly, how your business looked online mattered just as much as what you did.

Fast forward to today, and visual marketing isn’t just “nice to have.” It’s do-or-die. And right at the center of it all? Your headshot. Yep, that little glob of pixels is the first impression people get of you and your brand. No pressure, right?

Now, let’s talk reality. You’ve got a website, a LinkedIn profile, probably an Instagram page with a sprinkle of Facebook, and maybe a business card or a fancy networking app. But here’s the kicker—if your headshot is rocking a hairstyle from three jobs ago or was taken with your phone in bad lighting, you’re basically sending out the message: “Hey world, I’m not really keeping up.”

Think about it. You go to a networking event, shake some hands, hand out your card. A few days later, someone tries to remember who you were. They look you up and—surprise!—your photo looks nothing like the person they just met. Cue awkward confusion and lost connections. Not exactly the vibe we’re going for, right?

A great, current headshot does more than make you look good. It says you’re professional, you care about your brand, and yes—you’re still alive and thriving in 2025. It helps people remember you, trust you, and want to work with you. It can literally open doors. Whether it's a new client, a business collab, or someone just trying to match a face to a name—they all start with that one photo.

So if your headshot is older than your last phone upgrade, maybe it’s time for a refresh. Your brand (and your future clients) will thank you.

Here are some ways you can use your updated professional headshot:

Professional Networking: The most common use of headshots today is professional online networking on sites like LinkedIn. A clear and professional headshot can help you stand out to potential employers and clients who want to work with you.

Branding: Headshots play an important role in personal branding. If you're an entrepreneur or creative professional, a headshot can help establish your personal brand and differentiate you from your competition.

Social Media: Whether it's LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram, a headshot can help people recognize you and build your online presence. The most important thing with social media is to keep your content relevant, changing, and current. We always say to create and post images that “stop the scroll”.

Business Cards: Many professionals also use headshots on their business cards to make a lasting impression. It's a great way to showcase your professionalism and personal brand, especially when networking in person. There are also apps now, such as Blinq, that allow you to personalize your profile and instantly share it with those you wish to connect with.

Press Releases: A headshot can be a valuable asset for press releases, articles, and other media coverage. It helps people associate your name with your face and can increase your visibility.

Speaking Engagements: A headshot can be used in promotional materials for your speaking engagements. It helps to give your audience a visual connection to the person they're listening to.

Website Bios: A headshot is not only necessary on your website, it’s vital. It adds a personal touch and can help build trust with your audience. Especially when used in a creative way on your About page, showing your personality and inviting people to connect with you.

Email Signatures: Another great place to use a headshot is in your email signature. It helps to personalize your emails and can make it easier for people to connect with you when they meet you in person.

There are lots of other uses for your headshot. There are fun and creative apps popping up every day that you can use to give your image a boost and attract people you want to work with.

So, how’s your current headshot? Do you need me to update it? Call me today and let’s get you booked.