Many modern resume templates let you easily add your picture. But should you? Below we’ll discuss this question and review cases where including your photo is appropriate.
Consider Your Goals
Most job seekers in the U.S. should not include a picture because it’s simply not relevant to the focus of a modern resume or job search.
Remember your resume’s sole purpose: to get interviews for your target job. With few exceptions, your document’s information should serve that purpose by centering on how you’re qualified in your field. The details a picture reveals about you – such as your appearance, race, or gender – have no real bearing on those qualifications or how well you can perform. They don’t need to be part of your resume. In many cases, the photo is actually a distraction that can end up exposing you to a hiring manager’s (conscious or unconscious) biases. Avoid this problem by keeping a strict focus on your pertinent skills.
When To Include a Picture on Your Resume
There are two main scenarios where you’ll be expected or required to include a photo:
1. You’re applying to work in a foreign country
Hiring practices vary by region. In some countries, you’ll actually need to include a photo on your international resume or curriculum vitae (CV). Many job postings specify whether you should send a photograph, but when in doubt, look up the country’s general hiring standards and ensure your document follows them. Below are some countries and world regions where it’s customary to send a photo with your job application:
- Africa
- Austria
- Belgium
- Brazil
- China
- France
- Germany
- Japan
- Philippines
- Portugal
- South America
- South Korea
- Spain
- The Middle East
2. You're applying for jobs in the performing arts
It’s also acceptable to include your picture on a resume for jobs where physical appearance is relevant, such as acting, modeling, or TV broadcasting. Since you’ll already include a professional headshot in your application, the photo won’t trigger any negative implications for HR departments. Casting and modeling agencies look for certain types of builds and appearances for individual roles, so adding a picture at the top of your resume can enhance your document in these cases.
Similarly, you may choose to include your photo for jobs in outside sales, marketing, or real estate, where you’d be expected to make a polished impression on clients and prospects.
How To Take a Professional Picture
Whenever you need to include a photo on your resume, follow these best practices:
- Apply filters as needed to improve brightness
- Ensure your face comprises the majority of the frame
- Feature a friendly smile and demeanor
- Use a high-resolution image
- Utilize a plain background
- Use natural, soft lighting
- Wear professional business attire
(Note: Consider hiring a professional photographer if you’re struggling to get an image that meets these standards.)
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I include a picture on my cover letter?-
Follow the same general guidance as for your resume above. On many resume templates, the photo appears as part of your contact header, making it easy to carry over the same presentation on your cover letter and other job search documents.
Should I include a picture on my LinkedIn profile?-
Yes. Typically, your LinkedIn profile should be slightly less formal than your resume. Adding a photo strikes a more casual and personable tone that helps you connect with others and find opportunities on the site.
Should I put my address on my resume? -
In most cases, yes. But you don't need to give your street address; you can just your current city, state, and zip code.
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