Many modern templates allow job seekers to easily include their pictures on their resumes. The question is whether this is the right approach for job seekers. Although there is some nuance to the answer, the general consensus is that you should avoid adding a picture on your resume if you’re applying for jobs in the U.S., UK, Ireland, or Canada. Throughout this guide, we’ll evaluate this question in more detail and examine situations where including your picture may be appropriate.

Why Shouldn’t You Include a Picture on Your Resume?

Companies need to comply with fair and equal hiring practices. Including your picture creates potential issues for employers, as they’re supposed to evaluate candidates based on their qualifications rather than their physical appearance. Not only will your picture increase your risk of falling victim to discrimination during the hiring process, but it’ll also make you look less professional in the eyes of hiring managers. Rather than placing a picture of yourself on your resume, you should take a professional headshot for your LinkedIn profile. In fact, you likely won’t generate job opportunities on the platform without one.

When Should You Include a Picture on Your Resume?

If you’re applying for some international jobs.

Hiring practices vary from country to country, and there are situations where you’ll actually need to include a headshot on your international CV. For example, if you’re applying for a job in China or Japan, you should include a picture of yourself at the top of your document.

In many instances, the job posting will clarify whether a photograph is a requirement for the application. Before submitting your resume, you should take the time to evaluate the country’s hiring practices and ensure that your document complies with their specific hiring standards.

Countries Requiring a Picture on Your Resume

Do Don’t
  • China
  • Japan
  • Austria
  • France
  • South Korea
  • The Middle East
  • Philippines
  • Belgium
  • Portugal
  • Brazil
  • Germany
  • Spain
  • Africa
  • South America
  • The United States
  • The United Kingdom
  • India
  • Sweden
  • The Netherlands
  • Australia
  • Ireland
  • Canada
  • South Africa
  • New Zealand

If you’re applying for some entertainment roles.

If you’re submitting a resume for an acting or modeling position, it’s also acceptable to include your picture. Because you’ll already include a professional headshot in your application, this won’t trigger any negative implications for HR departments. Casting and modeling agencies are looking for particular types of builds and appearances for individual roles, so adding a professional photograph at the top of your resume can be a helpful addition to your document.

How to Take a Professional Picture for LinkedIn

The first step in adding a picture to LinkedIn is obtaining a professional headshot. You’ll want to avoid taking a picture with a vibrant background, as this might be distracting or appear unprofessional on the profile. Be sure to dress in business attire, as you want to send the right message to recruiters and potential hiring managers while applying for jobs. You’ll also need to ensure that you use the right lighting balance to prevent your face from being obscured in the photo. You always want to put your best foot forward in every aspect of the job search, and going the extra mile with your headshot will send a strong message about who you are as a professional.

Best Practices for Taking a Professional Headshot for LinkedIn: 

  • Wear Professional Business Attire
  • Hire a Professional Photographer
  • Use Natural, Soft Lighting
  • Look Straight at the Camera
  • Feature a Friendly Smile and Demeanor
  • Ensure Your Face Comprises the Majority of the Frame
  • Use a Plain Background
  • Apply to Filters to Optimize Brightness

Things to Avoid When Taking a Professional Headshot for LinkedIn: 

  • Wearing Casual Clothing
  • Providing a Low-Quality Photograph
  • Poor Lighting
  • Obscuring Your Face With Your Hair
  • Wearing Distracting Accessories
  • Using a Distracting Background
  • Having Others in Your Photo

How to Include a Picture on Your LinkedIn Profile

After you’ve secured your headshot, you’ll be able to update your picture by clicking on the image at the top left-hand side of your profile. You’ll be given options to edit and upload your photo and crop it according to your preferences. This must be added either as a PNG or JPEG file. Once you’ve uploaded the image, you’ll need to click save to add it to your profile. Be sure to avoid using a full body shot for this, as you want to focus mainly on your head and shoulders when cropping the image.

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Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

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