Add a Headshot to Your Personal Branding Toolbox
A professional picture says a thousand words. It can persuade a potential client to call or not to call! Having your face prominently displayed on your marketing material demonstrates honesty and credibility, it says, “This is the face of the business, This is who I am. This is who you will be dealing with.
When your potential client is viewing hundreds or even thousands of choices they will decide very quickly who they want to work with… You want to do everything you can to catch their eye. Remember, you only have a few seconds so make it count!
How do you want to present yourself?
What message do you want to send?
Do you want portray a powerful and stern image like the ones you see of those mega CEO’s in Fortune magazine?
Or
Do you want to come across as someone who is relatable and friendly, as to not intimidate first time buyers.
Either way headshots are critical in the real estate business, they are the leading visual representation of you…so please don’t hold your digital camera at arms length and snap a “quick photo”. Trust me when I say, that rarely comes off looking professional.
Some of you are still sneaking around without a photo at all. You know who you are (*wink*). I really urge you post something;
At minimum ask your broker or a college to take a photo of you against a wall in your office, just be sure not to include the “emergency” flood light in the hallway. Alternatively, we strongly recommend that you invest in some quality pictures by hiring a professional who has the proper equipment and technology to enhance and portray you in the best light possible.
If you really do not want to put your own photo online, perhaps a cool, personalized logo would be your best representation. Either way something is always better than nothing.
Tips on putting your best and most appropriate face forward.
- Simply look like a polished version of you.
- A headshot should be bracketed by space roughly equal to one third on top and two thirds on bottom, this proportion is ideal for drawing the eye to the focal point and creating visual interest.
- A good headshot is intended to market a person “as they are” (you should look your age, for example), but in as positive light as possible, accentuating your best qualities, it should provide the viewer with a glimpse into your character, focusing on you and you alone.
- Clothes should be neat, clean (free of stains, lint, hair), and free of wrinkles. Try to wear something you like, that makes you feel good.
- If you smile, smile with your eyes as well. Otherwise just a “real you” look is best. If you are self-conscious about your teeth, your smile will show it so don’t smile with your mouth open unless you can completely commit to it.
As interaction is increasingly technology based, having a flattering image of yourself helps impart a little humanity, provide face recognition, (and hopefully) convey your sense of enthusiasm, grace, and professionalism.
Enjoy showcasing the real you and keep on selling!
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