Should I use my CV photo?

Cultural preferences contribute to differences in CV styles. However, restrictions limiting what personal information companies are allowed to ask an applicant are increasingly dictating the contents of a CV. Photos play a significant part in this case. Gender, age, ethnicity, religion, and physical traits are all factors that may be revealed through personal images. Employers may not be able to directly request this information in many countries.

In Europe (except Ireland, UK, Netherlands, and Sweden), China and Japan, employers demand to see a photograph with the CV. In fact, if you don’t include one, your application may be overlooked. Companies are not permitted to request a photo in the vacancy notice in some regions (Germany, for example) due to privacy rules, yet they nevertheless want one.

But in USA, UK and Canada, employers in these nations are prohibited from obtaining a large amount of personal information due to labor and anti-discrimination legislation. As a result, employers seldom ask for or require a photo as part of a job application, especially for professional positions. So don’t send a photo or any other information that reveals too much personal information.

Adding an image to your CV and LinkedIn profile is one of the most effective methods to personalize them. Consider it this way: the text on your CV contains facts about your professional history, but the perfect photo may help tell a more complete story and reveal more about your personality to future employers.

Here are some tips on how to create some best CV photos:

1. Make your CV photo professional.

When taking a photo for your CV, keep in mind that you’re shooting a passport photo. The more professional and presentable you appear in the photograph, the more likely you are to be contacted for an interview.

2. Lighting is important for CV photo.

However, you don’t need to hire a photographer to acquire a fantastic, CV-worthy shot; the perfect selfie may seem just as professional and polished if you know the appropriate techniques and methods. One of the key things you’d pay for in a professional headshot is lighting, and it’s also the most likely to disappoint you down in a DIY attempt.

3. Wear properly for your CV photo.

Even though it appears to be a pleasant, easygoing school, it is imperative that you dress professionally while taking your photo, regardless of the position you are looking for. Men should wear a suit and tie, and women should wear a standard business attire. Make sure your tie is tied properly and your shirt is buttoned all the way up for the males, and cover up as much as possible for the ladies.

4. NO make-up or keep clean make-up for your CV photo

If you want to show off your face in a professional selfie, make sure your hair is brushed away from it rather than hanging over your cheekbones or eyes. Less is more when it comes to cosmetics. While your new turquoise eyeliner is perfect for a Friday night out with the ladies, it isn’t appropriate for this occasion. Take your selfie as soon as you’re satisfied; this is when it’ll look the best, with no mascara smudges or cracked foundation.

5. No facial expression on your CV photo.

Avoid any facial expressions that can give the impression that you’re not serious about what you’re doing. This does not, however, imply that you should appear solemn or even furious, as if you were incarcerated for a crime! There is always a medium ground, and a simple grin is more than enough to convey your professionalism and good attitude.

6. Your CV photo should show a serious impression.

A sense of humor is a good thing to have, especially when working in a group, but you want your CV to be regarded seriously. As a result, the way you dress is crucial – at least for the viewable section of the photo – with smart-casual clothes being the best option.

7. Photographed in a good setting on your CV photo.

Make certain that the backdrop is acceptable. Photographs that appear to have been taken in a bar will not convey a professional image. Using images with a basic or neutral background is often a smart choice.