10 mistakes to avoid for your CV photo

The CV photo is a key element of your curriculum vitae that can help get you noticed by employers. However, it’s easy to make mistakes when selecting or taking the photo. To make sure your CV photo is professional and enhances your candidacy, here are 10 mistakes to avoid:

1 – A CV without a photo

These days, most employers expect applicants to have a photo on their CV. If you don’t, it can give the impression that you’re not serious or that you have something to hide.

2 – A poor-quality CV photo

It’s important to have a professional, high-quality CV photo. Avoid blurred, dark or grainy photos, which can make your application look unprofessional.

3 – Choose an out-of-date photo

It’s important to use a recent photo that reflects your current appearance. Photos that are several years old can mislead employers into asking you inappropriate questions.

4 – Wear inappropriate clothing

Make sure you’re dressed appropriately for your CV photo, wearing professional clothes. Avoid casual clothes, low-cut T-shirts or evening wear.

5 – Inappropriate backgrounds

Choose a simple, professional background for your CV photo, avoiding animated backgrounds or distracting images. For outdoor photos, choose a neutral, even background.

6 – Don’t take care of your appearance

Make sure you look professional in your CV photo. Wear appropriate clothing and style your hair to look neat and professional. Don’t overdo the make-up.

7 – Having a forced smile or stern expression

It’s important to have a natural smile on your CV photo. Avoid forced smiles or serious expressions, which can give the impression that you’re not welcoming or open.

8 – Use unnatural poses

Try to relax and strike a natural pose in your CV photo. Avoid stiff or unnatural poses, which can make your application look unserious.

9 – Don’t check details

Be sure to check the details of your CV photo, such as brightness, sharpness and alignment, before sending it off. Small details can make a big difference to the quality of your CV photo.

10 – Use a photo that doesn’t look like you

If you want your CV photo to be a success, it’s important that it’s representative of your real appearance. Avoid using a photo that doesn’t look like you, as this can lead to problems at the in-person interview.

In short, the CV photo is an important part of your résumé that can help you make a good impression with employers. Make sure you avoid these 10 mistakes so that your photo looks professional and enhances your candidacy. Remember, the CV photo is one of the first things employers will see, so make sure it’s the best it can be.

At My Shooting Photo, we offer you a no-obligation photo shoot on location or at your home for your CV photo.