CV : 7 conseils pour réussir et bien choisir sa photo professionnelle

First of all, remember that today, a photo on a CV is not mandatory. A recruiter cannot require it (except in special cases), although some appreciate it. While a candidate's skills, degrees, and experiences are paramount, we cannot ignore the importance of presentation and attire in a job interview, especially in certain fields (notably customer-facing roles, the Fashion & Luxury sector, etc.). 

Adding a photo to your CV is not a necessity, but can be a plus that potentially makes your profile stand out, helping the recruiter remember your application. 

Moreover, adding a photo to your profile is encouraged on professional social networks like LinkedIn. A LinkedIn profile with a photo is 14 to 21 times more likely to be viewed and receives 9 times more connection requests than profiles without one. In this case, a photo on LinkedIn is not just a plus; it is essential! 

If you are considering adding a professional photo to your CV because you think it might boost your chances of being contacted by a recruiter, discover our 7 tips for choosing it well: 

 

Choose a sober and professional outfit, similar to what you would wear for a job interview. For example, dark trousers with a white shirt for men or straight black trousers paired with a white blouse for women. In any case, your outfit should match the dress codes of your field. Also, pay attention to your hairstyle, makeup, and shaving: everything visible in the photo should be neat.  

 

To get a flattering photo, it is important to choose the right angle. Take the photo either from the front or three-quarters, with your face turned towards the camera. This captures your features in a flattering and natural way. Ideally, the photo should include your head and shoulders, as this gives a balanced and professional image.

 
Also, think about framing: it is crucial to leave space around your face to avoid looking cramped or confined in the frame. Make sure your face is well-centered and that the background is not too busy, to keep the focus on you. 

 

To get a professional photo, it is essential to choose an appropriate environment. Opt for a plain background, like a neutral-colored wall, which won't distract from your face. Avoid holiday or party photos, as well as those where you are accompanied by pets or other people, as they can give a less serious and professional impression. 

Finally, choose a bright place so that your face is well-lit and avoid backlit shots, which can create unwanted shadows and make your photo less clear. 

 

Your attitude in the photo is crucial to making a good impression. Show your best side by smiling and standing straight. Your gaze should be fixed and determined, showing your confidence. Avoid overly serious or rigid expressions, like those required for passport photos. You can smile, just make sure your expression is professional and not excessively cheerful. 

Also, avoid poses and staging that can seem artificial and unspontaneous. The goal is to appear both natural and professional. 

 

If you like applying filters to your private photos, avoid doing so on your CV photo. However, feel free to increase the brightness of your photo, but without overdoing it. If you wish and know how to do it, you can also make some touch-ups to erase small imperfections. But be careful, the result should be natural and sober, and the modifications should not be noticeable. If you don't know how to do it, refrain from trying!

 

In July 2021, 33% of LinkedIn users stated that their profile photo was actually a selfie, according to a survey conducted by Hays among more than 17,000 respondents. However, selfies, which are not very professional, have no place on a CV or LinkedIn. Instead, ask someone to take your photo, such as a friend or colleague, ideally a professional. 

 

Make sure that all your photos on the internet accessible to potential recruiters present you in a good light. Pay particular attention to those you have posted on social networks that remain visible to outsiders. To be sure not to forget anything, type your name directly into Google Images and check the photos that appear. Change or delete them if necessary and monitor your account settings to control who can see your posts. 

As you can see, it's up to you to decide whether or not to add a photo to your CV. But if you decide to do so, don't forget to follow these tips and stay professional!