In general, recruiters in New Zealand recommend that job seekers should not include a picture on your CV. However, there are some industries where a photo on a résumé could boost your noticeability and become a springboard to your interview. Recruiters for jobs like modelling, acting and some people-facing roles often zoom into the candidate’s appearance before looking into the CV.
There are some situations where a picture on a CV could be great. But in some instances, it could work against a jobseeker. To eliminate the confusion, we chatted with professional photographers – Bernie and Allan Gojar, and recruitment expert & CV writing services provider – Arthur Parker Ramani, and they gave us their views on when and how to add a picture on your CV. But first, here’s why it is generally discouraged.
Why a picture on your CV is discouraged
Strict anti-discrimination laws
The Human Rights Act (1993) prohibits recruiters and employers from discriminating against jobseekers. Employers should be careful on matters such as job advertisements, application processes, interviews and job offers. If a person thinks they were unlawfully discriminated against during the recruitment process, they can file a complaint to the relevant authority.
With this in mind, unfortunately, it is easy to see how a picture on one’s CV can imply bias in the recruitment process. CV writing service professionals also advise that jobseekers should not to include a picture on their CV.
A picture on your CV could work against you
Arthur also advises against including a photo on a résumé because one could make formatting mistakes. He says, “If it is not professionally done, it could skew the presentation or take the recruiter’s attention away from the crucial areas (or both)”. He advises jobseekers to include information that grabs the reader’s attention and keeps them reading on the prime space of a CV.
But there are instances when a picture on one’s CV would be crucial. Arthur says, “We generally see CV’s without photos as the norm. Photos are not so commonly seen in New Zealand or Australia. However, sometimes a photo is particularly important for roles such as acting or being in a film. However, most corporate jobs do not call for it.”
When a picture on your CV could work for you
Like Arthur says, there are instances where a picture on your CV would be worth a thousand words. For instance, when applying for roles in modelling or acting. A great picture on one’s LinkedIn profile will also boost your job chances. But the quality must be great. Arthur says, “Having a well presented photo on LinkedIn is a great idea. If possible, ensure your photo is professionally taken. It can contribute to a difference in getting hired.”
Whether on LinkedIn or on your CV, professional photographer Bernie Gojar says that the picture should be well shot and presented. Here’s more on including a picture on your résumé, and how to make it work for you.
How to make a picture on your CV work for you
Use current or recent photos
According to Bernie, the picture should be current. She says, “I highly recommend putting an updated headshot photo for LinkedIn, as this is the professional’s personal brand profile. I define an updated one as a photo that looks like who you are in your current, everyday dealings with your business and professional associates.” Bernie continues, “There should not be a second look to confirm if the person in front is the person they saw on your LinkedIn photo. With the advent of video calls, this consistency becomes even more crucial.”
Ensure the appearance and dressing sends the right message
One may choose to remain plain or communicate a particular vibe. To this, Bernie says, “The choice of clothes, hairstyle, make-up (if you wish), colours, and even the overall vibe, among others, must give visual cues to the person they expect to see and hear in a face-to-face meeting. Consistency is crucial. Please keep in mind their expectations when it comes to clothing as well. If, for example, the potential employers and industry standards would like you to wear a tie, then please do so.”
Consider the target reader’s culture
The world today is a global village. One can apply for jobs in different parts and attend interview calls via video calls. In such instances, one should consider the culture of the target before deciding to include a picture on the CV. According to Bernie, “The cultural nuances must be known and respected. If the culture expects you to put your photo, then, by all means, do so with the parameters I mentioned applied.”
Arthur also follows this up and says, “In certain job markets around the world, photos can be expected. This is more common in Asia and in the Middle East. If you’re applying for a job internationally, consider their local CV writing standards or talk to a professional about it.“
For professional photography services for your LinkedIn profile or CV, we recommend the services of Identity Headshots, provided by Bernie and Allan Gojar. They are based in Auckland. Their website is www.identityheadshots.co.nz . For LinkedIn writing help, feel free to reach out to us at www.executiveone.co.nz
