I wrote this a while ago but did not share widely so here it is again in case you missed it! And if you are viewing this on your phone I apologize…please look at it on a computer or something with a screen big enough that you can see both the photos and the words. Hopefully they will make you smile.
And on that note, please take the following in the spirit in which it is intended…it’s not criticism…it’s feedback, for your consideration!
When you look at these “leadership profile pics” which set of photos makes you think this “company” values and respects their people, and values how they come across to customers, and other interested parties?
Which photos are more likely to make the people pictured feel supported and valued and respected?
Which ones will the people pictured view with pride and confidence?
Which ones sort of say “we really don’t care how our people look to you or how they feel about their profile pics? We just needed to put something in the spaces beside their names.”
I work with people all the time who cringe at their existing profile pics. No doubt in some cases viewers are cringing too, even if subconsciously. We all know photos are important…but not just any photos…they don’t count of they are bad ones which may, in fact, not just fail to support but actively undermine your individuals’ and company brand(s). Doesn’t it make sense to go a step further than asking leaders to “please send us your headshot”?
Good, considered photography is empowering.
I‘d assert that if your people don’t look good (due to low quality photography) then you as a company don’t look good. And, no, to positioning a lack of investment in photography as your way of allowing everyone to show up as their authentic selves with their own “curated” selfies.
Please understand the job good photography does, and conduct yourselves accordingly. 😉
I’d be happy to help.
kathryn@hollinrake.com
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