Can I Use A Headshot On My Resume?

I hardly ever recommend that any of my clients use a headshot on their resume. This would create too many opportunities for unfair judgement based on appearance.

With that said, there are rare instances where a picture on the resume might not be the worst idea.

For example, if I have a resume client that has very minimal work experience (with minimal transferable skills) and no degrees or certifications to showcase, then I may recommend a picture on the resume if nothing else is working. In some instances, this may be the only way for an under-experienced individual to have any chance of standing out among other applicants for a highly sought after job. 

I think of a client I had many years ago. He was only 20 years old and had no college degree to showcase. He had only taken two or three courses. For work, he had 2 years of experience as a landscaper. Majority of his experience was manual labor. He had very limited contact with customers. Despite the lack of relevant credentials, he was bound and determined to apply for some competitive sales jobs. 

I could only showcase so many relevant skills and traits on the resume, so in this case, I went for the picture strategy! This client had some very professional-looking headshots with a formal suit.

He looked VERY SHARP! He looked like MORE than a landscaper, which was the message I wanted to convey! 

Plus, after speaking with him, I knew he had the natural people skills and positive, high-energy level that is often needed to succeed in a sales job. I knew that all he needed was a chance to get the interview.

Did this strategy work, you ask? Well, I'm pretty sure he's not a landscaper anymore.