What should be a photo for a resume?

When looking for a job, a well-written resume is of paramount importance. Every little thing is important in it, including the presence of a photograph. Of course, it is only the applicant himself who decides whether to insert a photo into documents or not, but there are situations when one cannot do without him, and this must be done correctly.

Currently, a photo in a resume is more relevant than ever, since the first stage of selection is usually carried out according to the received questionnaires without the personal participation of applicants. And in this case the presence of an attached image will be a chance to stand out, attract attention... Firstly, in this way it is easier to visualize a person, to form a more complete opinion about him. Secondly, in the eyes of the employer, such a document will have an advantage, if only because more time is spent on it.

In addition to understanding that the applicant did not take the easier path, the psychological factor also plays a role - if the photo shows a person with pleasant facial features, it will be more difficult to refuse him... Even such a small plus can be decisive. At the same time, one should not hope that a stunning appearance will completely overshadow the lack of experience or necessary professional requirements, since it is the working qualities that are taken into account first.

When choosing a photo for your resume, it is always worth remembering that it can have the exact opposite effect. This usually happens when the image parameters are not suitable for such a document. That's why all options must be evaluated objectively and the most suitable one must be chosen.

There is no clear regulation regarding the size, but the photograph should not be too large - after all, the main data are professional qualities. It is usually placed at the top of the sheet to the right, left, or center. For example, you can take the size of any document photo (3 by 4 cm) or slightly larger (6-8 cm). The shape of the image is rectangular, so it is better perceived. The exception is when there is a portfolio in addition to the resume.

Unlike photography in official documents, it will be better if the resume includes more than just the person's head. Let's say a shot up to the waist, but in no case in full growth, since the small size will make the image too small. In this case, you can sit or stand, taking a relaxed position.

Do not neglect the background. Too bright, overloaded with details, it will distract attention from the person in the picture. There are three win-win options for job seeker photography.

• Neutral background. It can be a stretched canvas or an ordinary wall (but in no case with a carpet or colorful wallpaper). A versatile background - white, gray or beige. In a photo with a dark background, lighting and the skill of the photographer are important. But for a job related to creativity or creativity, this option may seem too boring or mundane.
• Office space, workplace. A photograph from a previous place of work, at a home computer desk, or in any other work environment will show the seriousness of intentions.
• Urban or natural landscape. In this case, it is worth choosing something neutral - in the background there should not be random passers-by, conspicuous signs or buildings.

It has been repeatedly proven that, first of all, any person pays attention to their appearance, especially when it comes to employment. In this matter, you need to pay attention to several nuances.

• Facial expression. A light, barely noticeable smile and benevolence in the look will make a better impression than a stony, tense face or an unnaturally wide smile.
• Clothing. Everything is simple here - you need to start from what vacancy you are applying for. Any business-style clothing is suitable for office work - blouse, shirt, jacket. For the working profession, you can dwell on both a special uniform and an ordinary everyday set without frills and pretentiousness. Hats are welcome only in those areas where you cannot do without them (for example, at the cook).
• Makeup and hairstyle. In order not to overdo it, you should not go to the salon or embody the most fashionable trends. Makeup should be discreet and hair neat. Even in the field of beauty, masters rarely demonstrate on themselves all the fashionable novelties, choosing what really suits them.
• Accessories should also be in moderation. No flashy jewelry, hairpins or jewelry. A watch, glasses, modest earrings or a scarf will be enough for a girl.

It often happens that at the initial stage, people want to hide a specific or informal appearance if they send a resume to a company with conservative views. This position is wrong because the person is simply wasting their time. Usually, the rule here is that the photo should look the same as the person in the interview.

Do not think that your resume can only be supplemented with a snapshot from a professional studio photo session. The photo you need can be found in your home archive or, if you have an idea of ​​how it should look, you can take a new one. This is quite simple, because thanks to modern gadgets, you can handle it even without outside help. At the same time, many sin by applying many filters or trying in every possible way to improve the image with the help of editing programs.

It is perfectly acceptable to remove small imperfections on the skin or traces of fatigue, as well as to make the photo clearer and brighter. - to make it look as natural as possible. Other effects, as well as various additions, can shift the focus and show the applicant as a frivolous person. The color version looks more realistic and is preferred over black and white.

Most often, a text editor Word is used to compose a resume - it is easier to edit it, and the created format is easy to send and open. You can download a suitable sample document from job search sites or compile it yourself. The main thing is that the final document has a doc extension.

You can insert a photo in any convenient way.

1. In the top menu, click the "Insert" tab and select the "Picture" button. In the window that appears, you need to find the prepared photo and click "Insert". If you have forgotten where it is stored and what it is called, you can change the view of the list and make it more descriptive. By right-clicking on the photo that appears, you can change its size, format and position in relation to the text in the resume.
2. The photo can be simply copied using the appropriate command from the context menu (right mouse button). Then, in the right place in the document, you need to put the cursor and in the same way select the "Paste" command. The size of the inserted fragment can be changed using the markers (dots) around it, which will appear after clicking on the image.

Since the perception of photographs is quite subjective, in the process of choosing them, you can turn to the opinion of people competent in this or just acquaintances. Typically, recruiters perceive the image as a whole, while job seekers choose a picture based on those features that they like. Obviously, these two estimates may not be the same. Among the main disadvantages of resume snapshots are the following.

• Incorrect design. In an effort to stand out, a person can abandon the standard resume form and develop an individual version with an original design and structure. However, it is still better to place the photo on top and not occupy more than a fifth of the sheet. In this case, the text should be clearly visible and readable, since in this case it is the main one.
• Poor quality. Too dark, overexposed, indistinct, blurry shots will make a bad impression. If such a photo is difficult to make yourself, you can contact a photo studio or a professional photographer.
• If the applicant is applying for a place in a serious business, the appearance must be appropriate. A frivolous look, revealing clothing or a defiant posture can characterize a person not from the best side.
• Not all HR managers are able to unequivocally appreciate pictures with inoperative mood. This includes pictures from vacations, corporate events and other events. Future management is not always interested in hobbies and what their employees do in their free time.

In addition to assessing the appearance, photography provides a primary indication of whether the applicant will be able to get used to the corporate culture of the organization. Therefore, in the first place are still business or work portraits. Every person must have this option. Light-colored photos are more pleasing to the eye and therefore are beneficial.

A person in dark clothes against the same background risks becoming invisible and will look less presentable, but with good work of the photographer, such a picture can be made effective.

The location of the person and his posture are of great importance. Arms crossed or hidden in pockets, shoulders and head thrown back give the figure in the photo more confidence. However, this position is considered closed and will not cause a strong response.

A slight forward bend, a relaxed position of the shoulders and arms subconsciously evoke more confidence. A supportive smile and good mood will complete a successful portrait.

To give a photo dynamism and emphasize an active life position, you can even bring bright features to a photo for a resume.

In a business suit, it can be a bright blouse or tie, in everyday clothes - suitable accessories or a pattern on the fabric.

In the hands and near a person there may be pens, folders, a laptop, a telephone and other items necessary for work.