Too often I see consultants trying to promote themselves as experts in their fields with a random snapshot or photo from 20 years ago in which they are obviously wearing outdated clothing. Having an up-to-date professional photo to use in marketing your business goes a long way in showing that you are on top of your game.
Website
For most businesses, a website is one of the best marketing tools, and if it’s not generating business for you, the site probably needs help. If a user sees good content on the first page, she can bet she’ll go to the About Us page to try and find a photo and bio. The image could make or break their opinion of you as a consultant.
visiting card
You should always have a stock of business cards to hand out to new people you meet. Most good business cards include your image on the card. A business card without a picture can be thrown away because the person can’t remember who you are, especially if you gave them the card during a big networking event where you went home with a stack of business cards from other companies.
Facebook
You’ve probably been tagged in some photos on Facebook looking goofy, but that doesn’t mean your profile picture has to look bad. Everyone expects to see some silly photos of you too, but wouldn’t it be nice to have a professional photo as your profile picture? The image does not have to be a rigid business portrait. Ask your photographer to take some fun, casual photos as well.
User information
If you’re promoting yourself in a brochure, wouldn’t it seem natural that potential customers would want to see your photo along with the amazing things you’ve done? Adding a good image of yourself in marketing materials makes you more approachable as a consultant.
Magazine article
If you ever write for magazines, which is a great way to establish credibility, ask the magazines if they’d be willing to include a photo of you next to your article. It will help people start to recognize your name and face as the expert.
Press release
If your company sends out press releases, it’s a good idea to also include a photo along with the press release. Editors probably won’t include the photo in the article, but it gives your story a better chance of being taken seriously by the editor.
