Put Your Face on Your Freelance Job Profile
One of the comments that I received in this blog complimented me for having a pretty face. I deliberately selected a good looking picture that is just appropriate for this blog. I have also a face to go on my online profiles at freelance sites too.
Pictures on online profiles are not really that necessary. But I still find it important for doing so. I have two good reasons why pictures should be placed on profiles. The first one is that some potential clients appreciate the extra effort of seeing a picture uploaded on a profile. The second reason is a psychological one: clients tend to get more attracted towards dealing a person at the other side. For a freelancer who has to work with clients in other countries, then this thing should not be underestimated.
Not all pictures are appropriate for online profiles. I would rather stay away from hot and titillating pictures and other similar types. I would also stay away from cartoon avatars, dogs and cats and other pictures that look best on very casual social circle settings. It is not fitting for finding such work on most professional online jobs. Mug shots are okay, but I would prefer seeing a warm but professional picture. Just pick anything that does not look too casual.
Others like to take pictures of themselves working at a computer terminal. A few take pictures of the logo or name of the company that they are working with. Pictures taken at photo studios can help, as long as you direct the photographer to what kind of photos that you want these to be. Some avatar representations work too. I’ve often seen writers use a pen and paper avatar and computer programmers often use computer keyboards.
If your job is the one that emphasizes more on creative skills, then I’d like to see more creativity on reflected on picture instead instead of the mug shot. Personally I would rather hire a person who sports a funny or cute caricature of himself. Some graphic designers even try put up pictures of themselves posing creatively.
Keep in mind that pictures are just a part of the package that you are trying to sell to potential clients.
What makes your freelance profile stand out?
