| Greetings!
Welcome to Your Best Image News! We sincerely hope the information we share with you will help you create a positive image and achieve success in all aspects of your personal and professional lives. |
| Does your Avatar Make A Good First Impression? |
Is this how you took your S.N. photo? |
Are you proud of your profile photo? Is it a photo you took of yourself at arm's length? Is it one from your last vacation, or is it still "the creep" (the shadow image seen before you add your own photo)? Recently I was asked two interesting question about profile photos on the social networking sites. I sent the question to my fellow Tweeps (people who tweet) and Facebook friends. Here are some of the responses along with my thoughts.
Question 1
What's the case for corporate style headshots for business use? When is it OK to be less "corporate"?
My Thoughts
In a professional environment I always recommend using a professional photographer. In keeping with current trends in business, the image may be more "relaxed" but the process shouldn't be. Many of my clients tell me they want a more casual, approachable photo for their profile. That's fine, but if you are using these sites for your professional world, not just your personal world, I recommend using a headshot taken by a professional photographer not a candid shot taken by you, a friend, or family member. The quality will be much better and you will feel more comfortable that the message you portray will be positive.
Input From Others "Yes...I think 1) it's a beginning, 2) it "puts a face to the name", 3) a more professional looking photo is warranted here [versus] say Facebook." Loraine Fields
"Yes, Lori, I think of my social networking photo as important to my brand. [It] helps folks recognize me in different forums. I want my photo to be consistent with my professional image; polished, yet recognizably me." Susan Weiner, Technical Writer for the financial industry
"When I help people with their marketing, getting decent pictures seems to be a serious stumbling block. Almost everyone tells me how much they hate their pictures. Picking out one that is acceptable becomes a time-consuming and frustrating task. The key is to find "you". You want your personality to shine through. One of the core functions in marketing is to choose an ideal client or target market. Think about what they will best relate to." Joy Johnson, Business Builder Marketing
Question 2
Should your Facebook photo align with your business photo if you use Facebook for personal purposes?
My Thoughts
Facebook seems to be a more casual, personal environment with opportunities to enjoy fun conversation and pictures. Your personal photos can be used in a very positive way. An excellent testimonial is a photograph of you doing what you do best. Whether you are gardening or giving a presentation to a large group, the photo can be a very positive representation of your work, product, creative talent, lifestyle, etc. It is a great way to tell your story.
Adding your photo to your social networking sites profiles adds a face to your story. It helps the reader connect with you. That's what the sites are all about, connections. If the particular site is used for business a more business-like headshot is in order. If the site is purely for personal use, have some fun with the addition of more casual photos. But always keep in mind everyone can view your photos. Be sure you are proud of the story they tell.
|
| Product of the Month | 
Sunless Tanning Lotion
We've tried this product and love it!
Summer is just around the corner. Here is a suggestion for the healthy summer tanned look without the sun's harmful rays. This product will give you an even tan and moisturize your skin at the same time. I put it on about one hour before I go to bed at night and wake up with/ a tan.
|
| Upcoming Events |
August 18 and 20, 2010
Business Portrait Special
You've always meant to have a professional headshot done, and now's your chance at reduced pricing. You will enjoy a relaxing photography session in the comfort of Gretje Ferguson's home studio in Dedham. Professional stylist Lori Johnson will be there to dramatically enhance your photo with her makeup application. Lori and Gretje have worked together for 10 years to provide natural professional headshots that compel people to want to do business with you!Sample Photos
|
|
|
|
|
|
About Lori |  | |
Lori Johnson is the founder of Your Best Image, Professional Image Development. Ms. Johnson has been developing successful images for 15 years and has been quoted in multiple publications including Men's Health, Boston Women's Business Journal, and the Boston Globe. Her clients include Massachusetts Department of Employment Training, Fidelity Investments, Pearle Vision Eye Wear, Harvard University, and WBZ News and Radio, Lori is a past President of The Association of Image Consultants International (AICI) New England Chapter and is currently serving on the Board of Directors for the South Shore Chamber of Commerce, a 1500 member business organization.
|
|
|
