When I talk with people about using social networking as a tool in searching for a job, I emphasize that it’s important to have a good photo. It’s OK to have a casual picture for sites such as Facebook and Twitter, but having a professional-looking headshot is critical for LinkedIn.
This has led to several interesting discussions – especially with those who are, shall we say, more mature. As job seekers in today’s market, they are concerned with ageism – being passed over for a position simply because they are older.
One person told me that she wouldn’t post a photo of herself, even on LinkedIn. Another was considering using a photo that was several years old…taken when he didn’t have so much gray hair. Both are highly qualified and would be an asset to any business, but both are over 55.
While I certainly think their concerns are valid, it did lead me to ask: “But, when they read your resume online, won’t they figure out how old you are?” I was surprised when they said that they would only list 20 years of experience and wouldn’t say when they graduated from college.
I then asked “But, what if some of your skills for the position were acquired more than 20 years ago? And, aren’t you running a risk in not being open and honest?” They felt they could address these issues in their interview.
I reminded them that there are several things to keep in mind. First, the average user on LinkedIn is over 40, so those hiring realize that people on LinkedIn are typically older. Second, if the position is a senior-level position, they want someone with experience…and a few (or more) gray hairs.
More importantly, I was concerned about “false advertising” – that is, making the hiring manager or recruiter think that a candidate is younger than they actually are and being surprised when they arrive for the interview. In addition, surveys show that prior to an interview, candidates’ profiles on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and other social networking sites are reviewed. Keep this in mind when talking about your grandchildren on Facebook!
I realize this is a complicated issue. My instinct is that no one should try to hide who they are, especially when looking for a job. That said, I’m not opposed to someone having a “make over” prior to getting their photo taken! I think that the most important factor is being authentic, even if it includes 30-plus years of experience and some lines and wrinkles.
What impression would you get of someone who seems to be deceptive in portraying their age and experience? On the flip side, companies want to hire someone who will be with them for a while…not a couple of years until they reach retirement age. What do you think? What would you do if faced with this situation?
I don’t think we should assume hiring a younger individual guarantees loyalty. I don’t envision any correlation between age and employment loyalty. I agree with you that some type of make-over is very helpful. If you show up looking like the person in the picture, I don’t think anybody will hire you; even if you have a Ph.D. from Harvard University.
Good article.
I agree. Younger definitely does not equal loyalty. In fact, it may – and I stress “may” – mean that they won’t be with a company for more than a couple of years. They may stay just long enough to get valuable job skills and experience.
If the woman in the picture showed up for an interview, I’d run!! Obviously, she’s an extreme example, but I have seem some pretty bad pictures online!
Many people are working past the age of retirement these days. The experience a person has is the important part and not their age. A professional photographer can “de-age” a person’s face for a head shot but not for the interview. A photo that has been touched up may help you get the interview but it is the interview itself that will get you the job!
Good photographers like Dawn can definitely work miracles because they know how to touch up without making extreme changes. A pleasing photo may get you in the door, but then you do have to sell yourself in the interview!
Really nice post,thank you
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