CV

>

Is Including a Photo on Your CV a Good Idea?

StarStarStarStarStar

Is Including a Photo on Your CV a Good Idea?

by CVMaker

  • CV
  • · February 19 2024
  • · 3 min read
photo on a cv

Table of contents

A commonly raised question revolves around the inclusion of a photo on a CV. While you might think this is a common practice, it's noteworthy that according to UK regulations, it is not mandatory. Over time, career advisors have advised against attaching photos for the majority of job seekers. However, the advent of social media platforms, notably LinkedIn, has introduced a layer of complexity. This article will explore the rationale behind excluding it, and in addition, if you wish to add a photo, we offer valuable suggestions on the best approach to take.

Reasons for avoiding photos on a CV in the UK

There are multiple reasons why the majority of career advisors strongly discourage the inclusion of a photo on a CV. These reasons predominantly revolve around the concept of 'unconscious bias'. Opting not to include a photo shields candidates from potential discrimination and safeguards employers from facing allegations of prejudiced decision-making, particularly concerning factors such as race, age, or gender.

Additional tips to keep in mind when deciding whether or not to add a photo on a CV:

  • Many modern companies adopt a blind CV review strategy, concentrating solely on objective job-related criteria. This technique eliminates subjectivity, with some organisations even disregarding applicant names during shortlisting to eradicate bias.

  • Including a photo in your CV might unintentionally divert attention from your qualifications and skills. Opting out of a photo ensures your application is assessed solely on its merits.

  • Certain fields like acting and modelling prioritise appearance, but even within these industries, including a photo remains optional rather than obligatory. Check out our acting CV example for more inspiration.

Best practices for including a professional picture on a CV

Should you opt to include a photo in your CV, it's essential to adhere to these key guidelines:

  • Ensure your photo is taken by a professional, capturing you against an appropriate background and maintaining correct proportions.

  • Refrain from using a selfie for your CV as such images can often create a negative impression among hiring managers.

  • Ensure the photo fits neatly within the allocated space, maintaining a balanced and visually appealing layout.

  • Choose a current photo rather than one that appears outdated. Presenting yourself as you are now helps create a genuine and accurate representation.

Ideally, you want your CV photo to reflect well professionally on you. Therefore, it should express your professional acumen and character. Lawyers, for instance, should appear presentable and professional. By contrast, adventure activity organisers should appear energetic, engaged and enthusiastic.

If you want to see a good CV with a photo, refer to our French CV or German CV example.

Looking to create a professional CV?

Start now

Alternative ways to introduce yourself

Of course, you don’t have to include your photo directly on your CV - you can include it in your application through other means. If you have a LinkedIn profile, you can do something similar. Some candidates, for instance, provide hyperlinks to their pages within the CV. By doing so, you’re providing the manager with additional background information on you and your suitability - this can be useful if you have linked recommendations you’d like to show off.

Camera Flash

Pro Tip

Make sure your LinkedIn profile matches the information on your CV.

Key takeaways

Securing job positions commonly occurs without the inclusion of photos, making it clear that such additions are not obligatory. For the overwhelming majority of roles, your physical appearance holds little relevance. Thus, we advise considering a photo only if its inclusion is mandatory.

For most candidates, crafting a compelling CV through quality writing remains paramount. The ultimate goal is to impress the hiring manager with your expertise in the field and your comprehensive grasp of the subject matter. This, after all, is precisely what they are seeking. Generally, a candidate's appearance holds minimal significance to companies as long as their competence to excel in the job is evident.

FAQ

Does a picture add value to a CV?

In most cases, a picture doesn't significantly enhance a CV and can sometimes introduce biases. It's advisable to focus on relevant skills and experience instead.

Should I add the same photo for my CV and Linkedin?

Yes, maintaining consistency between your CV and LinkedIn photo is recommended for a coherent professional image.

What kind of photo should I add to my CV?

Choose a professional headshot with a neutral background, wearing business attire, and maintaining a pleasant expression.

Start creating your CV

Create a professional CV quick and easy with our advanced CV Builder

+ Create CV

Updated February 19 2024

StarStarStarStarStar

Written by

The CVMaker platform offers a complete career platform for jobseekers with handy tools and valuable information. Are you ready for the next step in your career? Start here today!

Related articles

Tips to improve your CV
  • CV
  • · Mar 11 2024
  • · 8 min read

10 Tips on How to Improve Your CV (Free Guide)

by CVMaker

Article on how to write a good CV with tips and examples.
  • CV
  • · Feb 07 2024
  • · 6 min read

How to Write a Good CV in the UK (Examples, Tips, and Templates)

by CVMaker

Cover letter opening statement
  • Cover letter
  • · Mar 15 2024
  • · 8 min read

How to Start a Cover Letter: 8 Expert Tips for Lasting Impact

by CVMaker

Land the interview for your dream job with CVMaker

Effortlessly create your professional CV within 10 minutes and download it whenever and wherever you want!

AddSmallCreate your CV
CheckCircle

Increase your chances of landing your dream job with CVMaker.