What photo for your resume?

According to recent studies, French recruiters pay more attention to your professional experience and diplomas than to your physical appearance. And, according to these same studies, only 3% of them start reading your resume with the photo...
Should we believe a study where recruiters, aware of the times, may have somewhat transformed reality...? The fact remains that the photo is, undeniably, that "little extra" that can tip the balance in your favor and offer you the green light to a first interview...

1. Your photo should be likeable
The main idea, the objective of this photo that you will wisely place at the top right, is to awaken the sympathy of your reader, to be the little boost that your diplomas and experiences needed to get the "GO". Thus, let's take the example of Pierre and Paul who have relatively the same professional portrait, equivalent diplomas and experiences. Between Pierre with his worn-out, grayish-white shirt, his pale and solitary photo booth look and Paul, who freely occupied the space with his serious and relaxed half-portrait, matching his smart white shirt, it's all clear...

2. Your photo should convey seriousness
Application advisors confirm it: "From photo booth photos to partially professional photos, the one that has the best effect is the classic photo" of approximately 6.5 by 4.5 centimeters, taken at a photographer's. Your photo should highlight, at the same time, your seriousness and your calm and confident nature. It should subtly confirm what your resume states. And while it is obvious that a good photo will in no way replace qualifications in one field or make up for shortcomings in another, it will nonetheless tip the balance whenever there is hesitation between two or more candidates.

3. Remember that...
...psychologists have discovered that an observer judges a photographed person, their abilities and behavior, in just 150 milliseconds, less than a sixth of a second. This suggests the need to present a correct photo on your resume. So remember to avoid your vacation photos and/or photo booth pictures and make an appointment at a studio to take a set of simple (or elaborate, if your financial means allow it) application photos.

4. Your photo should be classic without being old-fashioned
To be classic, you must respect the dress codes of each field of activity. Thus, the expectations in terms of advertising agencies will undoubtedly be less austere than those of banking agencies... And so on. To avoid being old-fashioned, you should also avoid falling into the antique caricature of the perfect employee, hair neatly combed, side parting and square glasses. Be the best version of yourself, it's still the role you'll mimic best physically. Regarding color or the eternal black and white, both being accepted and appreciated, your choice will be your decision. Just know that black and whites are said to be more expressive by photography professionals. Furthermore, consider that sober colors, discreet jewelry and appropriate hairstyles are welcome when the opposite would be highly detrimental.
Smile!
The ReKrute.com Team