Is it professional to have a photo on your CV?
While it’s not unprofessional to include your photo on your CV, in the UK, it generally isn’t done (with a few exceptions). It can be considered distracting, and since recruiters only spend a short amount of time scanning each CV they receive, you want to keep the focus on your skills and accomplishments, not your headshot.
It also takes up valuable space on your CV, which would be better utilised by including more information about your work experience.
Additionally, including a photo with your CV can leave you open to age discrimination. It’s illegal in the UK, per the Equality Act, but unfortunately, it still happens.
There are a few exceptions to this rule, however, as the social and cultural norms surrounding CVs vary from country to country. Some countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, or South America require a photo, but in most other places, it’s either illegal or being phased out.
You can include a photo in your LinkedIn profile (as well as your social media accounts), but unless you’re an actor or model in the UK where your appearance is important, leave it off.
Pros and cons of a photo CV
Although including a photo on your CV is generally discouraged in the UK, it's a good idea to get a handle on both the pros and cons of including one so you can make an informed decision.
Pros
- Helps establish a personal connection: recruiters get to see the “face behind the brand.”
- Beneficial for creative roles: if your job relies at least partially on your appearance, including a photo can emphasise your visual identity.
- Common in countries outside the USA: if you’re writing a CV for a job overseas, where photo CVs are more accepted, it will keep you in the running for the position.
Cons
- Can lead to bias or discrimination in hiring: it’s better to let your experience speak for you, not your appearance.
- Irrelevant (and illegal): in many places, such as the UK, US, and Australia, it’s not standard practice to include your photo (with the noted exceptions).
- Not ATS-friendly: some Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) may not process image-heavy CVs well.
How to choose a photo for your CV
If you choose to include a photo on your CV, here are a few tips for selecting the one that will make the most impact.
- Use a professional headshot: the photo should show you in natural makeup, professional attire, good lighting, and show your full face. Avoid “selfies” or casual, candid shots.
- Ensure the photo is high quality: whether it's being submitted online or in a hard copy, make sure your CV is high resolution and printed on a colour printer.
- Don’t add distracting elements: the photo should be small, cropped, and not include props or elaborate backgrounds.
- Keep the photo up-to-date: make sure the photo looks like you now, not 10 years ago.
- Maintain a consistent brand: your CV photo should match your LinkedIn or online portfolio.
- Dress for success: if you’re in a conservative or corporate position, dress professionally, If you're in a creative role, a more casual look is fine.
