Don’t glamorize your photos too much.
March brings a flurry of events, from networking gatherings to conferences, so you’ll be out and about meeting new people. Have you ever met someone you only know through social media, and at first, you were confused because they didn’t look like their picture?
This can create an awkward moment as you think, “Wait, you don’t look like your profile picture.”
I faced a similar situation when a speaker took the stage at a conference. She didn’t resemble her image, and the audience, including myself, looked puzzled, wondering why she seemed so different.
I’m unsure if her team sent the wrong photo or if she was an unexpected stand-in who wasn’t used to the spotlight and had no recent photos.
Updating your photos is crucial when planning to make significant changes to your appearance. If you switch between different hairstyles, like straight and curly, having pictures representing all these looks is key. This practice ensures that others can easily recognize you, even if your appearance changes.
Try to maintain consistent makeup for both camera appearances and in-person meetings. There will be occasions when you opt for a more elevated look, but I suggest having a range of styles that build on each other, allowing for a cohesive appearance.
When your image remains consistent—from your branding to your interactions—people are more likely to feel comfortable and trust you. So, aim for a simple everyday look that you can slightly elevate for events. The key is not to make dramatic changes but just enough so people can still recognize you.
As you gear up for your spring events and wardrobe, having a clear plan for your hair and makeup is crucial. Consider new headshots or branding photoshoots if any major changes are on the horizon. This proactive approach will ensure you’re always ready to present your best self.
Your image is people’s first impression, so let it genuinely reflect your greatness.
What challenges do you face in maintaining consistency with your image?