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Should you put a headshot on your resume?

In the United States, a photo on a resume is not the usual practice, and Second Summit's resume tools leave it out. Where your headshot does belong is on your LinkedIn profile, your own page and your email signature.

Why we leave it off

  • Application forms and tracking systems read the words on a resume. A photo adds nothing they can use.
  • A photo can invite questions about things an employer should not weigh. Some hiring teams would rather not see one.

Where a headshot does belong

  • Your LinkedIn profile.
  • Your own page, if you have one.
  • Your email signature.
  • A printed leave-behind, if you choose to bring one.

If you apply somewhere else

In some countries a photo on a CV is common. If you are applying there, follow what is usual in that country and in the job posting.

Make one

The free headshot maker makes the sizes for those places from one photo, in your browser. Your photo is not uploaded.

Questions

Does Second Summit put a photo on my resume?

No. Our resume tools leave it out.

Can I add one to the PDF anyway?

The resume designer does not place a photo on your resume.

What if the employer asks for a photo?

Follow what the employer asks.

Is a photo bad on a resume?

It is not the usual practice in the United States, and we leave it out. It is your choice.

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