One of the benefits of being a member of the Australian Businesswomen’s Network is that you get a page on the community website to promote yourself, your business, offer member to member discounts and offers and to network with thousands of community members and website visitors. I’m forever harping on to members to really get a good photograph to use on their directory entry and in the context of our network there are a number of reasons. This blog post by Seth Godin is a light hearted but meaningful look at how a small thing like a photo can improve your effectiveness with social networks. I’d like to add two more things – in the context of being part of any online business community:
1. If I’m going to do business with you then show me you’re a professional. You don’t need to be in a suit – but look as though you’re doing business. If you’re a chef, then it’s fine to have you with food. If you’re not a chef food (or a glass of wine) has no business being in your photo.
2. I recommend you hire a photographer (or at least someone who has some experience taking pics somewhere other than at family gatherings). If you’re going to take the photo yourself search online for some tips on framing, cropping, lighting and backgrounds. Most digital cameras will take a good enough photo in the right hands (and when set to the best settings). A tripod is another useful gool. Nature shots are my least favourite for a business setting unless you’re a botanist or a florist.
3. If you don’t have a good photo – don’t use a photo at all. It will do more for your reputation that something that is grainy, out of focus, unprofessional or just plain in appropraite.
Here are a couple of better examples of member profiles with good photos. Our Member Directory is currently being upgraded to be gorgeous and also to have lots of new functionality. New release coming soon – and I’ll post when it’s done so that you can come join the community.
