Headshots for Resume: When to Use One and When to Skip

People ask this question all the time: should I put a photo on my resume?

The honest answer is: it depends on where you are applying and what role you want.

In some places it is common. In others it is better to avoid it.

When a resume headshot can make sense

A headshot is more common in public-facing fields, personal brand roles, and speaker-focused profiles.

It can also make sense when your resume is part of a profile packet with LinkedIn and bio pages.

When to skip it

In many standard US hiring contexts, resumes usually do not include photos.

If you are unsure, skip the photo and keep your LinkedIn profile updated instead.

Use a current image with a neutral background and natural expression.

Avoid casual selfies, heavy filters, and crop mistakes.

Create one clean profile image you can use where it makes sense.