When considering whether to include a picture on your resume, the overwhelming consensus in many professional settings is to avoid it altogether. In regions such as the United States and the United Kingdom, as well as in various industries, including a photo is generally seen as unnecessary and potentially problematic.
The primary reason for omitting a photo is to prevent any form of bias in the hiring process. Employers are encouraged to evaluate candidates based on their qualifications, skills, and experiences rather than personal appearance. Including a photo can inadvertently lead to biases—whether conscious or unconscious—based on looks, age, gender, or ethnicity, which can undermine the fairness of the hiring process.
Moreover, many applicant tracking systems (ATS) used by employers can struggle with resumes that contain images, which may cause your application to be overlooked entirely. By keeping your resume free of photos, you ensure that it is fully optimized for electronic submission and increases the chances that it will be reviewed by hiring managers.
In light of this, our resume builder tool specifically does not include options for adding a photo. Instead, it focuses on helping you present your qualifications in the best light through well-structured content and professional templates. This design choice emphasizes the idea that your experiences and achievements should be the focal point of your resume, showcasing what truly matters to potential employers.
In certain industries and countries, particularly in creative fields or locations where photos are more common, you might find exceptions. However, for the vast majority of job seekers, particularly in more traditional industries, the best practice is to leave the photo off your resume.
In summary, prioritizing the content of your resume over a photo allows you to highlight your qualifications effectively and maintains a professional appearance. Focus on crafting a strong, compelling resume that showcases your skills and experiences, and you’ll make a lasting impression—without the need for a photo. With our easy-to-use resume builder, you can confidently create a resume that captures the attention of recruiters for all the right reasons.
