Profile Picture Mistakes

Like it or not, our potential clients do notice and care what we look like in our online directory profile pictures. I find therapists making these common mistakes all of the time and unfortunately it gets in the way of them connecting with potential clients. Now, do you need to look like a supermodel to get clients in private practice? No- of course not!! But avoiding these common picture mistakes can make all of the difference:

Not Having a Picture

Potential clients want to know what you look like. Think about it! Most people are very nervous before seeing a new therapist. Having an idea of what their new therapist looks like helps a client feel more comfortable and therefore more connected to their new therapist before the first meeting.

Looking Uncomfortable

Do you ever look at a picture of yourself and think, "Damn, I look like I don't want to be there"? Your potential clients want to see you looking confident, comfortable, and like you want to be there. I find that many people strain their eyes or smiles when getting their pictures taken and the result is that you look super uncomfortable. Luckily there are a few ways to combat this:

** Pretend that the person taking the picture is someone you care deeply about.

** Think happy, loving thoughts when you are getting your picture taken.

** Take deep breaths and try be relaxed.

** Take a bunch of different shots so that you have many to choose from.

** Hire a professional who can help you get the right shot.

Forgetting to Consider Your Target Population

When you choose a picture for your online profile, don't forget to consider who you are marketing to! Who is your ideal client and what kind of picture would they be attracted to? This is why it is super important to decide on a niche. Different kinds of clients will be intrigued by different types of pictures.

Here are some examples of headshots or pictures a therapist might choose to put on their profile. Take a minute to wonder what kinds of clients might be interested in working with them:

Using a Glamour Shot

Remember when people used to get Glamour Shots at the mall? At best the pictures come out looking incredibly stunning and at worst the look ridiculous. The problem with using a glamour shot for a therapist profile is that you don't look like that everyday. Try to find a picture that looks like you on a very good day!

Being Out of Alignment

Try to pick a photo that represents who you are as a therapist. If you are a creative arts therapist who utilizes play, creativity, and art to help kids, you may not want to choose a super serious picture of yourself in a business suit. Make sure to let your true personality shine in these pictures.

Remember- this is the first exposure your potential new client will have of you. First impressions are important for a good reason. Make it count and take extra cosndierations to avoid these mistkaes when picking your profile picture.