From Basic Training to the Boardroom: The Value of a Professional Headshot
Gonzalo Duran serves as its Chief Executive Officer, celebrating over 10 years of service. Devil Dog USA Incorporated fulfills various functions, such as hosting a talk show called Vet Talk, providing space for other organizations to convene, offering programs for veterans and community members to interact, and organizing events for the public to foster relationships with veterans and the community.
For many individuals, headshots or portrait photos are often confined to class pictures during school years. After high school, the practice of taking formal portraits tends to fade away, with headshots becoming more commonly associated with celebrities, actors, or high-powered CEOs. However, the importance of a professional headshot extends far beyond the world of fame and fortune.
In the military, headshots are a standard part of the process. Upon completing basic training, service members automatically receive graduation headshots, which often accompany them throughout the early years of their careers and serve as cherished mementos after they leave the service. For most, these headshots are not frequently updated unless they are selected for meritorious boards or certain billet positions.
After transitioning out of the military, many veterans discover that their new professional roles do not explicitly require headshots. However, being prepared with a professional headshot should not be left as an afterthought, reserved for last-minute situations.
In today’s competitive professional world, a headshot is an essential tool that differentiates you from others. For instance, if you’re hosting an event with a local organization and they need to feature your image on a flyer, having a ready-to-go professional headshot is crucial. Instead of scrambling to get one taken at the last minute, having a polished headshot in your portfolio should be a basic requirement for any professional.
After transitioning out of the military, many veterans discover that their new professional roles do not explicitly require headshots.
GONZALO DURAN
A professional headshot is more than just a formality nowadays; it’s a key element of your personal brand, whether you’re a veteran transitioning to civilian life or a professional climbing the corporate ladder. In the digital age, social media platforms are often the first places job recruiters and the general public turn to when evaluating potential job candidates or assessing someone’s professionalism.
Understanding this need, Devil Dog USA Incorporated has partnered with James Washington Ward of Today’s Pixels to develop a program specifically for veterans. Their “Readiness to Work” initiative provides veterans with the opportunity to obtain professional headshots, ensuring they are prepared for any professional scenario that may arise. This program not only empowers veterans to present themselves confidently in the civilian workforce but also underscores the importance of being prepared for the opportunities that may come their way.
In an era where first impressions are often made online, a professional headshot is not just a nice-to-have but a necessity in today’s fast-paced world. Whether you are a seasoned professional, a recent veteran, or someone looking to make a career change, having a high-quality headshot can open doors and set you apart in a crowded job market.
Want new articles before they get published? Subscribe to our Awesome Newsletter.
CAREER ADVICE
GOV TALK
