FlexJobs on Facebook - QA on Including Pictures with Resumes

FlexJobs on Facebook - QA on Including Pictures with Resumes on Facebook - QA on Including Pictures with Resumes5Heres what we do on FacebookWe answer your questions If you have a question about in particular, or job searching in general, well help you out.We run contests Some of the contests in the past include asking you to comment about telecommuting and flexible work topics, or to Like on Facebook, or to nominate someone for a free subscription. Our prizes include free or reduced subscription prices and swag like awesome coffee mugs.We keep you informed We link to telecommuting-related news stories and stay on top of trends in the telecommuting and flexible work.Heres a question we we were recently asked on the Facebook pageQUESTION When submitting your resume for telecommuting positions where the company may never have the chance to see you, what is your take on including a head shot (preferably professional) attached to your resume? Do you find this helpful so the employer has some idea of who they are speaking to/interviewing? I wonder if this would up your chances of getting a first call.ANSWER Put a face to your name. In traditional jobs, people meet face-to-face in an interview. However, telecommuting jobs dont often include an in-person interview, so providing a picture can be a good way to personalize your application and put a face to the name. That being said, there are a couple guidelines to followOnly use a PROFESSIONAL, friendly picture. The picture you use can either help to make a good first impression, or a bad first impression. Dont risk the latter.If you dont feel comfortable adding a picture, dont do it. A resume without a picture is just fine too. This is just an option, and one you should use if you want to, not because you think you should.Employers cannot require you to submit a picture in order to apply for a job unless its for acting, modeling, or similar jobs. If a job listing requires that you submit a picture, think about why the employer might want a picture. If their motives seem innocent, it might be alright to comply. But if there are hints of discriminatory practices or other poor motives, proceed with caution.And remember, pre-screens every job listing it finds or receives BEFORE we post it for our members to weed out scams and shady employment practices.