Why a Smile is Worth a Thousand Corporate Dollars: The Importance of Professional Corporate Portraits
When we think of company investments, we think of stocks, bonds, office equipment, marketing, and possibly even a lifetime supply of the world's finest coffee. But there's one item that frequently doesn't make the cut, and it's more potent than a double espresso shot: corporate pictures. That's correct. Prepare to roll out the red carpet because your company needs its own Hollywood moment.
I'm not talking about the standard monochromatic, stiff-postured, impersonal images that make even the most eccentric CEOs seem like tax auditors. No, I'm referring about the professionally done, vivid, personality-dripping corporate pictures.
You may wonder why any reasonable company would spend in such foolish vanity. Hold on to your ergonomic office chairs, because I'm about to unveil the utterly underappreciated power of professional corporate photographs.
Mount Rushmore for Business
People associate Apple with a half-eaten apple, but they also recall Steve Jobs in his distinctive black turtleneck. What is the Virgin Group? Richard Branson is kitesurfing while carrying a model on his back. Tesla? Elon Musk, most likely sending a Tesla Roadster into orbit. They've created their own Mount Rushmore for their company image, and you can, too!
No, we're not proposing you take up extreme sports or orbit your workplace furniture. A compelling photograph, on the other hand, may generate a lasting image that mirrors the essence of your company. And if someone ends up carving your face into a mountain, that's just icing on the cake.
Mona Lisa's Effect
People have been falling over themselves for ages, wondering the mysteries behind Mona Lisa's half-smile. Consider the impact of your corporate picture. Prospective customers will be captivated by your alluring glance and enigmatic grin. They'd sign contracts only to get to the bottom of the mystery!
The Uncomfortable Business of Trust
For a time, let's become serious (but not too serious). In business, trust is essential. Your organization may emerge from behind the corporate curtain with professionally shot corporate photos, making you and your workers look more dependable, accessible, and, yes, human! Just make sure you're prepared with your best 'trust-me-I'm-an-expert' grin.
The Ultimate Conversation Starter
Consider this: You're about to enter a meeting with a new customer. "Hey, you're the one with the daringly different corporate portrait!" they exclaim, recognizing you from your corporate image. Congratulations for breaking the ice quicker than a polar bear on a speedboat! Corporate photos, when utilized properly, may serve as interesting conversation starters, putting everyone at ease.
Avoiding Portrait Pitfalls
Okay, let's take a lighthearted detour and talk about some things to avoid. We don't want your corporate photo session to be remembered as the next viral meme (unless that's your marketing plan, in which case, go ahead and do it).
How to Avoid the 'Family Christmas Card - Nobody wants to see similar sweaters and awful grins screaming "help us!" Keep it professional, everyone!
'Zoolander Blue Steel Look' - Yes, that was amusing in the film. But in a business portrait? Not at all. Unless you're in the comedy industry or a professional model, keep the pouts to a minimal.
The 'I'm Too Busy For This' Image Looking out into the distance while holding your phone to your ear may seem to be a smart idea at first. It simply states, "I'd rather be doing anything but this." This is a portrait camera, not a candid camera!
To summarize this photo-finish story, keep in mind that a picture is worth a thousand words, but a professional corporate image may be worth a thousand contracts. It's time to go out from behind the spreadsheets and PowerPoint presentations and give your company its fifteen minutes (or ideally much longer) of fame. So be ready to say "cheese," because the future of your company may rely on it!
