Blog - The Admin Assistant

Shot, Framed & Hung – The Business Of Headshots

by EmilyCooper on 21 May 2013 in Business

Photo credit: The Admin Assistant

Portraying your business image online requires a professional headshot as part of your branding. Your business photo should reflect both your company’s personality, as well as you as a person.

The right headshot will help you stand out from the crowd and convey a message of professionalism. Getting the right look will be the difference between whether you come across as friendly and trustworthy, or stern and unapproachable.

You may remember our article from a couple of weeks ago, 5 Quick & Easy Steps To Instantly Boost Your LinkedIn Profile, where I mentioned that I was soon to get a professional headshot taken. As you can see from the results above, I had a very successful photo shoot and am more than happy with the results.

So, I thought I might share with you the steps I took in order to get the perfect photo. Here are my top tips to help you prepare for that all-important shot:

Take along your current headshot for the photographer to improve on
Show the photographer examples of other headshots that you like
Practice in the mirror in advance and know your best angles
Have in mind the look and feel you want to convey
Wear block colours – they date less quickly
A neutral background won’t distract from your portrait
Keep your make up and jewellery simple, and accessories to a minimum
Take a friend for on-the-spot tips and critiquing
Girls: consider having your hair and make up done professionally
Guys: consider a professional grooming session in advance
Make sure there is only a light amount of retouching applied post-shoot
Relax and have fun!

After a year and a half in business I can now say that I have a headshot that I am proud of, and am wondering why I didn’t do it sooner!

Do you have any other tips to share when it comes to having a professional headshot taken? Pass them on via the comments section below.

Handy Hint #08

by EmilyCooper on 16 May 2013 in Handy Hints

5 Ways To Make Your Home Office Awesome!

by EmilyCooper on 14 May 2013 in Home

Photo credit: Maegan Tintari

If you’re setting up a home-based office, or looking to redesign your current one, here are some ways to make that space as productive and functional as possible.

1. Location, Location, Location

Ensure that you have a designated space for your office, and not just a laptop on the kitchen bench. Whether it’s a loft conversion or a cupboard under the stairs, choose the right location for your needs.
If possible, make sure your office has a door – this can help eliminate distractions. And if you’re short on space, get creative! Even the smallest cupboard or alcove can be transformed.

2. Get Comfy

Make sure that your home office is as comfortable as possible. If you spend a lot of time sitting down, invest in an ergonomic chair. Your desk should be spacious enough for you to spread out, yet not too big to gather clutter.
Consider the temperature and lighting of the space. Your work zone should be airy, with plenty of natural light.

3. Tech Specs

When it comes to hardware, only purchase what you need, and buy the best you can afford. In terms of software, get smart with your technology and opt for ‘light’ versions if applicable.
Security and protection are imperative, and having this in place is a priority. Make sure you do your research and get good advice regarding technology.

4. Be Organised

Consider the amount of storage space you will require in your home office. If you haven’t got much space, go vertical with your storage solutions.
Have both electronic and physical filing systems in place, and stick to them! This keeps clutter and stress to a minimum. Daily and weekly planners are a great way to stay on track and be productive.

5. Inspiration, Not Perspiration

Decorating your space can be more important than just making it look pretty. Colour can influence your moods, feelings and emotions. And the feel of the space can affect your productivity.
Make your home office an inspirational place to work by expressing yourself through artwork, photos, flowers, quotes or posters.

What is the one thing you’d like to improve in your current home office? What is the first thing you’d implement in your new home office? Let us know in the comments below!

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