How are you perceived?
Have you ever sold anything on eBay?
If you have you’ll have seen that as well as having the option of adding a free photograph of what you’re selling, eBay also allows you the option of adding up to 10 more additional photographs.
Why do they do that?
Because eBay knows that photographs help to sell things much better than descriptions alone.
What has this got to do with you?
Well as a therapist, people are looking to you for help. They want to know who you are, what you’re like, can they trust you and will they get on with you, and while a detailed written description can help, they’re often boring, time consuming and often not read. It is best for a website owner to check out some options here, before making their website official.
Prospective clients want to know and see who they’re investing their time, money and health in and while a photograph isn’t perfect, (video is much better for several reasons which you can see here) they can portray you in many different ways including professional, friendly and confident and go a long way to building trust, credibility and rapport; after all a picture can speak a thousand words.
So, with this in mind, how do you wish to be perceived?
With today’s modern technology nearly everyone has the potential of taking a photo however not everyone is a photographer! If you want to be perceived in a positive way (in literally the best light) on your website and in your profile pictures, you’ll either want to hire someone who knows what they’re doing or put some thought into what you do yourself. For example, a poorly lit selfie in a hoodie hardly gives the impression of professionalism!
But if you take the time to work out who your prospective clients are and what they’re looking for, you can turn a poor quality selfie into something that can work for you…
So for arguments sake, let’s pretend that your clients are searching for a friendly, relaxed and professional therapist. By changing what you wear, how you sit/stand and your grooming, you can start to change how your image is perceived.
Am I starting to look more professional yet?
Maybe, but the background and quality of the photo are still poor. It’s important to realise that everything visible in your photograph can form an impression of you and your services to your prospective clients. The back of a 1970’s vainer door doesn’t look that professional to me!
The background of this photograph is much better (below) and whilst it’s not
“therapistie,” (shooting in your therapy room or office can be a good idea if it’s suitable) it is neutral and has a relaxed, professional feel about it. The relaxed feeling we want is further enhanced by sitting down and with more light in this location, the overall quality of the photograph has also improved…a lot!
We’re getting there:-)
But I still wouldn’t use this image because it’s still missing one of the main elements that our clients are looking for; it doesn’t look that friendly…
So, with that in mind, I can change my posture and facial expressions accordingly (give us a smile:-) and if I’m happy with the background and light (which may mean taking the photo at a particular time of the day and moving things around) I can take the shot.
What do you think, does this photo look more professional, friendly and relaxed?
They say you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover and yet with so much choice out there, especially online, people are looking to make decisions quickly and easily. Show them what they’re looking for and you’ll attract interest. Remember it’s not what you like but what they like that will help them choose you over the competition. Again, how do you want to be perceived?
One last thing…
There are lots of options when it comes to photography and what’s best for you and your business but as ever, it’s going to depend on what you’re trying to achieve. I took most of these photos at home, quickly, with a phone, whilst decorating and with no other purpose than to write a blog post. They’re not perfect by any means but way better than a selfie. Just think what you could achieve if you give your images some thought and attention.
Perhaps you could frame the shot in a certain way to add a headline? It can be a great way to grab attention, share a message and give the photo even more purpose. It can also help S.E.O.
From your website and copy to your photos and business card, everything you do gives an impression of you and your business. If you want more clients to book with you, show them what they need to see to perceive you as professional, trustworthy and credible.
Have fun, play with things and if you need any help get in touch.
Keep well.