The Impact of a new photo on Ecademy

Yesterday I received a couple of messages from contacts on Ecademy. I don't use Ecademy very much; I have a 'quiet presence'. Whilst I was checking my messages I decided to change my photo whilst I was there. Now as you can see, it is hardly "Russian Bride Catalogue"but it has generated a flurry of interest from gentlemen on Ecademy who want to "Get to know me better". I was astonished that the new photo created this rush (at the last count 33 requests after 12 hours).
Given that Ecademy is an online business tool, any visual image is particularly powerful. We have photos on websites and marketing material that create an image of the person and also one makes decisions on this.
I remember when I was offered my first teaching post in Kenya, the (appalling) headmaster admitted that his staff had chosen me because of my photo; they didn't consider my cv or interests.
A good photo can get you an appointment, or be one other method by which people make a decision about your company. It could be you have already contacted them and spoken by telephone - where an opinion has already been made, and a photo could reinforce an opinion.
Of course we are manipulated by digital enhancement, and on one level we know that it is not 'real' (sound samples of music and videos of my musicians are only an indication of the quality of their performance, but clients are able to make a quick decision on whether or not they wish to receive more information), but it is a tool for drawing in potential custom.
It is a challenge to create the right image; perhaps my image isn't right for Ecademy given the response.... but perhaps a combination of different styles of photos; portraits and action shots would be powerful.
Find out more about Executive Voice on http://www.executivevoice.co.uk

The 'Accidental' Self Employed and Interview Techniques

This morning I read the article below in the Daily Telegraph.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/personalfinance/consumertips/5249429/Jobless-in-Henley-Whats-in-it-for-the-accidental-self-employed.html


Being unemployed is tough: really tough. If you have had a professional career and suddenly find yourself made redundant or 'accidentally self employed' it has an effect on your self esteem and ultimately your performance when you are being interviewed for another position.

Executive Voice with two other outstanding trainers, have devised a two 1/2 day workshop called 'VOCAL, VISUAL& VITAL' focusing on all aspects of searching for a job, preparing, creating a positive mind set, body language, using your voice to make an impact in the interview room, negotiating terms..... and more. Unlike other interview skills workshops, we are working with the 'whole' person to identify weaknesses and provide tools to perform well at all stages of the job search and interview process.

For more details go to: http://www.executivevoice.co.uk/vvv.html