MUNCIE, Ind. — When looking for a job, a first impression is key, even when you cannot meet in person. A good picture and a smile will help with that.
According to a study from LinkedIn, people who include headshots receive 21 times more profile views and nine times more "connection" requests. With millions of Americans out of work, every advantage helps.
Earlier this week, people had an opportunity to boost their resume with free headshots. Joe Krupa set up his studio in Muncie and photographed any unemployed person who stopped in.
“It’s a great way to give back to the community. Around here everybody is feeling the pinch, so why not do something that can help somebody,” Krupa said.
Krupa volunteered as part of the 10,000 Headshots project, where for one day 250 professional photographers created pop-up photo studios in all 50 states to provide complimentary headshots for unemployed Americans.
Chase Holtzinger drove nearly 3 hours to have his picture taken.
“I love it. It was excellent...way better than I could have ever expected,” Holtzinger said. “I’m going to attach it to my LinkedIn and hopefully jumpstart it into a new career.”
Krupa said each session would normally have cost about $250 dollars. He was the only photographer participating in Indiana.