Microsoft Office

How To Insert Picture In Resume Microsoft Word

When it comes to creating a professional resume in Microsoft Word, one important aspect to consider is how to insert a picture. A well-placed photo can enhance your resume and help you stand out from the competition. But how exactly do you go about inserting a picture in your resume? Let's explore the steps to successfully incorporate your image into your Microsoft Word resume.

Adding a picture to your resume in Microsoft Word is a relatively straightforward process. First, ensure that your picture is professional and appropriate for a job application. Then, open your resume document in Microsoft Word and navigate to the section where you want to insert the picture. Click on the "Insert" tab, select "Pictures" from the dropdown menu, and choose the image you want to insert. Resize and position the picture as needed, and you're all set. Remember to save your document to keep your changes.



How To Insert Picture In Resume Microsoft Word

The Importance of Including a Picture in Your Resume

When creating a resume, it's essential to highlight your professional skills, experience, and qualifications. However, one often overlooked aspect is including a picture. Adding a professional-looking photograph can make your resume stand out from the crowd and leave a lasting impression on recruiters and hiring managers. In this article, we will guide you step-by-step on how to insert a picture in your resume using Microsoft Word. With this knowledge, you can present a visually appealing and well-formatted resume that showcases your professionalism and attention to detail.

Why Should You Include a Picture in Your Resume?

The decision to include a picture in your resume may vary depending on the industry and country you are applying to. While some countries discourage or prohibit including a photo due to potential discrimination concerns, in many fields, particularly those that require strong interpersonal skills such as customer service or sales, adding a picture can be advantageous. Here are a few reasons why you should consider including a professional photograph in your resume:

  • Personal branding: Including a picture allows you to present yourself visually, enhancing your personal brand and making your resume more memorable.
  • Stand out from the crowd: In a competitive job market, a well-placed picture can help your resume catch the attention of recruiters and hiring managers.
  • Showcasing professionalism: A professional-looking photograph demonstrates your attention to detail and professionalism.
  • Visual representation of skills: Certain roles, such as modeling or acting, require a headshot or portfolio, and including a picture allows you to showcase your visual qualities.

Preparing Your Picture for Insertion

Before inserting a picture into your resume, it's crucial to ensure that the image is appropriately formatted and optimized for professional use. Follow these steps to prepare your picture:

Choose a Professional-looking Photograph

Start by selecting a high-resolution, professional-looking photograph. Ideally, choose a headshot where you are dressed appropriately for the industry you are applying to and conveying a confident and friendly demeanor. Avoid using selfies or casual photos and opt for a clear, well-lit image.

Resize and Crop the Picture

After selecting the picture, you may need to resize and crop it to fit the dimensions of your resume. Use image editing software or online tools to adjust the size, ensuring that the photo is neither too large nor too small. Maintain the aspect ratio to avoid distorting the image.

Save the Picture in the Right Format

Save the picture in a format compatible with Microsoft Word, such as JPEG or PNG. These formats ensure that the image quality is preserved and compatible across different devices and software versions.

Keep the File Size within Limits

To prevent your resume from becoming too large and difficult to send or upload, reduce the file size of the picture. Compress the image using appropriate software or online tools while maintaining a balance between file size and image quality.

Inserting the Picture in Microsoft Word

Now that you have prepared your picture for insertion, follow these steps to insert it into your resume using Microsoft Word:

Step 1: Open Microsoft Word and Access the Resume Document

Launch Microsoft Word on your computer and open the resume document where you want to insert the picture. If you don't have an existing resume, create a new document by selecting a resume template from Microsoft Word's template library.

Step 2: Position the Cursor at the Desired Insertion Point

Click inside the resume document at the point where you want to insert the picture. Typically, this is at the beginning, near the header section, or beside your personal information.

Step 3: Insert the Picture

Go to the "Insert" tab in the Microsoft Word ribbon and click on the "Pictures" button. Locate the prepared picture file on your computer and select it. The picture will then be inserted at the cursor's position.

Step 4: Adjust the Picture Size and Position

Resize the picture by clicking and dragging its corners or edges. Maintain the aspect ratio by holding the Shift key while resizing. To reposition the picture, click and drag it to the desired location within the resume document.

Step 5: Format and Style the Picture (Optional)

If desired, you can further customize the picture by applying formatting options such as borders, shadows, or picture styles. Right-click on the picture and select "Format Picture" to access the formatting options in Microsoft Word.

Considerations When Using a Picture in Your Resume

While including a picture in your resume can be beneficial, it's important to consider the following factors:

Industry and Company Standards

Research the industry and company you are applying to determine if including a picture aligns with their standards and preferences. Some fields, like finance or legal, may have strict guidelines against including photos to eliminate bias in the hiring process.

Relevance to the Job

Consider the job requirements and how a picture can enhance or detract from your application. If the role does not require a visual representation, it may be best to prioritize other aspects of your resume.

Professional and Consistent Appearance

Ensure that the picture you choose aligns with the professional appearance you want to convey. It should be consistent with the overall layout and design of your resume, complementing the font, colors, and style.

Wrapping It Up

Adding a picture to your resume can serve as an effective visual element that sets you apart from other candidates. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can confidently insert a professional photograph in your Microsoft Word resume. Remember to consider industry and company standards, relevance to the job, and achieving a professional and consistent appearance. With a visually appealing resume that showcases your skills and professionalism, you increase your chances of making a positive impression on potential employers and securing the job you desire.


How To Insert Picture In Resume Microsoft Word

Step-by-Step Guide to Insert Picture in Resume using Microsoft Word

When creating a resume in Microsoft Word, you may want to include your photograph to personalize and enhance its visual appeal. Follow these steps to insert a picture in your resume:

  1. Open your resume document in Microsoft Word.
  2. Place the cursor in the desired location where you want to insert the picture.
  3. Go to the Insert tab and click on the "Pictures" option.
  4. Select the image file from your computer and click "Insert."
  5. Resize the picture if necessary by clicking and dragging its corners or edges.
  6. Adjust the picture position by clicking and dragging it to the desired location.
  7. To add some style to the picture, you can click on the "Picture Style" option and choose from various formatting options available.
  8. Save your resume document.

Remember, choose a professional-looking photograph that aligns with the nature of the job and the industry you are applying for. Make sure your picture does not overshadow the content of your resume and remains an appropriate addition.


Key Takeaways - How to Insert Picture in Resume Microsoft Word

  • Adding a picture to your resume can make it more visually appealing.
  • Inserting a picture in Microsoft Word is simple and can be done in a few steps.
  • To insert a picture in your resume, open Microsoft Word and go to the "Insert" tab.
  • Click on "Pictures" and choose the image you want to insert.
  • Resize and position the picture according to your preference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to our FAQ section on how to insert a picture in a resume using Microsoft Word. Here, we answer some common questions that professionals often have about adding images to their resumes. Read on to find step-by-step instructions, tips, and tricks for inserting pictures into your resume using Microsoft Word.

1. Can I add a picture to my resume in Microsoft Word?

Yes, you can add a picture to your resume in Microsoft Word. Follow these steps to insert a picture into your resume:

Step 1: Open your resume document in Microsoft Word.

Step 2: Place your cursor in the desired location where you want to insert the picture.

Step 3: Go to the "Insert" tab on the top toolbar.

Step 4: Click on the "Pictures" button and select the image file you want to insert.

Step 5: Resize and position the picture as per your preference.

Step 6: Save your resume document.

2. What size should the picture be in a resume?

It is recommended to use a professional-looking headshot for your resume. While there aren't specific size requirements for a picture in a resume, it's best to choose an image that is clear, well-lit, and captures your professional appearance.

Aim for a picture that is around 2x2 inches or larger. Avoid using blurry or pixelated images as they can negatively impact the overall impression of your resume.

3. How do I resize a picture in Microsoft Word?

To resize a picture in Microsoft Word, follow these steps:

Step 1: Select the picture by clicking on it.

Step 2: Go to the "Format" tab on the top toolbar.

Step 3: In the "Size" group, you'll find options to resize the picture. You can manually adjust the height and width values or choose from the preset options.

Step 4: Make the necessary changes to resize the picture as desired.

Remember to maintain the aspect ratio of the picture to avoid distortion. Press "Save" once you're done.

4. Can I add multiple pictures to my resume in Microsoft Word?

Yes, you can add multiple pictures to your resume in Microsoft Word. Follow the same steps mentioned earlier to insert additional pictures. You can resize and position each picture individually as per your requirements.

Keep in mind that adding too many pictures may make your resume file larger and harder to share electronically. It's best to include relevant pictures that enhance your resume rather than adding excessive visuals.

5. Can I place the picture anywhere in my resume?

While you have the flexibility to place the picture anywhere in your resume, it's recommended to include it in the header or beside your contact information. This allows the reader to easily associate your picture with your personal details.

Ensure that the picture placement does not disrupt the flow of the resume or make it appear cluttered. Maintain a clean and professional layout.



Incorporating a picture in your resume can be a valuable addition to showcase your professionalism and make a stellar first impression. Microsoft Word provides a user-friendly way to insert a picture into your resume. By following a few simple steps, you can include a visually appealing image that complements the content of your resume.

To insert a picture in your resume using Microsoft Word, first, make sure your cursor is at the desired location. Then, click on the 'Insert' tab at the top of the Word window and select the 'Pictures' option. Choose the image you want to insert from your computer files and click 'Insert.'


Recent Post