Video
resumes can help job candidates stand out in highly competitive job markets,
demonstrate professionalism, creativity, initiative, and help job seekers land
interviews. It’s important to avoid mistakes, however, because a poor video
resume can cause prospective employers to cross you off their lists and can
harm your reputation in the industry you want to work in.
What is a video
resume?
A
video resume is a short–usually 60 seconds or less–video introduction that job
seekers submit with their cover letter and traditional resume. In most cases,
the candidate uses the video resume to introduce himself or herself and explain
skills and experiences that make the candidate especially qualified for the
job. Some job seeking services allow candidates to upload videos directly to
their accounts; job seekers can also provide the video on a CD or DVD with
paper materials or put a link to it in their cover letters.
When are video resumes
appropriate?
Video resumes
aren’t always appropriate. Not every employer is willing to look at a video
resume. In advertising, marketing and other jobs that require Internet
knowledge and creativity, employers often appreciate video resumes. However,
more “traditional” employers may not look favorably upon candidates that submit
a video resume, especially if they aren’t sure how to access it. Always check
out the company before submitting a video resume to see how appropriate it is
to do so.
Advantages of video
resumes
If
your prospective employer is willing to consider video resumes, there are
several advantages to sending one.
·
The employer can get more of a sense of who you are than he or
she can get from reading a paper resume and cover letter.
·
You have the opportunity to demonstrate both your creativity and
your professionalism.
·
You can make the job seeking process a little more personal.
The disadvantage to video resumes
The major
disadvantage to video resumes is that if your video is poorly done or is
unprofessional, it can hurt your chance at landing a job interview. Plus, if a
poorly done video resume is hosted publicly and other employers gain
access to it, it can hurt one’s reputation.
How to create a successful video
resume
If you decide a
video resume is appropriate for your industry, there are several things to keep
in mind when creating your video.
·
Professionalism
is most important. Dress professionally and make sure the video’s sound and
picture is professional quality. Don’t submit a video resume that has glitches
or background noise.
·
Express
confidence. Sit up straight, look right into the camera and talk clearly. Don’t
talk too fast or too quietly.
·
Make
sure you give your full name at the beginning of the video and again at the end
so your prospective employer remembers who you are.
·
Don’t
talk about personal experiences; keep the focus on your professional life.
·
Thank
the job recruiter for his or her time at the end of the video.
Once you’ve
created your video, have some friends or family members review it. You may need
to re-film several times before your video is ready. Then, upload it and give
the link to your job recruiter. Make sure you submit a paper resume as well –
the video resume should supplement your traditional resume, not replace
it.
If done
correctly, video resumes can enhance your chances of getting a job. Take the
time to create a professional and polished video, make sure your prospective
employer accepts video resumes and submit it with your application materials in
order to have the best chances of landing your dream job interview.
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