Are you tired of the traditional paper resume? Looking for a way to stand out from the crowd in your job search? A video resume might be just what you need. With technology and social media getting lots of attention, videos are used everywhere, including jobseekers.
But what exactly is a video resume? Simply put, it allows you to go beyond the limitations of a paper resume.
In this article, we will explore the effectiveness of video resumes, what they should contain, and provide some tips on how to make a video resume. Let’s get into it!
Key Takeaways
- Video resumes are a creative and effective way to show employers who you are and what you can do to have higher chances of getting a job.
- Video resumes can save employers time in the initial screening process and give jobseekers a chance to stand out and demonstrate their potential.
- A video resume should contain the basic information of a traditional resume, but with a focus on presentation and showcasing skills and personality.
- The key to creating a successful video resume is to plan it out, stay true to yourself, use good equipment, and edit carefully.
What Is a Video Resume?
A video CV is essentially an elevator pitch but in visual form. It allows you to introduce yourself to potential employers and show them why you are the best candidate for the job. And you do it in a more creative and personal way than a traditional resume.
That doesn’t mean video resumes are here to replace traditional resumes. They rather complement them and add an extra layer to turn the decision in your favour. They give employers a glimpse of your personality, communication skills, and presentation skills in addition to your qualifications and work experience.
A video can range from 30 seconds to a few minutes. It’s not good to make it too long, as employers are usually pressed for time. That’s why some simple editing is your best friend when making a video resume (for example, it could be something beginner-friendly as Movavi).
Video CVs can take many forms depending on the industry and the individual’s unique style. For instance, a graphic designer might create a video showcasing their portfolio while incorporating eye-catching animations and multimedia skills. This approach highlights their past work and demonstrates how they can bring their skills to the job.
On the other hand, someone in sales or marketing might craft a conversational-style video. They could simulate a quick pitch, demonstrating their confidence, communication skills, and ability to engage an audience. For more creative fields like acting or performing arts, a video resume might include clips of performances or auditions to give employers a taste of their talent and stage presence.
Even for less creative fields, knowledge on how to make a CV video can make the candidate quickly get noticed among hundreds of other applicants.
What’s the key? Tailor the video to the job’s requirements, your skills, and personality. We’ll discuss this in more detail later on.
The Effectiveness of Video Resumes
It’s not like just any video will land you the job. Still, video resumes are good as they actually work. And they work for both employers and jobseekers.
On the employer’s side, video resumes can save a lot of time in the initial screening process. Yes, they still have to go through resumes and cover letters, but a video can help them:
- rethink which resumes are worth reading,
- get a better sense of the candidates’ personalities,
- and see their potential to represent the company.
For jobseekers, video resumes provide an opportunity to show what they are made of. We all know how frustrating it is if we are not even considered for a job because, on paper, we don’t seem to be the perfect fit. Videos can change that.
If we also bring in some statistics, studies have shown that nearly 80% of hiring managers say that videos are more effective for checking out a candidate’s skills and over 60% of employees believe video resumes could give them that job offer.
What Should a Video Resume Contain?
A video resume should contain the basic information that you would include in a traditional one. Sounds obvious, right? But it’s not quite that. Instead of just listing, as you do in a paper resume, it’s more about the presentation. This is what you should consider when creating your video CV:
- Introduction
Start with a brief introduction of yourself and state the position you are applying for. Don’t start talking about your qualifications just yet, as you will have the chance to do so later in the video. First impressions matter, so be as confident as you possibly can.
- Education
Mention your education background and any relevant certifications or training. Don’t show off, though! Mention how your education and training have helped you develop the skills needed for the job.
- Why you want the job
Explain your interest in the company and why you are excited about this particular position. Show that you have done your research on the company and have a genuine interest in working there and making a positive impact, not just getting any job that comes your way.
- Work experience
Highlight your relevant work experience, but don’t repeat what’s already in your written resume. Instead, use this opportunity to expand on those experiences and showcase how they have prepared you for the new position.
Here you can also include any notable achievements or projects you have worked on. Use visuals (like screenshots or clips) to showcase your skills.
- Strengths
Use examples or stories to illustrate how these strengths have helped you in previous roles or projects. This will make it more personal and memorable.
- Call to action
End your video with a strong call to action, thanking the employer for their time and expressing your enthusiasm for the next steps in the hiring process. This shows that you are proactive and motivated.
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How to Create a Video Resume?
Now what? How to make a CV video? Diving into it without a plan can lead to something ineffective. Here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Don’t wing it
Plan your video resume just like you would plan a presentation. Know what you want to say, how you want to say it, and the tone you want to convey. The best thing is you can do as many takes as you need to get it right. And edit until you’re satisfied afterwards.
2. Be Yourself
Don’t try to be someone you are not. Lying on your resume, exaggerating, or trying to be too slick can backfire. Be genuine and let your personality shine through. That’s what employers are looking for.
3. Use Good Quality Equipment
Pixelated or shaky videos, where you walk in and out of frame, will be put into a “no” pile quickly. Use a good quality camera and tripod, check if you can do something about the lighting, and test your audio beforehand.
4. Edit
Trim any unnecessary parts, combine clips via reasonably seamless transitions, add text in case you want to highlight something visually or just for a cleaner look, and even add background music if it fits your style. But don’t let the editing overshadow what you’re trying to say (unless you’re applying for a video editing job).
Final Thoughts
Today’s job market is highly competitive, especially in such industries as media, marketing, or tech. Learning how to make a video resume might help you impress your potential employer and show that you are the best fit. Don’t be afraid to try something new – your dream job might be just one video away.
Are you ready to stand out from the competition or find a perfect candidate? Dayjob Recruitment offers professional recruitment services and more for your next career move or top talent search in Australia. Contact us to learn more and make your next job search a success!
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