Video Resume: Basics
Most employers are looking for personality, creativity, intelligence, and effort in their
prospective candidates. A video is an extra opportunity to show a company why you
really would be an excellent addition to their team so have fun and take advantage of it.
Video resumes come in many different formats, which express individuality – You can
customize your resume based on your suitability. There is no set rule for creating a video
resumes unlike a set format of paper resumes.
Video resumes are best when they're between one and three minutes long. There is a lot
you can say in 60 to 120 seconds. Introduce yourself clearly and tell the viewer why
you're the right person for the job. Remember you only have a few seconds to engage
them and have to keep them interested. End with something along the lines of, "Thank
you in advance for taking the time to read my resume.‖
Body language is also important. Maintain eye contact with the camera and have a happy,
cheery disposition.
And it's important to dress as though you're attending an interview.
Present your personal brand
Before filming, pinpoint your personal brand. What do you want to be known for? What
sets you apart from other candidates vying for the same position? Decide on the relevant
skills, experiences and qualifications that you want to highlight.
Think results
Communicate achievements that would leave a positive impression on employers in your
field. For instance, have you been promoted, awarded a scholarship, or received
recognition as intern of the organization? Or maybe you saved an organization time or
money, effectively resolved a conflict, closed a sale, or received a pat on the back for
fantastic guest service? When possible, quantify major results by including numbers,
dollar amounts and/or percentages.
Be creative
Avoid simply reading out your resume word-for-word! Brainstorm interesting ways to
market your personal brand and accomplishments. Consider filming yourself ―in action‖
demonstrating a skill that you have, incorporating appropriate props or filming in
different contexts.
Ms. Priyanka Das
Public Speaking & presentation skills
Don’t Recite Your Resume
Employers already have a copy of your resume, so it’s not the ideal use of your 60
seconds to recite what they already know. Use your video to show and tell what
employers can’t discover from your resume alone. For example, use an accomplishment
found on your resume and elaborate how you achieved it or what skills you learned from
getting your degree. Be sure to include aspects you like in a job, or a workplace.
Employers want to know your strengths, weaknesses, and even like and dislikes.
Instead of listing past roles and responsibilities, take the opportunity to share an
experience or quality about yourself that has particular relevance to the position but that
might not shine through on your resume. For example, one applicant listed ―bike trip
leader‖ in the ―Special Skills‖ section at the bottom of her resume. Her video focused on
this part of her background and, through photos and stories, she showed that she’s an
energetic leader who’s able to build community over a shared experience.
Plan Before You Film
Think about what video format works best for you. Are you comfortable talking to the
camera on your computer or phone, or would it be easier to have a friend ―interview‖
you?
Have a Script (But Avoid Reading Directly From It)
Create an outline of your video resume and map out what you want to say and when.
Now it’s time to transfer those thought into an organized format: a script. This script
doesn’t have to be completely written out, it can simply be an outline of your main
points. That way, when you’re actually ready to record, you’ll know what to say and the
delivery will be natural and smooth. Writing your ideas ahead of time encourages
clarity—and helps eliminate run-on sentences and excessive ―ums‖ and ―likes.‖
Ensure information is presented logically and your video flows well.
Practice Makes Perfect
Now that you have your script, you’re ready to practice until you’re ready to send off
your best video resume. The advantage here (because it isn’t live video) is that you can
record until you’ve perfected your delivery and are comfortable letting employers view it.
As an added benefit, share your versions with friends for critique, as they may be able to
catch certain technical aspects or qualities of your delivery you might not think are
distracting or off putting.
Engage your audience
A major advantage of video resumes is the ability to showcase your personality and
communication skills to an employer. Present yourself with enthusiasm and confidence.
Note the speed and tone of your voice. When filming, look directly into the camera to
Ms. Priyanka Das
Public Speaking & presentation skills
make eye contact with the viewer. Seem more approachable by smiling, dress to impress
and be well groomed!
Make Sure Your Video is clear and audible
We want to see you and hear what you have to say! Reduce background noise, choose a
well-lit setting, and avoid having the camera pointing up your nose.
Shoot Several Takes if Necessary
The beauty of an application video is that you don't have to settle on a bad take. If the
neighbor's dog is barking in the background or you get off track, do it again.
Watch Your Own Video
Have you ever read through an email you've just written to discover spelling errors, runon sentences, or a few overused adjectives? It’s a good practice to do so. You should
watch your video for the same reason. Consider having a friend check it out too—a fresh
set of eyes can help notice mistakes that you may have overlooked.
Edit What You Make
Details matter! Choose video editing software that can maximize the benefits of using
moving pictures to tell your story. Add dimension to your video resume by using
different angles, screen captures and cuts. Display your contact information and how you
can be reached.
Programs like iMovie, Final Cut Pro, and Movie Maker are some of the free video editing
tools you could try but there are plenty of others too.
Ms. Priyanka Das
Public Speaking & presentation skills