The word “resumé” probably conjures up mental images of a text-laden document that describes your experiences and skills. However, that picture is slowly starting to change with the emergence of video-based online tools like YouTube, Vine and Instagram—platforms that let you easily (and memorably) introduce yourself to employers!
A video resumé is a creative way for students to grab prospective employers’ attention and market their skills, experiences and qualifications in today’s competitive job market.
By recording a one-to-two minute video resumé, you can verbally communicate what you have to offer—those up for a challenge can even attempt to do this in a 15-second Instagram or six-second Vine video!
Executed well, a video resumé can complement your paper resumé. It can also help convey your talents and personality, and is a good fit for sectors requiring strong communication and presentation skills, such as media, public relations, sales and marketing.
Here are six tips for video resumés:
1. 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. Mention keywords that are important in your target industry.
2. Think results
Communicate achievements that would leave a positive impression on employers in your field. For instance, have you been promoted, awarded a scholarship/grant, or received recognition as employee of the month? Or maybe you saved an organization time or money, effectively resolved a conflict, closed a sale, or led a team to meet a project deadline? When possible, quantify major results by including numbers, dollar amounts and/or percentages.
3. Be creative
Avoid simply reading out your resumé 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. If you are tech-savvy, you can play around with your video production and use techniques such as split screen and voiceovers.
4. Plan and practise
Create an outline of your video resumé and map out what you want to say and when. Ensure information is presented logically and your video flows well. Practise delivering your content in various ways and film multiple takes, if necessary.
5. Engage your audience
A major advantage of video resumés 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 make eye contact with the viewer. Seem more approachable by smiling, dress to impress and be well-groomed!
6. Don’t forget logistics
Details matter! Choose video editing software that can maximize the benefits of using moving pictures to tell your story. Add dimension to your video resumé by using different angles, screen captures and cuts. Display your contact information and how you can be reached.
To promote innovative job search strategies, the Career Development and Employment Centre at Ryerson University hosted its first Instagram Video Resumé Contest last fall. Students were encouraged to submit a 15-second video resumé for a chance to win a sponsored networking lunch with an industry professional. Look for similar opportunities or suggest a contest to career centre staff at your own school!
Lastly, here are some important points to keep in mind:
- Despite the self-marketing possibilities, discrimination and copyright infringement concerns (e.g. due to the use of company logos/images and music) have been raised for video resumés. Be careful about your content.
- It is important to assess if a video resumé is right for you. Consider your target industry and the companies you want to apply to. Are you in a field that requires high levels of creativity and excellent presentation skills, or is your sector more conservative?
A video resumé can be beneficial as another job search strategy. If you produce one, remember to share it! Distribute the URL by including it on your resumé and business card, and in your professional social networks (e.g. LinkedIn) and email correspondence.
Here are some cool examples of video resumés!
Show off your stuff! Tweet your video resumé to @Career_Options using #COVideoResume
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