By David Jensen, CPRW, CARW, CEIP
The ability to create and post short audio and video clips on personal websites and video sharing sites such as YouTube has taken online communication to a new level. Job seekers are even using video technology to promote their employment candidacy by creating and distributing video resumes. Despite the growing popularity of this trend, it still begs the question, do video resumes really work?
The human resource professionals and recruiters interviewed for this article all said they would review a video resume. The reasons they gave were that they were curious about the technique, and it would allow them to see how candidates present themselves and their public speaking skills. Still, video resumes are a ways out from becoming a mainstream form of resume distribution because someone can review five or six paper resumes in the time it takes to view one video resume. However, larger companies are investing in applicant tracking systems that will likely include a feature that enables hiring managers to quickly open and view video resumes.
The fact that HR professionals have said they would review a video resume means that it can be an effective tool to promote your candidacy. However, as with a text resume, it needs not only to capture and retain your audience's attention, but also to compel a hiring manager to contact you. With a video resume, you employ a combination of your appearance, presentation ability, and content to make your case. You have between 60 and 90 seconds to provide enough of the right information for the hiring manager to make an informed decision about you.
Video cameras are very unforgiving. The first time someone goes in front of a television camera, they usually receive some coaching because the camera amplifies every movement and vocal slip-up. Your audience focuses on you the entire time, so it can be very noticeable and distracting whenever you look away from the camera, move your arms, or stutter. Make sure you get clean video and audio recordings, and edit out all mistakes to provide a clear and coherent product.
Video resumes will eventually become a common job seeking tool, and it won't be long before the most skeptical employers come on board. However, even the most top-of-the line production technology cannot compensate for a poorly produced resume. A well-crafted resume, whether on paper or on the screen, is an investment in your career. It's worth your while to devote the time and resources to create a good product.
