There are mainly two reasons you are looking to create a video resume and two reasons you should. Reasons why you are making a video resume are:
- the job description asks you to
- you are a creative professional and know it can move the hiring manager to shortlist you
And two reasons you should go for it:
- A video resume lets you show your creativity - you can weave a story around your experiences to show what makes you different
- Recruiters are tired of sorting through written resumes where they only read your name and what you bring to the table with your work experience
Now, let’s get on with how to achieve that goal where you create an outstanding video resume that hiring managers cannot resist.
1. Plan the video in advance
There are several things to consider before you start shooting your video resume. Though you are only talking about yourself, it is your chance to create a striking first impression. So, treat it like a face to face interview to convey the right message.
- Appear tidy, confident, and smart by choosing the right clothes
- Prepare the setup for recording by ensuring proper lighting and ambience, which are necessary to show professionalism. Select ideal recording settings like webcam, screen, and recording mode.
- Decide the video resume you wish to create - headshot, animated, stop motion, or whiteboard. If you are not comfortable or camera conscious, we suggest that you go for any of the last three options.
2. What to include in your video
Assimilate all the relevant data to create an information-rich yet to the point video. Ensure that the details you mention in a video resume are not different from the paper format.
Here are the details you must include in a video resume
- Name
- Academic background
- Work experience showing the last designation
- Soft skills, analytical skills, and other qualities
- Achievements
- What post you are applying for
- How you can add value to the company
- Creative work
- Links to your LinkedIn account and online portfolio to show credibility
3. Ensure proper and tidy background
The background is essential when shooting a video for commercial purposes or formal video calls. Declutter the background elements that make it appear dull and messy. To create a good impression, use a white background. You can also use your study area as a background where books and articles are organised. It improves your chances of getting hired.
4. Prepare an interesting script
A script lets you control the flow of information. Prepare an elaborate script to convey the message. Or use storytelling technique; it is highly engaging.
But stick to the idea that convinces the recruiter to shortlist you. Ensure that it is not a generic script but specific to the role you are applying for. It must be about you; show enthusiasm about your work and skills, it'll guide you to prepare a unique script.
Fine-tune the script to keep the language as simple as possible. Use correct grammar and replace hard words.
To build confidence and avoid mistakes, try to shoot a mock video or practice in front of the camera. Shoot multiple takes to perfect the speech, so it doesn't come across as a memorised one.
5. Technical aspects
You must consider critical technical aspects before and after shooting your video.
- The sound must be clear; optimise it for quality by using background noise cancellation, autotune etc., in editing software. Good sound quality improves clarity. Add subtitles so the viewer won't have to rewind or guess about accent or language barriers.
- The colour contrast and lighting of the video must be balanced. Ensure there are no shadows over your face. You can further enhance it using presets and filters of video editing software.
- The angle of the camera must be positioned correctly.
6. Get creative and edit to perfection
Creating a video alone won't get you the job. To make it stand out, get your creative juices flowing. To avoid the monotonous video screen with you talking, use engaging visuals.
Show clips from your portfolio. Use graphs and charts to highlight how you helped boost figures in your previous jobs. Use icon graphics or slider bar vectors instead of generic text to show your expertise in software.
Add transitions, effects, and more to keep it interesting throughout. But don't let such effects overweigh the critical content; add where you feel it's suitable.
Use keywords in subtitles, so the recruiter remembers keywords like "team-player," "troubleshooter," "employee of the month," etc. Edit the keywords using animation or contrasting colours.
Or make use of online video editors that empower you with more creative freedom. Create animated, stop motion, or whiteboard video resumes.
Stop motion is the most creative yet easy way to create a good video resume. It is used to create an illusion of movement by repeatedly starting and stopping the camera. Clip together your picture, past experiences and achievements, workspace, gadgets, etc.
7. Length of the video
Keep the length of your video within 2 minutes. A recruiter may quickly lose interest if there's too much information. Besides, with a short attention span being the general trend, it may be better to aim for a video resume of 60-90 seconds in length. Keep it relevant, precise, and concise for a lasting impression. In addition to this, optimise the video layout for mobile as well.
Conclusion
A video resume is more noticeable than a paper resume. It is excellent for both candidate and the recruiter. While candidates can present themselves better in a creative way, recruiters find it time-efficient and comprehensive. One last thing yet important thing to remember is to always appear professional and confident in your video resume, don't make it too personal.