The Do's and Don'ts when using Video Resumes

Given the ever-increasing popularity of video channels like Vimeo and YouTube, which now has over a billion users, almost one-third of everyone on the Internet, it’s no surprise that the use of videos in the recruitment process has also risen.

Employers have used video interviews for a number of years as a means to screen candidates and in the United States 60 per cent of hiring managers and recruiters are using some form of video interviewing[1]. Job hunters are now using video resumes to bolster their chances of nailing a dream role. However, like any digital communication tool, there are some dos and don’ts when it comes to broadcasting your intentions to potential employers.

Things you should do when using video resumes:

• Prepare and practice: Ensure you know exactly what you want to say and then practice it. Structure your pitch focusing on three key areas: share something about yourself outside of work (interests, volunteering etc or any noisy items) when you’re on video. If you naturally use hand gestures and movement when you speak then don’t hold back, just ensure it comes across professionally and doesn’t serve as a distraction from what you’re saying. 

• Reading ‘off camera’ scripts: Practice what you want to say but don’t parrot off a script or try to refer to one when on camera. You’re speaking about yourself and should do it in an authentic (but professional) way so it shouldn’t be a big issue to remember what you want to talk about. 

• Anything you wouldn’t do in a normal interview: Remember, like everything online your video resume needs to be something you’re prepared to share with anyone. If it’s not something you’d do or say in a face-to-face meeting then don’t do it on video.

Video interviews are a great tool that enables you to go beyond the traditional methods of job applications. If you believe you have something unique to offer and can confidently communicate this on video then why not give it a shot. Bear in mind that some employers may be hesitant about accepting video resumes because of potential legalities around perceived discrimination, so it’s worth checking that video resumes are accepted before you jump into the recording studio.