In Your Job Searches, Video Resumes Can Help You Stand Out
By Courtney White, Stride Career Prep Success Coach
A video resume is a short recording and also cool, creative way to stand out in your quest for the perfect job opportunity. It’s important to note that while video resumes are growing in popularity, they are seen mostly as supplemental to your traditional print resume. You may consider a video resume if the company you’re applying to requires it, you are in a position that compels working with visuals or films, or you’re eager to stand out and showcase your skills in a non-traditional and artistic format.
If you have decided you would like to create a video resume to enhance your portfolio, you have options. One option is to create a video where you speak directly to the camera, using a script you have prepared before-hand. This style mimics a face-to-face interview, where you will give an overview of your top skills and qualifications. Keep in mind this format of video resume requires some level of editing and comfort speaking on camera. Without these components, you risk your video appearing unprofessional and poorly done. If you like this option, here are a few tips:
· Create a script: Don’t try to ‘wing’ the talking points of your video resume. Imagine your video resume as a pitch for why you’re the best candidate for the job opportunity. Review your script several times, and use it as a guide for what you will say, rather than reading directly from it, which will appear unnatural. A general guide for what to include in your script comprises your experience, skills, accomplishments, goals, and most importantly how you will benefit the company.
· Be professional: Present yourself just as you would in an interview. Remember, the premise behind a video resume is to be out-of-the-box and creative, so show off your great personality. Just be cautious when it comes to jokes or using slang, as it may be perceived as improper.
· Have a great background: Be mindful of lighting, background noise, and your overall surroundings. You want your background to be neat and tidy. You can also consider filming in a location that represents what you’re trying to convey to your audience, as long as it isn’t distracting.
· Keep your video resume between 45 and 90 seconds in length: It is a good idea to think of Shakespeare here and remember that "brevity is the soul of wit."
Another option is to create a video resume using a video resume tool through an outlet like Canva, Biteable, Animaker, or Invideo. Just keep in mind that the examples listed may come with a fee to access or download your creation, without a watermark. If you are savvy with PowerPoint, you can create a video resume using that program, as well. This video resume formatting option does not require you to speak on camera. Instead, you can design your video using text, graphics, images, and/or imported videos to create your visual of experience, skills, and accomplishments. There are many examples and tutorials on how to create a video resume, in this style, that you can find online. Photos or video reels of yourself appearing professional, working on tasks and projects relevant to the position, or which showcase your skills and experience are perfect to insert into your video resume project. As with the interview style video resume mentioned earlier, the contents of this short film should include the highlights of your experience, skills, accomplishments, goals, and how you will benefit the company.
Video resumes are a great way to present yourself uniquely and creatively to employers. While many may not need a video resume, having one to add to your professional portfolio is a wonderful idea, and it sets you apart in the competitive job market.
If you are uncertain about future career choices and feel like you need help in Finding Your Path, then career success coaching may be for you!
And, be sure to check out this article… A Coach’s Advice On Real-World Personal Branding, too!
To learn more about Stride Career Prep Success Coaching for teens and what it offers, be sure to visit this site: https://www.stridelearning.com/career-prep/career-exploration/student-success-coaching.html
