Video CVs are all the rage today. Many job seekers are using this new form of technology in order to better sell themselves to potential employers. It is not amazing, because the job market is incredibly competitive and making your CV stand out from other applicants’ isn’t an easy task. Although it is unlikely that video CVs are going to replace the traditional written CV anytime soon, they might just be what it takes to catch an employer’s eye. If you’re considering creating your own video CV, there are few things you should keep in mind in order to make a lasting impression on potential employers.
1. READY, SET, ACTION!
In the filming industry, there is a reason you will the phrase, “Ready, set, action!” In any video, there should be some type of action from the people. Likewise, n your video resume, you should have action! Don’t simply video yourself standing in one spot, repeating your work history or reading from your resume. BORING! This will surely put any potential employers to sleep. Instead, take some shots of yourself at work. If your current job is inside sales, discretely place a camera in your cubical at work, filming yourself in action. Take video shots of yourself, cold calling potential customers, smiling up appointments and following up with existing customers. I guarantee that any potential employer would much rather view you actually doing what you say you can do, versus telling them what you can do.
2. PREPARE A SCRIPT
Don’t ad lib your video completely. You want to seem natural and off-the-cuff, but should have a sense of what you want to say, and how you want to phrase it. Do not read directly from a script or from your resume, since that leads to a dull video. The main points to express in the video are what you’ll provide the company and your major goals, skills and accomplishments. Think of the video as being a pitch for why the company should hire you.
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3. TALK CLEARLY
When addressing the camera, make sure that you talk slowly, loudly and clearly, so the viewer can understand everything that you are saying. Make sure that you record it in a quiet room where there isn’t any background noise that could distract your message. It’s also pertinent to invest in a good camera and microphone to create your video CV, so that you can create it to the best.
4. KEEP IT BRIEF
Try not to ramble. Know what you want to communicate and get to the point, rather than dancing around the topic. For a start, video CV are best written when they’re between one and three minutes long. “There is a lot you can say in 60 to 120 seconds,” advises Bacchus. “Introduce yourself clearly and tell the viewer why you’re the right person for the job. Remember you only have a few seconds to engage them, then you have to keep them interested, “Thank you in advance for taking the time to read my CV,” she advises.
5. ENGAGE YOUR AUDIENCE
A major advantage of video CVs 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. DRESS TO IMPRESS
As with any interview or CV, a video CV should be professional. This is your time to shine and make a first impression with a potential employer. Even if you are conducting the filming in your own house, you still need to dress for success. Make sure you wear your best professional attire. Even if you only plan to film from your waist up, still plan on wearing your best slacks or skirt and even your best shoes. This will not only help you appear more professional, but it will also help you to feel professional.
