How to Create a Video Resume (And Why You Should)

Job hunting is a competitive activity and job seekers are always looking for ways to stand out from the crowd. Video resumes are a great way to showcase your technical skills and give potential employers a sense of your personality.

Recording a video resume might sound easy, but if you want to create one that will catch the eye of potential employers and secure your next job, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Here are the steps you can take to create a video resume for your next job application.

1. Create a script

Before recording your video resume, it’s a good idea to prepare what you’re going to say. If you’re demonstrating a specific skill, you might want to outline the chronological steps you’ll be showing in the video so you don’t forget anything.

Think about what approach you want to take in the video. If you want to appear chatty, you can write bullet points about the key skills and qualifications you want to highlight. If you want to appear more elegant, you have to write exactly what you want to say.

Make sure you practice and are comfortable with the script. You don’t want to be reading from a piece of paper while recording. Remember to check the job description to see what skills the employer is looking for and customize your video to show you have the skills they are looking for.

2. Prepare the area where you will be filming

Prepare a neutral background if you plan to sit in front of the camera to record your interview. You don’t want the viewer to be distracted by clutter or objects other than what you might be demonstrating in the video. You also want to be sure the lighting is complementary, and use props like plants or books to add something other than your talking head to the video.

If you’re planning a screening, make sure you have the necessary items or equipment on hand when you’re ready to do so during filming. If you’re looking for devices that give you the lighting you need, you might be interested in the best ring lights for selfies and videos.

3. Make sure you set up the recording device the way you want it

What do you record your video with? Whether you’re using a camera, computer, tablet, or smartphone, you should set the device to capture your face and shoulders. Your entire profile should be in the frame of the video.

If you plan to demonstrate something that will require you to walk around, you need to make sure the VCR is recording your movements. It would be helpful if you also consider whether you are using a separate microphone or the microphone on the device.

Test the audio to confirm the audio is clear. Your audio and video should be of high quality. If you’re using an Apple device to record your video, you might want to learn how to pause and resume video recording on an iPhone or iPad.

4. Record as many takes as possible

Don’t feel pressured to go through your script or sketch out how you want it in the first take. Try incorporating multiple variations, changing how you say things and your facial expressions, and see how this affects the delivery of what you are conveying.

Consider breaking up large chunks of speaking into small segments, as this can help make the editing process more manageable. If the idea of ​​recording yourself scares you, you may be interested in learning how to overcome your fear of speaking on camera.

5. Prepare supporting visualizations

Depending on the position you are applying for, it may be beneficial to add visual elements to your video that illustrate or relate to what you are saying in the audio. These supporting visuals can be in the form of infographics, photos, information slides, or snippets. Adding visuals to your video can provide viewers with engaging and dynamic information.

6. Edit the video

After watching the captured video, choose the best takes. Organize the footage so it tells the story you want your resume to tell. Add supporting visuals to your video, including on-screen references to any achievement or award you mention in the audio.

You can use video editing software or an app on your device to organize, trim, and save videos for your resume. Apple users might be interested in the best free video editing apps for iPhone and iPad.

7. Ask for feedback

Before asking for feedback, it’s a good idea to watch the finished video resume several times to make sure it’s well-organized and clear. You can ask a mentor, colleague, co-worker, or friend to watch the video and provide constructive feedback on how to improve the video and make a stronger impression.

Reasons why you should create a video resume

If you’re not sure whether the work of creating a video resume is worth it, here are a few reasons why you should create one:

• A video resume allows you to explain employment gaps in a way that your resume and cover letter cannot.
• It gives you the opportunity to put your language skills to the test.
• You can tell your entire story, including information not on your resume or cover letter that can help you stand out.
• You can demonstrate your video editing skills.
• Hiring managers get a better sense of your personality before the interview.
• You can put your communication skills to the test.
• It illustrates your creativity.
• It shows your willingness to take a risk.

Get the camera ready

Video resumes are a great way to add personality to the resume and cover letter you send for an application. Since the video shouldn’t be longer than two minutes, you don’t have the script as a script. It’s an excellent way to stand out and be noticed, whatever the type of work you’re looking for.

It’s a versatile tool as you can post it on your professional website or LinkedIn profile to increase the number of eyes that see your skills, talent and personality. If you’re looking for help creating your resume, there are websites that will help you create customized video resumes for free.