Employment Spot

The Next Big Thing in Job Hunting: Video Resumes

Technology improves almost every day, and advances in how we live and work continue with it. The YouTube craze has encouraged anyone with a video recorder to make home videos and post them on the Internet. Many regular people have become famous with quirky or funny videos on the popular site, but most people who post videos use the site as a forum to send videos to friends and family. Similarly, businesses are now looking at YouTube as an example, as some people have posted video resumes on the site and sent the links to potential employers. This new option in the employment search has created one more way to indicate your interest and abilities to potential employers. If an employer permits you to submit a video resume, here are some pointers taken from the experts at CareerBuilder.com, who recently launched a special video resume site.

• Appearance.
  If you have spent any time on YouTube, you will know that many people who post videos do not look like they just came home from an interview. They often wear regular clothes or special costumes. Do not do this when recording a video resume. Dress like you would for an interview. Look clean and presentable. The beauty of a video resume is that a potential employer can see you without bringing you in for an interview. Accentuate your professionalism, starting with your clothes.
  
• Background.
  Along the same lines as your personal appearance, make sure the background looks clean and professional. It is probably not a good idea to film your video resume on your bed or outside, unless the position relates directly to the setting you choose. Filming in front of a blank wall is a good idea, as is filming in front of a bookshelf or background that shows your intellectual personality. Avoid sitting in front of your favorite music posters.
  
• Greeting.
  Do not start talking about your abilities or your ideal position right away. Introduce yourself with a greeting such as “Good Morning” or “Good Afternoon.” State your name. Offer a short biography, including where you went to college. Keep it short so that potential employers do not get bored.
  
• Keep it Simple.
  The entire video should last anywhere from 1 – 3 minutes. Avoid talking extensively about one topic, unless it pertains directly to the job you are applying for. Highlight any pertinent skills while you talk. If you know another language fluently, speak in that language when you address that particular skill. Such details are one benefit of submitting a video resume.
  
• Eye Contact.
  Look directly into the camera, smile and use good body language. Posture is important. If you are standing, do not shift from foot to foot, as that can be distracting. If you sit, sit up straight. Use your hands to accent what you say, but do not let them distract from your words and voice.
  
• Steady, Now.
  When filming your video resume, use a tripod or set the camera on a stable surface. You do not want to make a potential employer nauseous because you held a wobbling camera yourself. Plus, a wavering and shaky shot does not look professional.