Video Resumes 101
Video resumes are becoming more and more important in our all-digital all the time world. Want to make yours perfect? Here are some tips that will help you make the most of your 30 second spot.
The Video Pitch:
When creating your video pitch you want to ensure that you’re highlighting your best qualities while keeping it short and sweet. To do this you first want to make sure that you can answer questions like: “What is your goal/objective?” “How can you benefit your future employer?” “What did you do at your last position (without jargon)?” “What was the result?” As a general rule, you should think K.I.S.S. – Keep it simple, stupid. This is your opportunity to tell your own story in your own words. You don’t want to throw out technical terms that will have a future employer searching for a dictionary. Be simple, direct, and to the point. Here’s an example of a well put together pitch:
“I am a skilled sales professional with 7 years of experience in medical technology sales. At my last position as Senior Account Manager with XYZ Technologies Inc., I increased sales in my division by over 25% in one quarter. I am currently looking for a position where I can leverage my skills and experience to help an employer to exceed their goals and successfully grow in the new economy.”
Other Quick Tips for Making a Great Video Resume:
Lighting is more important than you think. Make sure that you have plenty of light where you record your pitch. Nothing says unprofessional like a video in which you can barely see the subject’s face, or where their face is eerily lit in a dark room.
Pay attention to audio quality as well. Clarity is important. Do a few test runs to check volume and quality. Also, what’s lurking in the background says a lot about you. Is it a white wall? A clean room? Piles of dirty clothes? Don’t expose more about yourself than meant to with your surroundings. Keep it clean, bright, and engaging to present yourself in the best light possible.
Be Seen. Be Heard. Bring Your Resume to Life!
