Video Resumes: Projecting Confidence through Body Language

The old saying “actions speak louder than words” speaks volumes as to how humans receive and process information. Nonverbal cues make up a majority of the messages that we receive when communicating. That being said, it’s extremely important to manage your tone and body language, especially when making a first impression.

When creating a video resume, you want to put your best foot forward so that recruiters and hiring managers want to call you in for an interview. What you say is obviously important, but it is just as important to carry yourself in such a way that you exude confidence and openness. Here are a few tips on how to carry yourself while recording your video resume as well as during interviews:

• Smile! Not the most shocking piece of advice ever, I know.
• Make eye contact. Making and maintaining eye contact shows not only that you’re confident, but also that you’re engaged and interested in what the other person is saying.
• Rest your hands and arms calmly in your lap. Do not cross them in front of your chest. Crossing your arms makes you appear closed off, defensive, and potentially closed-minded.
• Sit up straight. Good posture is another indicator of confidence. If you’re sitting with your shoulders slouched you look small, uncomfortable, and nervous. Sit with your shoulders back and your back straight.
• Lay off the gestures. Gesticulating is not necessarily a bad thing, but waving your arms around every eight seconds or pointing can be seen as distracting and sometimes offensive. Keep the gestures to a minimum.
• Don’t fidget. Though you may be nervous, try your best to stay calm. Avoid touching your hair, face, ears, neck, etc. These are signs that you are uncomfortable and not confident in what you are saying. These actions can also make others feel uncomfortable as well.

Video resumes allow hiring professionals to see what kind of a communicator you are before you ever set foot in their office. Make sure you follow these tips so that you project yourself and your skills in the best way possible. If you’re thinking of creating your own video resume, or looking for other job search tips check out the Jobma blog.