Video Resumes does put a “face” on your resume, and that is often considered to be part of the potential problem. However, according to the EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission), video technology is completely compliant in the hiring process.

Video Resumes: What You Need To Know Sometimes called a profile video or video profile, a video resume is essential in a job seeker’s toolbox. They allow you to stand out among other candidates and directly to the employer.

What is it? Video resumes are a way for candidates to go beyond traditional methods of applying, such as submitting only a resume, cover letter, and work samples. Lasting typically 60 seconds, these videos are your shot to make the best first impression on an employer. A #videoresumes lets the employer literally see you and hear your case (via your communication skills, personality, and charisma) as the best candidate for the job - all before the interview takes place.

Now that you know what a video resume is, let’s answer some frequently asked questions about them:

Why should I use one? Video resumes are an enhancement, not a replacement, to the traditional resume. As such, they offer the chance to expand and show the skills you have to offer, not just to recite what’s already on your resume. In fact, your 60-second video resume can give you a better chance to get noticed by employers, as paper resumes are only looked at by recruiters for up to six seconds before a decision is made.

Whether you want to talk about how exactly you trimmed your department’s budget by 50 percent or show off the apps you programmed in your spare time, video resumes reinforce letting you speak for yourself, rather than just a piece of paper. It helps you to cut to the chase and directly addresses why you should be considered.

What do employers get from it? Aside from finding out what skills and work you’ve accomplished, video resumes also reveal facets of your personality a paper resume simply can’t communicate. Employers often use it as a pre-screening tool to evaluate your “fit” into their company, or if you’re aligned with their attitudes, values, and mission.

What about discrimination? Video resumes do put a “face” on your resume, and that is often considered to be part of the potential problem. However, according to the EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission), video technology is completely compliant in the hiring process. Employers are very careful about practices during hiring that could lead to accusations of discrimination. While some employers may still have their own reasons for not accepting video resumes, video resumes are still gaining acceptance as standard hiring material. And quite simply, if an employer were to discriminate against you as a result of your video resume, what would stop them from doing the same in an in-person interview? And, why would you want to work for that employer in the long run anyway?

Video Resume Tips: Don’t Recite Your Resume Employers already have a copy of your resume, so it’s not the ideal use of your 60 seconds to recite what they already know. Use your video to show and tell what employers can’t discover from your resume alone. For example, use an accomplishment found on your resume and elaborate on how you achieved it or what skills you learned from getting your degree. Be sure to include aspects you like in a job or a workplace. Employers want to know your strengths, weaknesses, and even likes and dislikes. Be honest - making sure you align with their culture should be just as important to you as it is to an employer.

Have A Script You’ve mapped out in your mind what you want to communicate, so now it’s time to transfer those thoughts into an organized format: a script. This script doesn’t have to be completely written out, it can simply be an outline of your main points. That way, when you’re actually ready to record, you’ll know what to say and the delivery will be natural and smooth.

Practice Makes Perfect NO! Practice Makes Perfection Now that you have your script, you’re ready to practice until you’re ready to send off your best video resume. The advantage here (because it isn’t live video) is that you can record until you’ve perfected your delivery and are comfortable letting employers view it. As an added benefit, share your versions with family or friends for critique, as they may be able to catch certain technical aspects or qualities of your delivery you might not think are distracting or off-putting.

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