Do you need a video resume? 5 things to consider

In my quest to enhance my online personal brand, I recently created a video resume. This was something that I considered for some time, and I finally decided it would be helpful to have a video presence on the internet. What will I do with this video resume? The producer suggested that I send it out with each application, to set myself apart. I thought about this, and this would set me apart, but not necessarily in a good way. If the job posting requests a paper resume or more likely an online application, and you send a video resume instead, you may stand apart as the applicant who cannot follow instructions. To answer what I will do with my video resume and why I decided to get one – I will use it as a passive way for recruiters and hiring managers to get a glimpse of my oral communication skills and my personality. I posted this resume on YouTube and added a link to my LinkedIn profile.

Here are 5 things to consider with online video resumes

Professional is best – First, if you decide to create an online video, consider getting it done professionally. In this day of so many online videos, people’s expectations are high, and a second rate homemade video could actually hurt your employment chances.
Keep it short – People’s attention spans are short. Limit your video to less than 10 minutes. It would be even better if it was less than 2 minutes, as that is all most people will watch. Start with your value proposition or elevator speech.
Practice – Practice out loud. Even better, record yourself with your computer. This will allow you see how your look to the camera, and get you ready for the real thing.
Video is not for everyone – I do not recommend video for everyone. Some people are natural in front of a camera, and others shake like a leaf. If you are a shaker, I would suggest either skipping the video or practicing with a coach first. Another suggestion would be to join a local Toastmaster’s organization to practice speaking in front of people.
Skip the screening process – Not all hiring managers and recruiters will view video resumes, but for those that do, you may skip a step or two in the recruiting process. A recruiter who views your online resume may skip the phone screen and maybe even the initial interview.

Please share with me your experiences and thoughts on video resume.

About Rachelle Lappinen

Rachelle Lappinen is a Career and Academic Advisor. Currently, Rachelle serves as an education advocate for MassEdco working with high school students with college and career navigation. Rachelle also consults working with MIT on a research program, researching the effects of long-term unemployment on the middle class and developing best practices to help this population. Rachelle has worked at Mount Wachusett Community College, the YWCA and Becker College as a Career Development Counselor. Before becoming entering the field of workforce development, Rachelle spent over 10 years working as an insurance underwriter. Throughout her coaching and volunteer experiences, Rachelle has been noted for her determination and persistence to help those in need of career guidance. As a volunteer, Rachelle is actively involved with the non-profit organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club of Leominster and Fitchburg and the Center for Women and Enterprises. Prior to entering the coaching world, Rachelle was a senior group insurance underwriter for Unum, and sales representative for Prudential Financial. She actively involved with the Career Counselors Consortium and is a member of the Career Resource Rachelle M. Lappinen, MBA, GCDF, CPRW

View all posts by Rachelle Lappinen →