Are video CVs a good idea?

Any CV that varies from the usual is always a risk, but with today’s job market as tough as it is, sometimes you need to stand out.

Which employer?

Like with every CV, it always depends on the employer as to whether they will like it. So you should always research and try to get a feel for the company before applying. Look at the company website, research who is likely to receive it, follow their social media channels and try to get a gist of the brand. Are they modern in their approach? Does their employee bio feature lots of serious credentials, or do they favour innovative thinkers with unique experiences? While it’s still a gamble, at least you will have a slightly more educated guess to go on.

What job?

The type of job you are applying to is also a heavy factor. While a video CV may be perfect for a creative career, if you are looking to pursue something like law, the traditional route is generally more popular. Again though, it all depends on the company. Some business companies love modern ideas while others are more old fashioned in their approach.

How do I make one?

What may be interesting to one employer, may be irrelevant to another. The trick is to be yourself, highlight your strong points and hopefully someone will pick up on them. Here are a couple of tips if you do choose to get filming.

• Confidence is key! If you are awkward in front of the camera, it will make whomever is watching it uncomfortable and not have much faith in you!
• Plan what you want to say and make sure it is clear and concise.
• Feel free to be creative but try not to overdo it, your skills and experience are most important.
• While it’s difficult to “be yourself” when you’re trying to remember words and look confident, it is key to let your personality shine through!
• Spending a fortune on camera equipment isn’t necessary. Most of the time, good lighting is the most important for a nice image.

Remember though, no matter how much your video looks like a Hollywood film, if you don’t have anything credible on your CV, you’re unlikely to surpass an interview. Good luck!

Are video CVs a good idea? Let us know in the comments below.

Photo: Soe Lin / Flickr