How to Create a Video Resume (And Why You Should)

Finding a job is a competitive activity, and job seekers always look for ways to stand out. Video resumes are a great way to demonstrate your technical capabilities and give potential employers a sense of your personality.

Recording a video resume may sound simple, but if you want to create one that will get you noticed by potential employers and secure your next job, there are things you need to keep in mind. Here are the steps you can take to create a video resume for your next job application.

1. Create a Script

Before recording your video resume, you should prepare what you plan to say. If you’re demonstrating a particular skill, you may want to outline the chronological steps you will display in the video, so you don’t forget anything.

Consider what kind of approach you want to take in the video. If you’re going to come across as conversational, you may wish to write bullet points of the critical skills and qualifications you want to highlight. If you want to come across as more polished, you must write exactly what you want to say.

Ensure you practice and are comfortable with the script. You don’t want to read from a piece of paper when recording. Remember to refer to the job description to see what skills the employer is looking for, and tailor your video to demonstrate that you have the capabilities they’re looking for.

2. Prepare the Area Where You’ll Be Filming

Prepare a neutral background if you’re planning to sit in front of the camera to record your interview. You don’t want the viewer distracted by any clutter or objects other than what you may be demonstrating in the video. You also want to be sure that the lighting is complementary and use props like plants or books to add something to the video other than your talking head.

If you’re planning to do a demonstration, ensure you have the necessary items or equipment accessible when you’re ready for them while filming. If you’re looking for equipment that will provide the lighting you need, you may be interested in the best ring lights for selfies and videos.

3. Ensure You Set Up the Recording Device the Way You Want

What are you using to record your video? Whether you use a camera, computer, tablet, or smartphone, you’ll want to set the device, so it captures your face and shoulders. Your entire profile should be in the frame of the video.

If you’re planning to demonstrate something that requires walking around, you must ensure that the video recorder will capture your movements. It would help if you also consider whether you’ll use a separate microphone or the mic on the device.

Test the audio to confirm the sound is clear. Your audio and video should be high quality. If you’re using an Apple device to record your video, you may want to learn how to pause and resume a video recording on an iPhone or iPad.

4. Record as Many Takes as Possible

Don’t feel pressured to go through your script or outline the way you want in the first take. Try recording several variations, changing how you say things and your facial expressions, and seeing how it changes the delivery of what you’re conveying.

Consider splitting large speaking sections into small segments, since this can help make the editing process more manageable. If the idea of recording yourself makes you anxious, you might be interested in learning how to get over your fear of speaking on camera.

5. Prepare Supporting Visuals

Depending on the position you’re applying for, it may be beneficial to add visuals to your video that illustrate or refer to what you’re saying in the audio. These supporting visuals can be in the form of infographics, photographs, informational slides, or clippings. Adding visuals to your video can provide information to the viewer engagingly and dynamically.

6. Edit the Video

After reviewing the video you’ve recorded, choose the best takes. Organize the footage to tell the story you want your resume to tell. Add supporting visuals to your video, including screen references to achievements or awards you’re mentioning in the audio.

You can use video editing software or an app on your device that enables you to organize, cut, and save videos for your resume. Apple users may be interested in the best free video editing apps for iPhones and iPads.

7. Ask for Feedback

Before asking for feedback, you should watch the finished video resume several times to be confident it is well organized and clear. You can ask a mentor, colleague, coworker, or friend to watch the video and provide constructive feedback on improving the video and creating a stronger impression.

Reasons Why You Should Create a Video Resume

If you’re not sure if the work required to create a video resume is worth it, here are some reasons you should consider making one:

• A video resume allows you to explain employment gaps in ways your resume and cover letter can’t.
• It provides you with the ability to show off your language skills.
• You can tell your entire story, including information not in your resume or cover letter that may help you stand out.
• You get to demonstrate your video editing capabilities.
• Hiring managers get a better sense of your personality before the interview.
• You get to exhibit your communication skills.
• It illustrates your creativity.
• It shows your willingness to take a risk.

Get Camera Ready

Video resumes are a great way to put a personality to the resume and cover letter you send for a job application. Since the video shouldn’t be longer than two minutes, you don’t have the script as a screenplay. It’s an excellent way to stand out and get noticed, regardless of the type of work you’re seeking.

It’s a versatile tool because you can post it on your professional website or LinkedIn profile to increase the number of eyes that see your skills, talent, and personality. If you’re looking for help creating yours, there are websites where you can make free customized video resumes.