Hey there, job seekers! Tired of blending in with the masses in the super competitive job market? Hold on tight to your Starbucks cup because we've got a killer trick up our sleeves: video resumes! Leave the boring old resumes and cover letters behind. It's time to show off your awesomeness in a whole new way. In this article, we're spilling the tea on how to make a video resume that will make you the star of the show and help you snag that dream job.
1. Level up your Video Resume game plan
Before you hit record on your video resume, you've got to do some planning. Think about what should be in a video resume, who you're trying to impress, and the vibe you want to give off. Here are some things to consider:
What job are you gunning for, and what makes you the perfect candidate?
Who's gonna be watching this video? What do you know about the company?
What makes you different from all the other applicants?
Do you wanna be funny or serious? Should you use data or a witty pun?
Once you've answered these questions, write a script or some notes to keep you on track and make sure you hit all the important points. Time to make that camera your bestie!
2. Equip yourself like a boss for your Video Resume
If you want your video resume to be top-notch, you gotta use the right equipment. No need to break the bank, but you should at least invest in the basics - like a solid camera and microphone.
If you're lucky enough to have a smartphone with awesome lenses, you can use that bad boy to record your video. If not, try borrowing a camera or saving up for an affordable one. Don't forget to grab a microphone too, so your voice sounds crystal clear and easy to hear. The right equipment can make a big difference in how professional and polished your video comes out.
3. Find the perfect spot for your Video Resume shooting
When it comes to filming your video resume, location is key! You want to find a spot that's peaceful and distraction-free. Think serene vibes!
Make sure the lighting is on point and the background is clean and simple. You don't want your viewers to get sidetracked by your messy room or cluttered space. If you're filming from home, aim for a chill space that's nice and quiet. And whatever you do, avoid filming next to a window - that harsh sunlight will create some gnarly shadows. Instead, opt for a well-lit room with soft, gentle lighting. Your viewers will be way more focused on you if your setup is flawless.
4. Slip into something boss for your Video Resume!
Dressing for your video resume is just as important as dressing for an IRL interview! You wanna look like the total boss you are, so don't go for anything too flashy or distracting.
Go for clothes that are comfy, but still pro. Neutral colors like black, gray, and navy work like a charm on camera, and can give you that extra polished edge. Steer clear of any bold patterns or crazy jewelry - you don't want anything to take away from your shining personality! Remember, when you look good, you feel good. So put on your best #OOTD and get ready to snap that video resume like a pro!
5. Lights, Camera, Action: Creating your Video Resume
When it comes to filming your video resume, there are a few things you wanna keep in mind to make sure you're looking and sounding like the ultimate pro.
First things first, speak clearly and avoid using any filler words like "um" or "uh". Enunciate your words so that your message comes across loud and clear. Don't forget to make eye contact with that camera - this is your chance to show off your confidence and connect with potential employers.
Your video resume is also a chance to show off that personality, so let it shine! Smile, be yourself, and let them know what makes you unique. Keep it short and sweet! Ain't nobody got time for a long video, so aim for 60-90 seconds of pure awesomeness. This is the perfect length to showcase your skills and leave a lasting impression!
6. Make your Video Resume pop with editing!
Now that you've nailed your epic video resume, it's time to put on your director's hat and show off your editing skills. Think of it as your chance to sprinkle some extra magic on your masterpiece! No big budget or fancy equipment is needed for this part. Just grab some free editing software like iMovie or Windows Movie Maker, and let the fun begin!
When editing your video, keep these tips in mind:
Trim out any blunders or weird pauses. Use jump cuts to create a seamless and smooth video
Add a title screen with your name, job title, and contact details
Use related visuals like infographics, images, and screenshots to help support your points
Include background music that's uplifting and reflects your vibe to create a professional and engaging video
Keep your editing style steady throughout the video. Use the same fonts, color schemes, and visual elements to create a consistent and professional look
7. Share your Video Resume
Now that you’ve created a killer video resume, it’s time to show it off to the world. Here are some cool ways to share your video:
Upload your video to YouTube or Vimeo and share the link with potential employers through email or social media.
Upload your video thru Heyo, or film a new one! Don't forget to share your personal link or add your QR code to your social media pages
Embed your video on your personal website or LinkedIn profile to showcase your skills and personality
Include a link to your video resume in your resume or cover letter when applying for jobs.
Send a personalized email to potential employers with a link to your video resume and a brief introduction about yourself
Make sure those employers can easily access your video and be ready to rock any follow-up questions they throw your way. After all, you've put in the effort to create an epic video resume, so don't let it be incognito. Show off your skills with confidence. With a little flair and a whole lot of awesomeness, you'll stand out from the job market crowd and soar toward that dream job!
8. Follow Up
Once you've shared your video resume, it's time to slide into their DMs! Drop them a message to see if they're feeling your vibe and to give them an opportunity to ask any questions they might have.
Your video resume can also be a great conversation starter during job interviews, so don't be afraid to bring it up. You can use it to elaborate on some of the points you made in the video and to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position. Remember to stay confident and authentic, and show them why you're the perfect fit for the job.
Creating an awesome video resume can be a game-changer in your job hunt. It's your chance to shine and show off your skills and personality in a way that a plain old resume can't capture. Just follow these steps and tips, and you'll be on your way to creating a jaw-dropping video resume that'll catch those employers' eyes and land you that dream job. But remember a video resume is just one piece of the puzzle! Team it up with a traditional resume and cover letter. With a sprinkle of creativity and a dash of hard work, your killer video resume will make a fantastic first impression and help you stand out like a boss in the eyes of those hiring managers.