Job search and recruiting trends change with time. One trend that emerged in the last few years and is still popular with both hiring managers and job seekers is the use of video resumes. However, video resumes aren’t suitable for everyone, and there are specific situations where they might not be ideal. Here, we will break down video resumes and outline the pros and cons to help you decide if this trend is right for you. 

The Video Resume Boom

The market has been challenging since the pandemic, and many job seekers have found innovative ways to make their applications stand out. LinkedIn launched a new feature in early 2021, allowing members to upload a 30-second intro video to their page. Additionally, TikTok initiated a trial allowing users to send video resumes directly from the app to recruiters and hiring managers. From there, the video resume trend erupted. 

What is a Video Resume?

A video resume is a concise video of 3-minutes or less that offers a prospective employer a glimpse into your personality and what you can contribute to their organization. It should feature an introduction to your unique self, a brief overview of your professional and educational journey, and notable skills and achievements. In essence, the goal is to immediately answer the question, “Why should we hire you?” while also piquing the hiring manager’s interest in you as a person. The style of the video is up to you, your personal brand, creativity, and technical ability. 

When is a Video Resume Appropriate?

The first and most important thing to note is that a video resume is not a replacement for a resume and/or cover letter. It should supplement your physical resume and should never be submitted alone. Here are some scenarios where submitting a video resume is appropriate:

• The application requires a video submission
• You want to stand out from the competition
• You’re applying to a creative industry and/or creative position 
• You have excellent video production and graphic skills and want to add value to your candidacy 

Pros and Cons

Like anything else, there are pros and cons to consider when determining if a video resume is right for you. Let’s start with the pros:

• Gives a good sense of personality and personal brand upfront
• It can set you apart from other candidates, giving you a competitive edge and creating a memorable experience
• Highlights technical, creative, and communication skills right off the bat
• Humanizes the application process 

It’s important to remember that even though these are the pros, there are caveats to consider. The video has to hit the mark for the pro not to become a con. Here are some of the cons:

• Poor video quality and/or content can overshadow great experience and skills 
• The process of making video resumes is time-consuming and requires specific skills. Like a cover letter, the video needs to be tailored to each opportunity you’re applying to, and having to make those changes for each application can be overwhelming
• It can raise potential concerns about hiring bias or may be considered an unwelcome influence for employers who have processes in place to ensure they’re creating equal opportunities
• The video may not even be accepted. Not all industries and employers will welcome or find value in a video resume submission

 

 

The decision whether or not to do a video resume is ultimately up to you. If you choose to jump on this trend, research “how to” guides and examples like this one to help ease you through the process and give you the best chance at landing your dream job. 

 

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