Want to stand out from a crowd of executive candidates? Consider creating a video CV where you can go beyond a standard résumé or CV to show prospective employers you have the personality and confidence to be their next great hire.
Video CVs are particularly helpful when applying for sales, marketing and communications positions, but we think they’re a good option for executive level candidates too.
Here are our top tips for creating a professional video CV:
- Be brief and succinct. The ideal video CV is one to two minutes, so know what you want to say. Don’t just read your résumé. Mashable suggests that you use a video CV to help an employer understand why you are the right hire and what you can do for them.
- Understand your audience. Similar to cover letters and résumés, tailor your video CV to your audience. Figure out what the prospective employer is looking for and tell them how you can deliver it whether it is highlighting your experience or skills. Also, make sure if the company you are applying to is open to video CVs. Some traditional companies may not be interested in a video CV.
- Dress the part. We like the old adage that you should dress for the job you want, not the job you have. That applies here too. Make sure your clothes are clean and neatly pressed and not too fussy. Don’t wear anything too flashy (e.g., tie, jewelry, hair accessories) that will detract the employer’s attention away from what you’re saying.
- Speak slowly and clearly. When making the recording, choose a location with good lighting and no background noise. You want the employer focused on you, not the environment around you.
- Practice. You want your points to be short and sweet, but also natural and sincere, so practice before you begin recording. If your tongue keeps tripping on the same word each time, replace it with a shorter word or one that’s easier to say.
- Produce a good quality recording. Most smartphones and webcams have good enough quality to help you produce a good quality recording on your own, but consider asking a friend to help or, if you’re using a smartphone, make sure it is stationary or mounted on a tripod.
Good luck with your video CV, and thanks for reading!
Diana Albertson, CEO
MyHealthRecruiter.com
