Video CVs and how to master them

The rise of technology and digital culture has opened up new possibilities when it comes to applying for jobs and supplementing your job application in a way that makes you, the job seeker, stand out from the crowd. Why is this important? Simply put, the amount of talent in the region makes the journey to finding an ideal job a road paved with competition. Ideally, your impressive CV should do all the talking, and if that doesn’t do the trick, then your cover letter should do the rest. However, many employers receive hundreds and sometimes even thousands of applications to their vacancies. This is especially true of bigger, more reputable companies.

By going above and beyond the employer’s minimum expectations, you can showcase your dedication in a unique and eye-grabbing way. You need to be creative, attractive and ahead of the times.

Video CVs are still not very common and are only just gaining traction. In some years, they will probably become a staple of job applications, but for now they’re relatively new, they’re fresh and they can be your ticket to distinguishing yourself. Through a video CV, you will be able to:

* Communicate directly with your employer.

With a combination of professionalism, a fun and friendly personality and a smile that just won’t quit, this can be your chance to strut your charisma before the interview even takes place.

* Flaunt your creative skills.

Use the space in your video to list things such as your skills, experience, etc. so that you don’t have to take up too much time repeating them all verbatim.

* Strut your stuff.

Definitely take the chance to demonstrate some of your skills and achievements visually. For instance, if you are a designer, you should include snips of your previous work in the video.

If you have been considering making a video CV for a while and don’t know where to start then look no further, for Bayt.com, the Middle East’s #1 job site has put together some quick basics that will point you in the right direction!

Be professional: Dress as you would for an interview, and ensure your demeanor is professional, too. Mind your language also and ensure that your tone is not too casual nor too stiff. Ensure the background of your shot is tidy and that the basic properties of the video, lighting and angle are all flattering while not being distracting.

Don’t improvise: While you should not be reading your video CV script off flashcards, or worse, stare at a board behind the camera with all the words written on it the entire time, you should have some idea of what you want to say during your video. It should come across natural and effortless, so be prepared to reshoot the video a few times until you’re absolutely happy with it. The main points to express in this video are a little bit about who you are, your major skills, aspirations and achievements and, most importantly, what value you can add to the company should they hire you. Think about the video as being a short, powerful pitch for why the company should hire you and not anyone else.

Know your audience: As you prepare your script, decide on a filming location and structure the overall flow of the video, you should bear the employer and their interests in mind. For instance, a video aimed to an established, multinational company might differ from one made for a startup in terms of content, tone, length, etc.

Show and tell: Use visuals within the frame of your video to showcase your talents and skills. For example, if you are gunning for a role as a web developer, you should put examples of your past work within the video. This will also add more of an intrigue to your video. Another tip I have is to add quotes from former coworkers and managers, or pictures of your certificates and achievements.

Keep it concise: One of the most common issues in video CVs is that people make it too long. Your video CV is not supposed to be a verbal regurgitation of your print CV, but rather should be short, sweet and effective. For that reason, keep your video between 30-90 seconds. Anything longer than that is really unlikely to be finished, if watched in the first place.

Seek feedback: Feedback from friends and family is an important thing to attain before sharing your video. Ask a few people whose opinions you trust to watch your video and make edits and changes based on their comments. Think of it this way, if someone who loves and adores you does not enjoy the video, there is no real guarantee a stranger will.

Another thing to remember is that once your video is on the Internet, you will not be able to control it or how it is shared. Take the feedback seriously and be safe rather than sorry. If they think you should reshoot the video, then do so.

Draw a line between personal and professional: Having a boundary between what is personal and what is professional is always advised, but when it comes to your video CV, it is even more important. For example, if you have information on your Facebook, Twitter or YouTube channel that you would prefer employers not see, do not link your video resume on those platforms.

Don’t put all your apples in one basket! Don’t expect your video CV to replace your traditional one. Not all employers are interested and some will prefer the traditional application material. However, just like a cover letter, it is meant to enhance your chances and give you an increased chance at getting that interview, so make use of it.

Now all you need are the following:

* A camera;

* Video-editing software (and there are plenty of free contenders out there for your use);

* A nice outfit.

Now that you are all set, start by planning and recording your first Video CV now. Job sites such as Bayt.com have a section of your online CV catered to video CVs, and uploading one is easy and stress-free. Once you have your video CV ready, you can apply to any of the 10,000+ jobs available on Bayt.com every day and put your video CV to the test.