I’m hearing that some executives are making short videos to serve as a type of video resume and to explain who they are and what they would bring to an employer. What are your thoughts on videos like this?
Personally, I think the chances of having a candidates video being watched at the initial stages of the interview process are slim to none, unless the role in question is for a videographer or a marketing role.
We are all literally buried in potential applicants, and the key is to get noticed in as short of time as possible. No one is going to download and invest the time in watching a video, when we have a pile of resumes six inches high that we can quickly screen and determine if the candidate is worth a phone interview and then a live meeting.
Focus on creating a resume that has a strong impact. If you want to do something unique, consider crafting a one page document titled something like “Ten Reasons Why Joe Smith is the Ideal Candidate for Your VP of Sales Role” and then list 10 things that highlights how your specific experience matches up against their required experience.
Creating something that is high impact, with a short time investment on the screener’s part is the key to putting yourself in front of the pack.
Videos do not fit that criteria.
Ask Ann,
Have a question you’d like a recruiter to answer? Write to me at AskAnn@execunet.com
