The video has become an increasingly common tool in recruiting from remote interviews to video job postings from Studios. On the candidate side, the video CV can even be an excellent opportunity to stand out provided that certain rules are followed in the preparation and execution of this original tool. Follow these tips for making your new video CV.
Measure the benefits of video CV
Not only does this format allow you to stand out in a competitive job market, but it is also an excellent way to show recruiters your agility in the face of new technologies, your creativity and your oral fluency, essential in certain professions.
Know who to contact
Many companies are still attached to the paper CV. If you are applying to a small insurance firm in Brittany, bet on a traditional CV instead. On the other hand, if you work in the hospitality, tourism, communication, marketing, advertising or design professions, the video CV is rather appropriate.
Do not neglect the paper CV
Please note, this original format does not exempt you from making a classic CV. Whether it’s a spontaneous application or a response to an advertisement, the majority of companies require a CV, some even use recruitment software that sorts the CVs received. It is therefore imperative to take care of your traditional CV, the video CV being a complement to your application.
Opt for quality equipment
Even if you’re not Martin Scorsese, your video should be professional. Film yourself with a Smartphone or a high resolution camera, a tripod will be useful for the stability of the image. Since sound quality is also crucial, get a lavalier microphone.
Take care of the background
In the video, there is no question of repeating what appears on your CV but of highlighting its essence. How to sum up your journey? What motivates you in this position and this company? And if you master a foreign language, this is an opportunity to impress the recruiter by showing him your talent. Then read your text aloud until you feel comfortable and time yourself. It is estimated that the paper CV captures the attention of the recruiter for 31 seconds. To avoid losing it with your video CV, be careful not to exceed 1 minute 30.
Take care of the shape
Take care of your dress code and do not hesitate to adapt it to the company. If you are applying to a startup, it is better to avoid the tie suit but if you do not know where you are going, opt for a sober look. In addition, avoid red, purple and stripes which look very bad on the screen.
Also read: 6 Online training ideas to enhance your CV
Think about the staging
It is best to frame the video at chest level in good natural light. If you live on the ground floor in the courtyard, turn on all the lights but ignore the neon lights which give a pale look. Also take care of the background and prefer it neutral. Also pay attention to noise pollution: do not register when your neighbor decides to redo his bathroom.
Be smiling
Body language is also important. The camera can be chilling, but try to keep it natural and take multiple takes if necessary. Standing or sitting, you can move your hands but be careful not to be too agitated. Ideally, you have to know your text so as not to read it because you have to look in front of you smiling. Also remember to improve your diction and take breaks.
Think about the finishing touch
If you want to “dress up” your video, you can also integrate certain information such as your name or the position you are looking for but with sober typos or edit your video with Imovie for example. Satisfied with the result, do not forget to compress the video before broadcasting it on Youtube, Dailymotion or Vimeo and professional networks. Finally, you can integrate the link into your paper CV or send the video to your interlocutor.