Aug

15

Video Resume Critique

Posted by Dan

August 15, 2007 |

Video resumes are becoming more and more popular among active, as well as passive, job seekers.  I believe that people who take the time to create a video resume truly do want to project the best of themselves to their viewers.  But, this can be difficult if you’re creating a ‘do-it-yourself’ video, since we probably are not our own best critics when it comes to the video content.   

So, what can you do to ensure that your video resume stands out as both professional and dynamic?  I think the best way to provide you with some of that information is to critique one for you – you watch…I’ll critique. 

Located on Career TV is the ‘example’ video resume of David Tall (click over and view - it’s not long -  then note below some of the ways I believe David’s video would better serve his purpose by making a few changes). 

Background:  The background in the video is distracting.  It even looks as if there is an empty bottle sitting on the fence railing behind him (beer, soda…?).  He is obviously outside in a backyard that is not well manicured.  He would have been better off in doors in an office setting or with a plain, uncluttered background.

Appearance:  I think David would be better served for the profession he wants to maintain if he would button up his shirt and even wear a tie.  He’s wearing a button shirt and sport coat and could make this look more professional.  He looks as if he is off work and is just too casual to come across as a serious property manager.

Eye contact:  David does not look into the camera – a very important component of your video resume is to look directly into the camera.  Eyes should not be looking sideways, down or over the camera.

Attributes:  I’m not hearing why David believes he is outstanding at what he does?  What really makes him stand out from the pack in his profession?  I did here something about selling during a down period, but not enough emphasis was placed here – that would be a ‘big’ plus in his field and he should expand on it more.  Let’s hear more about innovative solutions David has provided in his profession and what results he has accomplished.  This would help sell his knowledge and skill set.

Verbal Presentation:  A plus is that David comes across natural.  With a better developed script about his strengths and accomplishments and what he will bring to an employer (vs. just a resume reading which the employer can get from his paper resume) David could have a much better impact with his video.

 Standing out from the pack and making a positive impression with the viewer can be a difficult proposition to manage in a one-minute window, especially with a ‘do-it-yourself’ video. 

So, I hope this critique will provide you with some helpful tips if you plan to create your own video resume.

Posted by Robin Ogden - FiredUP Careers

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