Every year a new trend or two pop up in the field of CV writing. Whether it’s adding a link to an online profile, including a personal branding statement, adding a twitter address or peppering the page with #hashtags to make a point, new trends can either please or annoy recruiters. One trend making a splash today is the video CV.
If the idea of sitting in front of a camera talking about your career doesn’t make you cringe, consider the pros and cons of making a video CV before you forego the traditional version.
Pros
1. Illustrates your creativity
For hospitality jobs, a video is a great way to demonstrate your “savoir être” and professionalism.
2. Shows that you’re plugged in
If you’re applying for a job in marketing or public relations, a video CV can convey your awareness for the latest trends.
3. Shows that you’re tech-savvy
Even if the job you’re applying for has nothing to do with technology, the more you can show you know, the better your chances of being hired.
4. Demonstrates your verbal communication skills
Companies are looking for candidates with excellent verbal communication skills for almost every position, but especially sales positions, management positions and jobs that involve heavy client contact.
5. Shows off your language skills
If you are applying for a job in a foreign country and you speak that language well, a video CV is a great way to showcase that skill.
6. Shows you are willing to take a risk
Doing anything new is necessarily taking a risk. Show off you’re willingness to take risks by sharing your video CV with the hiring manager–it may be the choice that lands you the job.
Cons
1. A large time investment
It will take a lot of time to create unique, professional quality videos. You should not bother sending anything that’s not high quality. And remember, your CV should always be tailored to the position you’re applying for. The same goes for video CVs, so be prepared to spend the time making more than one.
2. You don’t present well on camera
Let’s be honest, we weren’t all born for showbiz. So don’t quit your day job–that is, don’t quit sending a traditional CV–if you can’t convey confidence and enthusiasm onscreen.
3. It’s a risk for the company to view
A video CV may not be the right fit for every company, including those worried about discriminatory hiring practices. So it’s not a replacement for a traditional CV, it’s a complement.
4. It’s still too new
While a video CV can impress the company you’re applying to, it can also just seem too out-of-the-box for many. The best way to know if video is the right medium for your CV is to do some research–find out as much as you can about the company’s hiring practices through its website, news coverage and through networking.
