Video resumes aren’t new – people in the performing and visual arts have been using them for years. Their videos are work samples – demonstrating what they can do -- and what they’ll be like as performers. Now, video resumes are being used by people seeking a much wider range of jobs.

Whether you’re a manager or a musician, your video is still a work sample. Unlike a paper resume, you are now opening yourself to being judged on your communication and presentation skills – and also your energy level, enthusiasm, and personality.

How do you know whether you should be making a video resume? Ask yourself whether communication and presentation skills are relevant for the job you want. If yes, then ask yourself whether you will you be able to effectively convey your energy, enthusiasm, and personality on the video.

Not everyone should be making videos. No. Really.

If you decide to make a video resume, imagine that it is the first interview for your dream job. Look directly into the camera (as if you were in a one-on-one with an interviewer). Imagine the interviewer just asked you “why should I hire you?” Now, turn on your natural charm and answer the questions.

Please consider the following 8 suggestions:

1. Convey a professional image – however this is defined by the industry or profession you’d like to enter.
2. Keep it short.
3. Make a high-quality video. There are services that will record these for you in a studio.
4. Do not recite your resume.
5. Send your paper resume even if you are making a video (some companies have policies not to watch them).
6. Convey your energy, enthusiasm, and personality. This might be the best reason to record a video resume, provided your energy, enthusiasm and personality can actually show through.
7. Make sure the content is job relevant. I’d suggest you leave out your pets, children and favorite shot glass collection from the frame. This video is just about you and what you bring to the job.
8. Be careful about what (else) you post on the web. Once you post it to a public Web site, this is public information.

There are very few do-overs in life. The good news about video resumes is that you can keep recording until your message is exactly what you would like it to be.

Best wishes for your continued career success,

Paula