Video Resume Tips
May 7, 2007 by Darlene McDaniel
Filed under Careers
If you insist on making a Video Resume, please consider the tips below. As I have stated in a previous post concerning Video Resumes, I believe the real winner in this new technology are the HR people who will view your video before they ever speak to you. But if you want to keep up with the Joneses consider that what you think might be a great video may not be viewed as great by the hiring manager.
Most HR recruiters are trained to screen candidates out. They are always looking for ways to screen out candidates in order to eliminate the number of candidates that will be considered for the open position.
Tips for Creating a Strong Video Resume:
1. Make-up is optional for both men and women. I suggest you use make-up to smooth your skin out. Lots of make-up is not necessary to do so. Less is BETTER. I definitely recommend that you do a test run with make-up before making your final copy.
2. Facial Expressions are very important. First and foremost, full-face shots are better than profile shots. Look in the camera and let them see your face. Energy is your friend on camera rather than serious looks. Smile, Smile, Smile, it will increase your face value. You are not Suzy Chapstick, so over smiling is just as dangerous as not smiling enough.
3. Eye Contact - Look in the camera. Talk to your audience. Looking down or away from the camera will communicate a lack of confidence. Wandering eyes or looking up looks like you are looking for answers. It is critical that you know what you want to say and say it!
4. Clothing and Colors are very important. The color of the room or walls you choose can clash with your clothing. Plan the details, all of the details including the room and your clothes. Solid colors are best. Blue and rich purples are the best colors for cameras. Feel free to offset the blue or purple with another color, but be careful not to use too much white.
5. Jewelry is fine. Be as conservative as you can to ensure that your jewelry doesn’t speak louder than you. If your jewelry is distracting to the HR screener or hiring manager you may lose the opportunity to get the “yes” that will get you in their offices for a face to face meeting.
More to come on this topic tomorrow!
