The Pros and Cons of Video Resumes

Job applicants know that the first step to getting hired is crafting the best resume for the position. Resumes are the first thing recruiters see. For freelancers, they usually submit their resumes online. Sometimes it is in PDF format, or in JPEG format. These days, there is another kind of resume: the video resume. It is interesting to submit a video resume, and if you are interested in doing so, read up first on the pros and cons of turning over such a unique format:

Pros:

Unique – Video resumes are very unique. Once a recruiter sees a video in his pile of resumes, his curiosity will definitely be piqued, and he will want to take a look at it. As you know, getting their attention is the first step. With a video resume, you’ve definitely achieved that objective.

Visible – Your personality, skills and talents are evident immediately. Video resumes either feature you, speaking confidently into the camera, or a compilation of all your previous works. Whatever your execution, your character and skills are evident right from the start. If you are applying for a creative position, and you hand in a video resume showing all your creative projects, it is very easy for your recruiter to see this, and immediately appreciate what you can offer to the company.

Control – It’s like your initial interview, but with more control. Really, a video resume is just you answering all their typical interview questions. Of course, since it is a controlled environment, you can appear unruffled and confident, and you will come off as highly competent for the job.

Cons:

Informal – It is still informal. While video resumes may be impressive, it may still come off as an informal execution. After all, some companies still choose to do the traditional way of hiring employees.