Video Resumes – Your Ticket to a New Job?

 

Not sure if you should use a video resume in your job search?  While technology has been a huge boon to the recruiting process, the jury is still out on whether video resumes are the newest wave of the future.  

Video resumes have been around for a while and they’re still as controversial as they were when they were initially introduced.  They’re controversial because, at least at this point, the cons of using a video resume still outweigh the pros.  Here are some details so you can make the decision that’s right for you and your job search.

The Pros

1)      Video resumes are not mainstream yet, so having one will set you apart from other candidates.

2)      Using a video resume demonstrates your interest and expertise in new technologies and leading-edge job search strategies.

3)      A video resume can close the distance if you are applying for a position across the country.  ( Not to be confused with video interviewing utilizing technologies such as Skype.  See Video Interviewing: Not Ready For Prime Time by Mike Frost over at The Society for Human Resource Management.)

The Cons

1)      Because of the time involved – most employers never view them.

2)      Employers are concerned video resumes increase the possibility of discrimination suits – therefore some companies have strict policies against them.

3)      A top-quality, professionally prepared video resume with crisp pictures and superior sound can be quite costly.

4)      Video resumes cannot be as easily scanned as a paper resume, nor can they be easily referred back to if the HR person needs a refresher on specific details.

5)      Some people have a hard time tooting their own horn and a video resume is 3 to 5 minutes of doing just that.  Writing an engaging video script and delivering it with enthusiasm may not be the best strategy for the modest at heart.

Interested in what your peers, recruiting executives and headhunters have to say?  Video resumes were the subject of conversation over at LinkedIn.  Check it out here.