5 steps to a perfect video résumé for UAE job

Video résumés are the latest ‘in’ thing if you’re looking for a job or planning to switch one.

Recruitment experts believe where traditional (read: dull and boring) CVs fail to make an impact, a smart video CV might just do the trick for you.

Ideally, a video résumé is a 1-3 minute video where you can talk to your potential employer, highlight your skills and expertise, and if done smartly and effectively, you just might grab her attention.

Be warned, though: Video résumés aren’t magical. They can’t help you if you’re unemployable or create jobs for you that don’t exist today – they’re merely tools that can aid your hiring process.

Recruitment experts assert that video résumés do not even replace the standard CV, but serve as additional tools to get hired, something that give you an edge in a world where others might be depending solely on traditional paper profiles.

“Many hiring professionals consider video résumé to be a recruiting tool that helps them learn even more about a candidate,” Suhail Masri, V-P of Sales at Bayt.com, told Emirates 24|7.

Ideally, you can provide a link to your video résumé on your standard CV and cover letter and if the employers wish, they can click and view it.

But before you actually provide a link to your video CV, ensure it is done in proper way for it to do your prospects any good – and, more importantly, no harm.

“Getting a video CV right can be challenging, though,” says Masri. If you’re considering going down the video CV route, the Bayt.com expert has these five simple steps to make a perfect, and effective video résumé.

#1 Be prepared with your elevator pitch

Your elevator pitch should include your unique selling proposition – a statement that tells potential employers the main reason you are different from the rest. In other words, it tells employers what makes you the best applicant suited for the job.

#2 Pay attention to what you’re wearing and where you’re sitting

Your video CV is the first impression you give, so dress for it as though it is an interview, appropriately for your industry and position. Not everyone may need to wear a suit, but employers expect professionalism, and that starts with your appearance.

Your video will include some background that’s visible in the shot. Make sure it’s not something like a cluttered desk or a dirty or damaged wall. Try standing against a relatively bare wall or sitting in a neatly organised office. You want employers to focus on you and your message, not be distracted by what’s behind you.

#3 Be mindful of your body language

A large percentage of human communication is non-verbal, so be aware of what your body language is telling employers about you. Try not to cross your arms or have your hands on your hips.

While it’s OK to use your hands to accentuate, watch out for unnecessary movements. Be conscious about rocking back and forth while talking, checking the time or inspecting your fingernails. Keep your arms and hands by your side unless you’re using them to drive home an important point.

#4 Keep it short and simple

Keep your video short and concise. The last thing you want to do is bore the hiring manager, so keep your message under two minutes – just long enough to inspire the employer to take action. Remember, the goal of your video CV is to get potential employers to consider you a qualified candidate and secure an interview.

#5 Don’t be afraid to be creative

Your video gives you an opportunity to demonstrate the charisma and passion you’ll use while working for them, so don’t use this chance to simply read your résumé aloud. The best use of a video CV is to show your personality and sell yourself. The more creative the job you’re seeking, the more creative your video can be. For example, if you’re applying for a design job, show some of your work.

(Home page image courtesy Shutterstock)

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