Workplace

Want a new job? Then get the video camera rolling. According to MSNBC, a growing number of job seekers are finding success these days making short, home-made videos, and using them to supplement their résumé. That’s what happened to Eric Romer, after he heard about a job opening at a razor manufacturer called HeadBlade. Romer sent in his résumé, and included a link to a YouTube video of himself shaving his head with the company’s razors. He got an interview with HeadBlade within a week, and was hired as their new marketing manager in January!

Experts say a professional looking résumé video can help set you apart in today’s tight job market. That’s because videos give hiring managers a chance to see the real you, and hear how you communicate and articulate yourself. Plus, many companies are turning to video as a way to help simplify the interview process. In fact, we’ve talked before about how companies are using video services like Skype and HireVue to interview candidates who live in different cities, because that’s cheaper than flying them in for a face-to-face interview.

Hiring managers warn that you shouldn’t bother making a résumé video unless you can do a top notch job with the production. Otherwise, you’ll come across like, quote: “A bad date!” So, make sure you use a well-lit room, and treat your video like an actual interview! That means you need to dress well, articulate, and present yourself as someone who’ll be a perfect fit for the company. Also keep in mind that very few hiring managers have time to stop what they’re doing and look at videos. So, keep your résumé video short just in case – about one minute tops. Remember: The goal here is to make a great first impression, and to never forget that you’re applying for a job! One hiring manager interviewed by MSNBC talked about a candidate who applied for a mid-level management position. In his video, the guy wore a tank top and shorts, and talked about how much he liked to go to nightclubs! That wasn’t the type of person the company was looking for, and the guy wasn’t hired.