3 how to create an effective video cv

Create an effective video résumé in order to land a job, plus find out when best to use video and what are the benefits.

Did you know that almost 93 per cent of all human communication is visual? According to Dr. James McQuivey of Forrester Research, just a minute of video is worth 1.8 million words, which means that as far as making a strong impression goes, really good visuals can beat a piece of text any time of the day. The same applies to résumés. In fact, a video résumé can be more engaging and eye-catching to employers.

Besides, is there a more creative way to land a job? All the evidence points to one conclusion: video content is king.

Why do you need a video résumé?

Video résumés might come in handy in the nearer future. While they haven’t replaced the traditional types of résumé, and probably never will, they offer an alternative way to get the employer’s attention. Also, they offer you the opportunity to stand out from the competition. In some cases, a video résumé is helpful when you are applying for a job abroad. This provides a middle ground for you and employers in case you aren’t available to physically attend a job interview.

What are the advantages of a video résumé?

A video résumé can show your personality and other intangible skills which may be difficult to identify from a traditional résumé. Apart from that, it adds creativity, making it more interactive and so much more:

Meanwhile, employers are more likely to spend up to 30 seconds watching a video, compared to the reported 6 seconds of reviewing a printed résumé.

What are the disadvantages of a video résumé?

If it doesn’t look professional, it can do more harm than good, as you’ll likely be viewed as sloppy and unprepared. Moreover, if you are not comfortable appearing in front of a camera, you risk blowing your chances as your discomfort will be painfully obvious.

You might also want to give up on the idea of using a video résumé for the following reasons:

Simply put, it sometimes may not even be appropriate to use a video résumé. While this is more easily accepted in the creative industries, you never know what each employer wants to see. It may be suitable for a job in marketing, social media, design and the arts but that doesn’t mean it will work as effectively when applying for a position in an accounting or legal firm. This is one of the reasons why it’s safer to create a chronological résumé, which is more commonly used in every field.

When should you use a video résumé?

Industries for which it is appropriate to use a video résumé include:

Industries for which it’s not appropriate to use a video résumé include:

While a video résumé is often considered to be appropriate for creative roles (and not so much for corporate and conservative positions, or those that require a high degree of formality), it largely depends on the employer. As such, it’s always a good idea to think about company culture to figure out what you think it’s suitable. For example, are you applying for a tech-savvy startup or an old-school legal firm? Researching an employer can help you figure out what’s appropriate.

How to make a video résumé

Unlike a written résumé, a video version allows you to show who you are in a more entertaining and engaging way. This gives you the opportunity to create something on your own – the way only you know how. Essentially, you can do whatever you want with it, as long as it follows a few basic rules.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create your own video résumé.

Step 1: Find the right equipment

You will need a computer, internet access and a camera. There is also the option of using a smartphone but if you want it to look professional, it’s best to use editing software such as Microsoft Movie Maker on Windows or Apple iMovie for Macs. Lightworks is another good choice, though it’s not for beginners.

Since most people use YouTube, you can create an account on the platform and upload your video there. However, you will need to make sure the video is in one of the following formats:

Step 2: Choose the perfect spot

Apart from choosing software, you will also need to think about other practicalities such as finding a clean set or background. Just like you would do for a Skype interview, make sure that you choose a spot that is clutter-free and that isn’t messy or distractive in any way. Think about where is the most suitable place for you to film. Is it your room, your school or the great outdoors (eg: the park)? Take your time to make a wise choice.

Step 3: Prepare a script

A script can help you introduce yourself and give you some sort of structure with a beginning, middle and end to what you are saying. This should tell employers what you do and describe the type of position you are seeking. Here’s what you can do:

Step 4: Go for it

This is going to be the most time-consuming part of the process. Don’t forget to talk about your educational background and work experience, possibly mentioning previous job titles and companies you worked for. Refer to your biggest accomplishments and what you have learnt while there.

You can do this in many ways. Some prefer to do it through narration (a timeline of what they have done), a mock interview (answering relevant questions), a project showcase, a reel or a mixture of these. The way you present information can help you make it more interesting while you talk about your accomplishments. Adding clickables and embedding links to your video, as well as music and informational graphics, can be incredibly effective.

There should be an emphasis on the conclusion because it needs to be short and sweet. Here you need to quickly summarise what you have said using focused and direct language. Remind employers that they can download a paper-version of your résumé, thank them for taking the time to watch the video and include your contact details to let them know how you can be reached.

Step 5: Upload your video

Once you are happy with your result, you can upload it to YouTube or Vimeo. If you are using YouTube, this is how you can go about doing it:

After this, you can use the link to include on your social media profiles and online portfolio, and share it directly with potential employers.

Video résumé examples

When you are out for the job hunt, it’s always useful to take a look at other best examples. Whether you are browsing for templates on the internet or discussing about the content with your friends, this should help you experiment with different ideas. Meanwhile, we’ve put together a few video résumé examples for you to check out for inspiration.

Tips for success

1. Stay professional

Just because you’re using a video résumé doesn’t mean that you’re allowed to be overly casual. In fact, if you want to show employers you have what it takes, you need to dress for the role and smile for the camera. You also need to stay positive and friendly throughout the whole session. Don’t worry if you don’t get it the first time. Try as many retakes as you need to make it perfect!

2. Be energetic

A video résumé is essentially a combination of a résumé and a job interview. This gives you the opportunity to present the ‘real’ you, so don’t be afraid to let your personality shine. To do that, you need to be confident in what you’re saying. This should get the attention of recruiters and help to build a sense of trust. You also need to be able to articulate effectively and be convincing.

3. Be brief

Remember that your video résumé shouldn’t be long. In fact, it’s best to keep it under a minute. If it gets more than a minute long, it might become boring to viewers, and your goal is to make employers want to see more – not less – of you. The video should be a mini advertisement of you, and the last thing you want to do is to present yourself like just another candidate.

4. Sell yourself

Figure out what you want to talk about and build around that by providing examples that are relevant to the role you are applying for. Get to know your audience, find out what they are looking for and start talking about your skills, experience and the years you have been working in the field. Identify what makes you a strong candidate by focusing on your key strengths and show how you meet the job criteria.

5. Share with family and friends

It’s important to get feedback from people you trust. Ask your friends, family or a careers advisor to tell you what they think about it, and make the appropriate edits and changes.

6. Include answers to common questions

This saves employers’ time for inviting you in a job interview.

7. Speak slowly and clearly

Give yourself some time to say what you need to say and use silence effectively.

8. Don’t simply read your résumé to the camera

Be inventive, come up with a good story and an effective sales pitch, and use your surroundings and software tools to help you make your video a short movie explaining why you should be hired.

9. Show off your personality

The idea of creating a video is to show your personality. If you don’t intend on doing so, there is no point putting a video résumé together. Remember, employers want to get a better sense of who you are, so don’t be afraid to be yourself.

10. Take more than one shot

It’s impossible to get it right the first time, so don’t be afraid to experiment a little until you get the result you need.

If you are currently looking for a job, ask yourself if it’s appropriate to use a video résumé for your chosen field. Obviously, it isn’t for everyone nor is it intended to be used for every profession and industry.

Keeping a paper copy for employers who prefer the traditional résumé is essential for success. Also, getting to know what you are after in a job, what you want to show employers and how to promote yourself effectively can help you come up with a résumé that highlights your key strengths and talents.

Have you ever used a video résumé? How did it go? Let us know in the comments section below.

This article was originally published in March 2014.

How to Make a Video Resume (Plus Top Examples)

Written by Samantha Ferguson

Last updated on 20th July 2022

The job market is tougher and ever, and the process has changed.

Technology has revolutionised every industry, and recruitment is no different.

If you’ve been asked to make a video resume (or video CV, if you’re in the UK), or if you want to make one to get an edge on the competition, then this article is for you.

We’re going to look at video resumes in detail. What are they? Why should you make one? And how?

What is a resume video?

We’re all familiar with a resume, right?

A resume video – or video resume! – is simply a video version of that: a recording that outlines a person’s professional experience and qualifications.

But it’s more than just transforming your paper resume into a video format. It’s a way for you to showcase your personality, create a great first impression, and emphasise your talent and skills.

Just like a paper resume, you need to cover the essentials:

And, above all, make sure you answer one simple question: Why should the employer hire you?

If you’re a little uncomfortable in front of a camera, no problem! Not all video resumes need to show a candidate talking directly to a camera. Other styles include:

Animation

Whiteboard video

Stop-motion

Choose a style that is going to best represent you and your skills.

Why create a video resume?

A video resume can help you stand out in a competitive job market. In a world where attention spans are shrinking, video is the perfect way to get your message across succinctly and effectively.

With studies finding that visuals are processed 60,000x faster than text, a video resume will get your message across straight away and could pique the interest of a recruiter who has been filtering through paper resumes all day.

In addition to that, a video resume is likely to leave a lasting impression. According to a Wyzowl infographic about the power of visual communication, people remember 10% of what they hear, 20% of what they read, and 80% of what they see and do. So, by watching your resume instead of reading it, recruiters are more likely to remember you when the time comes to hire a candidate.

If you’re in a creative industry, particularly one that revolves around design and motion graphics, then there’s even more reason for you to create a video resume. By showing potential employers a video that you’ve made, you’re not only presenting them with your resume but also a piece of work that they can use as an example of your talent.

How to make a video resume: 6 top tips

If you’ve never made a video resume before (or even a video before!) then it can be a little bit daunting, and you may not know where to start. Here are 6 top tips to help you along the way.

1. Write a script

First things first: Do not wing it. To ensure your video includes everything that you need to cover, write a script out first. This will give you time to perfect what you want to say and phrase everything in the best way.

If you’re going to be on camera then it’s also best to memorise the script. You don’t want to be reading from it while filming as this could come across as unprofessional and detract from how you want to portray yourself to potential employers.

2. Make it relevant

Just like a paper resume, your video resume should be specific to the role you are applying for. A generic video is unlikely to impress potential employers, but personalisation will show them how much the role means to you and will make for a more memorable application!

3. Keep it short

Recruiters are busy people. They have a lot of resumes to get through and they want to be able to do it as quickly as possible. If you send in a feature-length biopic about your life so far, it’s safe to say that they aren’t going to watch it in its entirety.

According to a study by Wistia, the ideal video length for maximum viewer engagement is 1-2 minutes, with 90 seconds being the sweet spot.

4. Get creative

Unfortunately, a video alone is not going to make you stand out. Tons of people are making video resumes now, so you need to make yours worth watching.

Think outside-the-box and get creative when it comes to filming your video. We’re going to take a look at 3 awesome video resumes a little further down so be sure to watch those to gain some inspiration!

5. Make it professional

This might seem like stating the obvious, but your video should be of a professional quality. Thankfully, most smartphones these days are capable of filming in HD. It’s fine to shoot it (or animate it) yourself, but make sure that the lighting, framing and editing are akin to that of a video made by a professional.

Also, make sure that your voice can be heard clearly–whether you’re speaking directly to the camera or recording a voiceover.

6. Collect feedback

Before sending your video resume out to employers, ask your family and friends to critique it. It’s always better to get feedback from others because they may spot a mistake that you missed, or they might even suggest a fantastic idea that didn’t occur to you.

3 awesome video resumes

Before creating your own video resume, it could help to gather some inspiration by looking at some awesome examples.

Denny Kremblas

This is a filmmaker’s resume so, as you’d expect, it’s beautiful and professionally-shot. Aside from that, it gives an insight into the candidate’s past to let potential employers know more about him and his journey.

The video ends strong with the candidate’s contact details and also links to his other videos–so potential employers can view more of his work before getting in touch.

Maria Rodriguez

This animated video would really stand out in an employer’s inbox. It’s bright, colourful and fun, and it covers all points succinctly. The candidate covers her education, past experience, special skills, and also some of her personal interests.

Pay close attention to the script when watching it. A great script, like this one, can really intrigue potential employers and make them want to find out more.

Mark Leruste

You may think that making a comedic resume video is a little bit risky, and perhaps it is. But, after trawling through applicant after applicant, a recruiter might really appreciate some light humour to break up their day. Plus, it’s one way to get them to remember you!

This candidate does a great job of mixing humour with the facts that every employer wants to know.

Thanks for reading

A study by the recruitment software company, Talent Now found that video is already being used by 60% of hiring managers and recruiters, and 22% more are considering using it in the future.

Video resumes are fast becoming the new norm, so it’s important to make one and start sending it out to potential employers – Good luck!

For more tips, tricks, and ideas on all things video, head to the Wyzowl blog.

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How to Make a Video Resume that’ll land you a Job in 2022 (With Examples and Templates)

Last Updated on: August 05, 2022

Create PRO videos in minutes with InVideo

Did you know that video resumes have been around for a very long time and are a great way to get an edge over the competition?

A well-made video resume can give you a chance to present yourself creatively and allow a hiring manager to assess your personality, thus giving you an opportunity to better represent yourself over traditional CVs.

But there’s a catch- an unprofessional video resume can adversely hinder your chances too and hence, the real question is how do you create one that makes recruiters stand up and take notice, even if you don’t know how to edit videos?

In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to create pro video resumes + if you stick around till the end we will also share free templates you can use right away to create a stunning video resume using InVideo’s online editor.

Plan of action

1. Should you make a video resume?

Before we jump into whether or not you should make a video resume, it is important to understand that video resumes are not a substitute for traditional resumes. Hiring managers will always need a document for reference that has all of your details. However, a video resume can be an interesting way to break the fourth wall and get your future employer’s attention.

Source: Wyzowl

Industries that depend on visual communication and engagement like media, design, fashion, advertising, and production would appreciate a video resume and it would add more weight to your profile. On the other hand, if you are applying to customer-facing roles like sales, a video resume will help you stand out from the other applications and give your hiring manager a better understanding of your skills.

2. What should be in a video resume?

A good video resume will introduce you, summarise your experiences and learnings, and lastly but most importantly, give a hiring manager reasons to reach out to you. To help you understand the building blocks of a video resume, let’s divide it into 3 sections: the introduction, the experience, and the call-to-action.

A. Introduction:

B. Experience:

C. Call-to-action:

You must also check out the end of Mattias Larson’s video resume which fits so aptly for his role as a filmmaker.

Here’s a list of dos and don’ts for making a video resume:

1. Always maintain eye contact with the viewer

You want to speak directly to the person viewing the video and have a conversation with them, and so it is essential that when you record yourself you look directly inside the camera lens.

2. Show your personality

3. Dress appropriately

4. Record in proper light conditions

5. Keep it simple and short

Don’ts:

1. Use of slang words and jargon

One of the biggest no-nos of a video resume is using slang words or jargon. This may be perceived as disrespectful and lessen your chances to be shortlisted.

2. Avoid background noise

3. Mug up the script and recite it

You want to have a conversation and not just spew out information. You don’t need to remember the script verbatim, instead, know the gist and let the words flow naturally when you record yourself.

4. Worry about not covering everything

3. How to make a video resume?

If you want to create an impressive video resume you have to plan and execute it well. This is why we have jotted down a step-by-step plan for you to follow.

Let’s begin then!

A. Make a note of what you want to say

B. Write your video resume script

Here’s a template you can start using to write your video resume script right away.

C. Shooting the visuals & recording the audio

Depending on the role you’re interviewing for, you can also set up your frame to support your story. For example, if you’re a photographer or filmmaker, you can shoot in a studio set up with lights and equipment in the background, and if you are a fashion designer or artist, you can showcase your work in the frame to make it more creative and interesting.

You must have enough B rolls to make your video resume visually engaging. We have written a complete guide that will help you master the art of shooting and editing B rolls. However, if you don’t want to spend time and shoot B rolls, we’ve got a superb hack for you that will let you use stock footage to make your video resume visually stunning. We’ll get to it in the next section.

D. Editing your video resume

Now that you have your footage ready, it’s time to edit it.

We’ll be using InVideo to edit our video resume because it is super user-friendly, gets the work done quickly, and is free. In fact, if you have never created a video before, don’t worry, the editor is super intuitive and easy to use.

On InVideo, you can either start with a blank canvas (perfect if you know exactly how you want your video to look) or you can choose from our video resume templates and customize them to suit your style. Here’s a step-by-step guide to editing your video resume on InVideo:

Step 1: Sign up with InVideo for free

Log on to InVideo.io and sign up using your email ID. It is free and you don’t need to put in your credit card information.

Step 2: Choose a template or blank canvas

Once you have logged in on InVideo, you can either choose a blank canvas or search for a template using the search bar. For this example, we will be using a template. Simply type ‘video resume’ in the search bar and you will be directed to pre-made, fully customizable templates.

Choose the template that best fits your script and click on Use this template to take it to the online editor.

Step 3: Upload your footage

Once you’re on the editor page, you can upload your video footage by clicking Upload Media on the left-hand side toolbar.

Step 4: Add your videos to the timeline

Step 5: Add B rolls to your video resume

You can follow the same steps to create your video resume but instead of uploading your B roll files, you can simply click on the media library and search for free stock footage. For example, if you want your B roll to support the narrative of you working as a beach cleaning volunteer, simply type the words ‘beach cleaning volunteer’ and you will get many stock videos to choose from.

You can try this with any other keywords and our media library will scout for the most relevant stock videos for you to add to your video resume.

Step 6: Final check before exporting

Once you’re done with adding B rolls to your video resume, preview the video by clicking on the play icon above the timeline. If you’re happy with what you see, click on Export and then Download your video resume once it is ready.

Ready to make your own video resume? We’ve listed down 10 unique video resume examples to motivate you to create your own.

4. 10 amazing video resume examples to inspire you

1. Conversational video resume

Mark Leruste ’ s creative video resume went viral in 2012 and it is no surprise why. The video is engaging, funny and uses quick cuts to effectively tell the story. Most importantly, the tone of the video is conversational and the visuals make it very interesting to watch.

2. Scripted sketch video resume

This creative video resume by Alex is scripted in a way where she interviews herself, allowing her hiring managers to not only see her quirky personality but also assess her storytelling skills. She answers questions that are usually asked in the first interview meeting and uses her editing skills to visually represent her narrative.

3. Simple video resume

This extremely simple video resume by Arthur Coppens is a great example of how you can use video resumes to show your work and demonstrate your skillset. It has been shot in a simple setting with not a lot of snappy editing techniques but it does the job well.

Use this template to create your own video resume.

4. Experiential video resume

In her video resume, Shafira Attasha uses photos and videos to highlight her experiences and show her hiring managers what she has been doing. The video is filled with visual anecdotes of her internship, volunteering, and job experiences that bring out her versatile and creative personality.

5. Storytelling video resume

If you are a filmmaker, shooting an incredible video resume is a great way to showcase your skills. Being a filmmaker, Denny Kremblas has turned his video resume into a story of him and he narrates his experiences at the backdrop of stunning visuals. This is a great resume example to show how important it is to write a script for your video resume.

Here’s a video resume template for you to get started.

6. Motion graphics video resume

Kristiyan Despodov’s video resume shows off her strong editing skills even without her speaking in the video. The music plays an important role in this video resume because it leads the narrative and keeps the viewer hooked.

Use this template to create your own video resume for free.

7. Animated video resume

This animated video resume by Nick Gray is simple and creative. He speaks about his skills and experiences that make him a perfect fit for the job role and the interesting visuals keep you hooked to the video.

Use this template to create your own video resume for free.

8. Self-pitch video resume

9. Introduction video

This video curriculum vitae by Mattias Larsson is visually stunning and lets the hiring manager get a peek into the kind of work he can produce. His video resume does not list out his experience but is rather an introduction where he also talks about why he got into filmmaking.

10. Vlog-style video resume

Isa’s visually-driven video resume will have you hooked to her story from the very beginning. She not only introduces herself but also lists out her life and job experiences, her skill set, and what motivates her. This vlog-style video resume is engaging and gives you an insight into Isa’s life.

Use this template to create your own video resume.

Summing up

You know everything there is to know about creating a great video resume. We have also equipped you with tools and hacks to make your video resume visually stunning. So what are you waiting for? Start now.

You can start with the 5000+ templates available on InVideo’s online editor that allows you to create stunning videos in minutes, so sign up for a free account today.

If you found this article helpful and you want to leverage videos for your business or brand, you should definitely check out this YouTube video ideas guide with more than 200 video ideas.

Want to be a part of a community of creators, just like yourself, and discuss video guides, strategies, and of course, inspire each other? Join the InVideo community – a place for you to connect and learn from 20,000+ other video creators like yourself.

1. What is a video resume?

2. Are video resumes a good idea?

Even though video resumes have been around for a while, many industries have not openly taken to it. You need to understand the culture of the industry you are applying to and then ask yourself if a video resume will help or hinder your chances? For example, a video resume will not fail in creative industries and even tech. However, industries like finance, hospitality, medicine, and teaching still operate traditionally. If you still feel like making one, you can create a short video resume to introduce yourself.

Create a great video CV

Create a great video CV

If you get it right a video CV can display your personality and demonstrate your creativity, passion and drive. It could also make you stand out in the competitive application process. Learn more about what to include, how to film and the pros and cons of this approach

While they’re not suitable for every job, video CVs are increasingly popular. With employers typically inundated with applications for every advertised role, it’s important to make your CV stand out. One way that career-savvy graduates are doing this is by submitting their CV in video format.

Despite the common perception that video CVs are only applicable to certain vocations, they can get you noticed by recruiters in any sector.

Introducing the video CV

A video CV is a short recording used by a candidate to apply for a job. Instead of replacing traditional CVs, a video CV is used to supplement a written application.

They can either be uploaded to a video hosting site, such as YouTube, or sent as a video file directly to employers via email.

The purpose of a CV in this format is to highlight a candidate’s skills and experience while giving employers an insight into their personality.

In 2018 Mounia Essaadani was finalising her Masters thesis in publishing studies. She opted for a video CV when applying to an internship programme at Penguin Random House. ‘I sent it on a USB stick in an orange envelope (Penguin’s brand colour) and designed my CV like one of their traditional orange book covers.’ While her application was unsuccessful Mounia believes the video opened other doors. ‘The video was a good display of my skills as a content creator and storyteller and it lead me to other opportunities in content creation roles.’

Video CVs are usually between one and three minutes long. It’s important to grab a recruiter’s attention while keeping the running time of the video to a minimum.

When to use one

The idea of getting in front of a camera and putting yourself in the public domain can be scary, but in some industries a video CV can really set you apart.

Video CVs are most commonly used to apply for creative and customer-facing roles in sectors such as advertising, creative arts, marketing, media, PR and sales.

However, recorded CVs don’t have to be restricted to particular jobs or industries. They can also be particularly useful when applying for digital, journalism, fashion or IT related roles.

That being said for more traditional jobs, such as those in law, accounting, engineering, medicine and construction a video CV may not always be appropriate.

When deciding whether to use a video CV take into consideration the job you’re applying for and the company you hope to join. Do some research into the culture of the organisation to help you decide whether it’s suitable.

‘You need to ask yourself if a video CV will be a goof fit,’ say the careers team at the University of Westminster. ‘If an employer has a standardised application process involving an application form, or they specifically ask for a written CV, don’t try to substitute this with a video.’

Pros and cons

It’s also a good idea to weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of this method of application before making the decision.

Video CVs have a number of advantages. For example, they can help you:

However, they also have their share of disadvantages. They could:

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Prepare to film

If you decide to give it a go there are a number of things to consider before you start filming. First off, don’t be daunted by the quality of other video CVs you find online. The aim isn’t to be the next Steven Spielberg, but rather to give a glimpse into who you are and how you can help organisations grow.

Plan the location of your video to ensure that you have a quiet, well-lit space to film in. You’ll also need to consider the backdrop of your recording. It should be clear and free from clutter. If you’re using a specific set or props make sure that everything that appears in your video is appropriate and professional.

‘When I prepare a video, I always imagine a film in my head of how I would like the video to look,’ explains Mounia who now works as a marketing manager and content creator. ‘The intro needs to be catchy so I always think of how I can make something original. Then I start writing a short script. When I have the text I start to draw a storyboard of the different scenes and angles I plan to shoot. After all the planning I start recording. I recorded my own video CV with a tripod and my camera. I added the voice over and some light music in the background during the editing phase.’

The Westminster careers team stresses the importance of planning in advance. ‘Speak to your LinkedIn network, mentors or potential employers and do your research as to whether it’s likely to be appropriate for the role you want. Rehearse and rehearse again. Get feedback from others. Leave yourself enough time to re-record and edit the video until you are happy with the finished version.’

What to include

It’s so important to be genuine so don’t be tempted to copy another video CV you see on YouTube.

Structure the video so that it has a beginning, middle and end. Start by introducing yourself, explaining why you’ve created the video and why you’re the right person for the job.

Talk about your unique selling points and any relevant skills and experience, showing examples of your work and demonstrating your skills through the use of slideshows, clips or on-screen graphics.

At the end of your video summarise what you have told the employer and reiterate why you’re right for the role. Thank them for watching the video and include your contact details. Link to online platforms that could strengthen your application, such as a website or social media account.

The format of the video could be a project showcase, mock interview (where you answer relevant questions to camera) or a narrated timeline of your experience and achievements. The choice is yours.

‘If you want to create a video CV think storytelling first,’ advises Mounia. ‘Our attention span is shorter than ever, so you really have to think about how you can maintain your audience. Don’t just stand in front of a camera talking for three minutes, try to include different scenes. Let your creativity shine and most of all, have fun.’

Technical aspects

As well as practical considerations such as location and script, you’ll also need to consider technical aspects such as filming equipment, the editing process and how you’ll make the video accessible to recruiters.

You’ll need a computer, internet access and a camera as a minimum. You may also need a tripod, lighting and editing software such as Final Cut Pro, Microsoft Movie Maker or Apple iMovie.

When filming, make the video dynamic by using different shots and camera angles. Do as many takes as possible to give you something to work with during the editing process, arguably one of the most important steps to creating a great video CV.

It’s at this stage that you can tighten up your video, reordering and tweaking shots, cutting bits that didn’t work and adding visual and sound effects (such as pointing to text as it appears on screen or background music). The scenes that make the final cut should be those that portray you in the best possible light.

If video editing isn’t your thing ask a friend or put the word out online for someone who might be able to help.

Once you have a finished video you need to decide how you’ll make this accessible to recruiters. Uploading the video to the internet provides easy access for employers. This way you can also link and promote your video CV on your social media channels.

Outstanding video resume examples to get you hired

Table of Contents

Make stunning videos really easily

For the majority of workers out there, a video resume seems like a scary prospect. But when you’ve been job hunting for a while, you start to yearn for ways to stand out, a simple solution for bottling your x-factor and dousing your potential employer in it.

Enter: video resumes.

But how do you make good video resume? And equally important, where do you find video resume examples to inspire and guide you?

Biteable is one of the most popular online tools for creating video resumes and we’ve seen some cracking video resume examples recently. We gathered them all here, along with our favorite tips for making your own.

After you’ve soaked up all that inspiration, get started with one of the ready-to-edit video resume templates we included.

Create videos that drive action

Activate your audience with impactful, on-brand videos. Create them simply and collaboratively with Biteable.

What makes a good video resume?

A video resume (or video CV for you Brits and Aussies) isn’t a verbatim list of your accomplishments and employment history turned into an awkward movie. Paper resumes still do a good job of summing up your quantifiable achievements.

A video resume should make an impression and show off your undefinable qualities. It should convey the strengths you can’t put on a paper resume, qualities such as warmth, clear communication, charisma, humor, and your off-the-cuff chatter.

Here are some of our favorite examples of excellent video resumes.

The internet’s best video resume examples

Before you jump into making your own video resume, check out some video resume examples (or CV video examples, for those of you speak who the Queen’s English), to get you inspired.

1. A novel format

Alex creates a scenario in this video where she interviews herself all the while showing off her editing, storytelling and presentation skills, painting the story of a determined, aware and creative young person ready to work. If you’re trying to get into the video or creative industry, this approach can show off your creative thinking.

2. Precise (and concise)

Sajita doesn’t mince words, she’s well rehearsed and speaks clearly with limited vague business jargon because she knows this isn’t open mic night at the Chuckle Shack. Get it right, get it tight. Get the key points you’d like to discuss down on paper and avoid awkward pauses.

3. Skills on display

People are busy. Kristiyan Despodov gets to the point immediately with this punchy video resume that doesn’t even show his face. He gives you an introduction to his skills rather than the full suite of abilities and shows them in action. You want to intrigue the viewer, so only show the best bits.

4. Design prowess

Are you an in-front-of-the-camera or a behind-the-scenes person? Josep Maria Arroyo managed to make a video resume without actually using any video. He works his magic in post-production, formatting photography of himself into a video resume that shows off his design chops, with clean layouts and a minimal color palette.

5. Multimedia all the way

If there’s a way to include snippets of yourself actually working, do it! Laura Harris uses snippets of screen recordings to show her skills in-situ while also rattling off a list of development languages she’s familiar with. It’s a great way to emphasise your skills and will break the video up with different types of content.

6. Big on social proof

Think of it as the real life version of LinkedIn endorsements or references. Theo Ramsay’s three-minute video resume might be a touch on the long side, but including interviews with people who vouch for him is a unique element that’s not often seen in video resumes and can be quite compelling.

7. Creative showcase

Cristina Castro took an even more creative approach to the video resume — she literally got crafty. It might sound cheesy but creative problem solving and self-expression will benefit you in almost all industries. And it’ll definitely benefit your resume.

Showing some creative flair in your video resume, even if it’s just a thoughtful intro screen (like the ones we make at Biteable), can add an element of polish to your video resume.

8. A conversational tone

Mark Leruste has racked up over half a million views on his funny, engaging video resume. It’s a polished piece that uses multimedia and snappy cuts really effectively, and it’s obviously very funny. But the unsung hero is the tone of the script. It’s written for video and it’s light and funny.

It can be really difficult to transition to writing scripts that will be read out loud if you’re not used to it. But a bespoke script that’s written for video specifically will go much further than anything that was written for the page. Why? Because we don’t speak like we write. To finetune that script, try reading it aloud before you get in front of the camera.

9. Crystal clear CTA

In just one minute, Graeme Anthony tells you exactly who he is, what he’s good at, and what he’s trained to do. Then he links you off to his website to find more information which is something a lot of people forget – you have to give the viewer a path to find out more. Even though this video is only 60 seconds, it does the job, shows flair, and gives you somewhere to go.

10. Authentic (and a song)

Erin Michael Vondrak really wanted to work at Valve so she wrote this little ditty. It’s funny, weird, perfectly tailored for the employer she was targeting, and oddly endearing. It’s a good reminder that a video resume doesn’t have to be polished to get attention, it just has to be authentic and resonate with your audience.

Video resume templates

As promised, we’ve lined up some ready-to-edit video resume templates to help you in your quest for a job-search home run.

Perfectly polished

You don’t have to be a video editor to create tasty visuals. Achieve polished results with a professional template. Edit this Biteable video resume template with your own content and bada bing, bada boom — you’re the proud owner of a beautiful video resume.

Visual prompts

A good video never drags. Use visual prompts to accompany your points rather than monologuing to the camera. Complementary video footage (whether it’s stock imagery or video content you’ve shot yourself) can work together with text to convey more emotion and break up the dialogue of your video resume.

Not ready for a resume but #OpenToWork?

LinkedIn’s #OpenToWork feature helps connect job-seekers with recruiters by letting everyone know you’re…open to work. Stand out from the crowd with an #OpenToWork video that gets to the heart of who you are and what you offer in 30 seconds.

Show off your most hireable skills to a broader audience than your typical video resume, and watch as new connections make themselves.

Use a snappy, fun, and professional option like this one:

Or a more traditionally corporate-style video like this one:

Is a video resume right for me?

You might be left wondering if a video resume is the right move for you. Video resumes have been a ‘thing’ for years but some industries and employers still see them as wacky.

You need to decide if a video resume can help or hinder your chances by deep diving into the culture of the industry or company you’re trying to break into.

What are the cultural expectations? What is the average hiring manager like? Are they more traditional or do they embrace difference?

If you’re trying to get into the creative field, go for it. Don’t hesitate. Tech is also an area where a video resume would be a safe bet.

For more traditional industries (such as teaching, finance, and nursing) think about what angle your video resume could take that would give you an edge over the competition. It could be as simple as introducing yourself and saying hello or demonstrating your skills in-situ.

What are the benefits of a video resume?

Well. You’re watching the video resumes of these people but how often do you sit down to read people’s paper resume? Literally never.

Video resumes are a potent tool if done well. Companies talk big game about merit-based employment, but when you’re faced with a pile of resumes that list equal achievements, awards, and all brag about conversational French, who has the edge? The culture match does. The person who will get the job done and elevate the office culture.

We don’t often let our personalities shine on our resumes but remember: there’s a person, not a robot, on the other side of the Seek link.

As simple as it sounds, that person will connect with you more by seeing your face and hearing your voice than reading your two-page, Arial, size 12 font description of your career. There’s a lot of unspoken cues you can take from the way a person speaks, moves, dresses, and the words they use that can indicate if they’d be a good culture fit.

Make a video resume with Biteable

Now you’ve seen what the competition is doing, go out and break a leg! But not really. Unless you’re applying for a job at Leg Breaking Inc. in which case carry on. Try out Biteable’s rejection-proof templates to get you started.

Biteable makes it easy for anyone to create a video with customizable templates and done-for-you editing features. Add your own footage (or record new footage directly in the app), or choose from over 1.8 million stock clips, images, and unique animations.

With Biteable, you’ll make your first video faster than they can say “you’re hired”.

Create videos that drive action

Activate your audience with impactful, on-brand videos. Create them simply and collaboratively with Biteable.