Here's a sign of the times -- my local TV station is airing 30-second video resumes every Thursday. It's a chance for people to tell potential employers why they should be considered for a position. I saw one the other night while on the treadmill and it was quite "interesting" to say the least.
Before I give my impression of what I saw, let me commend my local station for doing this. I think it's a great way to help people find jobs. If they wanted, they could also expand it. Put people on more often, put many video resumes on their site, etc. But it's a good start and their heart is in the right place.
But the guy I saw did NOT help himself one bit with his 30-second resume. Let's set aside the fact that he may have been nervous being on camera. Many people freeze up when a TV camera comes on. But what he said was of zero value -- things like "I like people," "I'm a good worker," and so on. He said nothing that made anyone want to hire him. In fact, he seemed so ill-prepared that, if anything, he convinced me that I would NEVER hire him. What a waste.
So, what should he had said? Here's a rough example (not edited/scripted for several hours like I would if I was going on air, but you'll get the picture):
Hi, my name's Jim Johnson. I have over 20 years' experience in developing and leading initiatives that drive sales and profits for my employers. For instance, two years ago I led a cost-cutting team that shaved 35% off our operating costs for a key program. And last year, I identified a new profit source that helped the company surpass its annual goals. I have a long history of delivering similar results for my employers and I know I can do the same for you. I look forward to telling you how.
Ok, so it's not great (I wrote it with only one review), but you can see what I'm getting at: accomplishments, accomplishments, accomplishments!!! That's what employers want to hear whether it's on a resume, in an interview or on a video interview. Tell them how you're a strong performer and use quantifiable information to back up your claims. If you can do this, and communicate your successes clearly, you will separate yourself from the pack by a long way.
For related information, see these posts:
I saw a couple of the 30-second video resumes on local TV here also, and there seemed to be an awful lot of experienced, loyal, and hard-working people around.
Posted by: cmadler | May 12, 2009 at 08:49 AM
Sorry, "experienced, loyal, and hard-working" should have linked here: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0720192/plotsummary
Posted by: cmadler | May 12, 2009 at 08:51 AM
I think Comcast Cable actually has an On-Demand section where you can post your own short video resume for local/national/comcast viewing region customers to see. Video interviews ON DEMAND!
Posted by: Doc S | May 12, 2009 at 04:23 PM
Not only on TV but there are websites such as http://www.PeopleCinema.com takes video resumes and provide a unique URL to each user. The good part is the video is displayed along with the complete resume.
Posted by: Rayan | May 15, 2009 at 03:21 PM