During this awful economy, there are so many applicants and so few jobs. Why would an employer choose you rather than resume #1177? Within that the flood of resumes are many that are impressive. So how do you break through and win?
Not by obsessing about the beautiful font, luxurious paper and chronological order of your printed resume. Or thinking you didn't get "that job" because you went to a state university rather than Harvard?
The differentiator is you! Not the "you" on paper or the raves you received from your previous employers, but the "you" who looks at the camera and has a sense of humor, is comfortable with the camera, has a winning smile-someone an employer would like to see on staff each morning.
While your impressive background and previous successes are essential, video resumes are now opening doors. In fact, polls show 89 percent of employers have said they would view a video resume. These potential employers also indicate that job candidates gain the edge when their "actions speak louder than words."
So how do you create a video resume? Numerous websites say all you need is a handicam to make a video. While that is true, your "on-camera" performance is equally important. If your "time in the spotlight" is limited to waving at the handicam, here are a few important tips in conveying "likeable" and "expert."
• Keep it short: Two minutes or under is optimum according to 78% of employers.
• Know your audience: Tailor your video to your target industry.
• Talk to me: Don't read. This is your opportunity to establish a relationship.
Or, click, it is on to the next candidate.
That's why Executive Speak/Write helps clients define their "best you," and capture that essence on tape. We encourage them to determine:
• Are you relating directly to the camera, but not staring?
• Is the information you're giving in such a short time the best way to present yourself?
• Are you unforgettable-from wardrobe to charm to confidence? Packaging is essential.
Job applicants are appropriately obsessive about being immaculate in print. They ask friends and experts to make sure resume format and wording are perfect. Shouldn't you have the same sense of being "immaculate" when the prospective employer sees you on tape? You must be trained and supervised to guarantee your two minutes is strong enough to convince a prospective boss you're the best choice for the job.
Steve Clements
No comments:
Post a Comment