Hot take: video resumes, yay or nay?

Video resumes are becoming a major trend with many articles being dedicated to its increasing popularity. Leen takes a look at this trend from a recruiters' perspective.

Video resumes are becoming a major trend with many articles being dedicated to its increasing popularity. But when you look at the opinions of the people from the business, you will get a very different view of its rising popularity.

The general opinion is simple: a video resume should never replace a traditional resume but can add an extra touch to your application. Through video, you can show off your personality and specific skills that could be relevant for the job.

On the other hand, making a video resume mandatory might also increase discrimination and bias during the hiring process. Especially when you consider that not every person feels comfortable in front of a camera and this might create a barrier for many people to apply.

Of course, here I feel that everything also depends on the sector or the role. In the creative sector or in a sales role a video resume just makes more sense, because you can show your creativity, your communication skills, your enthusiasm for the role. But for a developer, I don’t really see how they can show off the necessary skills for the jobs.

Types of video resumes

To get an idea of what's out there: here three video resume types/approaches.

Besides that, candidates - but also advocates for video resumes - underestimate what it takes to make a successful video resume. Sending in low-quality content can hurt your chances for the role.

And don’t forget: you must write your content and then film your content. And if you’ve never been in front of the camera, getting it right takes some time or requires a lot of post-editing.

So, when you are considering making a video resume, really make sure that it creates an added value for your application. That being said, Sofico is looking forward to your application, whether it’s a splashing motivational letter or an inspiring video!

3 awesome video resumes

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

Article by Leen Steenberghs (HR officer and LinkedIn recruiter)