Apparently, there’s a new trend that many are trying to kick start and include with more traditional methods of landing a job. That new trend is submitting a video resume. While it may seem like a good idea at first and will certainly ensure a candidate is remembered, is it really his best option? A. Harrison Barnes, career coach and founder of award winning EmploymentCrossing.com says job applicants really should reconsider a decision to create and submit a video resume in their efforts of filling a job vacancy. There’s a considerable chance the effort at creativity will backfire and could very well cost a candidate the position. But why? And is it really catching on or just a temporary trend due to the popularity of sites such as YouTube? A. Harrison Barnes is quick to point out none of the positions currently available on his EmploymentCrossing.com site includes video.
Barnes points out several problems with the video method. First, it’s not the most professional way of getting your name in front of a potential employer. It’s unrealistic to believe every interviewer will take one look at the charming candidate in front of him and agree it is initiative that inspired this delivery method. In fact, these candidates may not even be taken seriously. With so many malicious viruses, some employers are reluctant to even open videos on their computers. Many prefer to play it safe and when they do, in one fell swoop, you’ve knocked yourself out of the running just because the employer didn’t pursue it.
Remember, too, in a traditional business routine, an interviewer reviews the resume and then calls in those candidates he believes have potential. It’s the art of conversation between two people – interviewer and candidate – but it’s more than that. It’s more about the communication where information is gathered, understandings are made and each can gauge the other’s reactions, intents, etc. In a video resume, it’s the candidate who does the talking, the interviewer is left out; and if an interviewer can’t interview the applicant, then what’s the purpose?
There is one new trend, similar to the video resume, that more businesses are beginning to incorporate during their hiring processes. New technology has allowed for easier video conferencing. It’s more common and affordable these days for computers to have webcams and microphones; further, sites such as Skype have made it even easier. It’s a great tool that’s used by those in search of new careers and the interviewers they’re scheduled to meet with. Barnes warns applicants: “Keep in mind, it’s usually the employer who initiates these video conferences.” You can always include your capabilities for video conferencing in the same areas on the cover letter and resume as your other contact information. Be sure to include your user name.
While submitting a video resume might not catch on, the use of live video conferencing has made it a lot easier for those looking for jobs to schedule several interviews in a single afternoon. The money saved in fuel costs alone makes it an option many are hoping will continue to be used – and by more businesses.
