Should You Make a Video Resume?
If your applications are getting little response, recording a video can feel like another way to get noticed. Before you spend an afternoon scripting and filming, consider what it would help an employer evaluate.
A video resume is a short introduction to your background, skills, and interest in a role. It can be useful when an employer requests one or when video helps you demonstrate something relevant to the work.
For an optional video, ask yourself: What would someone learn from watching this that they would miss in my written application?
If you have a clear answer, it may be worth making.
When a Video Resume Makes Sense
An employer’s request is the clearest reason to record one. Check the instructions for length, content, file format, and submission method before you start.
Pay attention to what they are asking for. A general introduction gives you room to choose your message. A recorded interview requires answers to specific questions. Prepare for the actual request.
An optional video can also work as a sample of your skills, provided the employer accepts it. For example:
- For a social media role: Show a short piece of original content and explain the audience you created it for.
- For a training role: Teach a simple process using clear, easy-to-follow steps.
- For a sales role: Demonstrate how you would explain a product and respond to a common question.
Having one of these job titles does not automatically mean you need a video. The value comes from what you demonstrate.
When to Put Your Time Elsewhere
If you would mainly read your resume aloud, consider whether a video adds enough to justify the effort.
You may get more value from improving your resume’s most relevant bullet points, updating your portfolio, or preparing examples for an interview. Your application should communicate your qualifications even if nobody opens an optional link.
Skip the video if the employer asks applicants to submit only specified documents. Follow the application process, including any required written resume.
Your comfort matters, too. A recording shares your appearance, voice, and surroundings. You can choose to keep an optional application focused on written materials and work samples. If you are job searching while employed, think carefully before posting a public video.
Choose One Example to Build Around
For an optional introduction, around a minute is a useful starting point. Adjust the length to fit the content, and follow any employer-provided limit.
Choose one experience that connects to the role. It could come from a job, internship, class project, volunteer position, or freelance assignment.
A simple outline can help:
- Your background: What experience are you bringing?
- Your example: What did you personally do?
- The outcome: What changed or improved?
- The connection: Why does that experience matter for this role?
The same approach helps demonstrate soft skills. Saying you are organized gives the employer a claim; explaining how you kept a project on schedule gives them evidence.
Here is a hypothetical example for someone moving from hospitality into an administrative role:
“Hi, I’m Maya. I’m applying for your administrative assistant position. In my restaurant job, I helped coordinate reservations and private events. For larger bookings, I confirmed guest counts, kept track of special requests, and shared updates with the manager and kitchen team. After a last-minute change caused confusion, I put together a booking checklist that my manager approved for future events. It helped us confirm the details before each shift. I’d bring that same attention to scheduling and communication to your team.”
Adapt the structure to your own experience. Use only details you can explain and support in a follow-up conversation.
Make It Easy to Watch
Use your phone or computer camera, a quiet space, and a simple background. Position the camera near eye level and check that your face is clearly visible.
Record a short test before doing several full takes. Listen for background noise and check whether you are speaking at a comfortable pace.
Add captions and correct any transcription errors, especially names and technical terms. If you show a work sample, explain what the viewer is looking at. Use only material you have permission to share.
Practice from a few bullet points until you can speak naturally. Keep edits simple enough that the viewer can follow your example without distracting effects or music.
Submit It With Care
Use the employer’s requested submission method. If a link is appropriate, label it clearly, such as “Video introduction | Maya Chen | Administrative Assistant.”
Check viewing permissions and test playback before submitting. Keep confidential information, customer details, and personal contact information out of any publicly accessible recording.
Even if you never send the video, rehearsing it can help you prepare an introduction for interviews and career fairs. Start with one example you know well, and practice explaining why it matters for the work you want to do.
