How to make an original video CV?

The audiovisual format has a double advantage: it attracts attention and highlights the creativity of the director.

Discover the 5 essential steps to make a good video CV.

When to make a video CV?

Before you dive into the realization of your CV in video format , consider the need for you to produce one. Indeed, this type of CV is not relevant in all professional situations. It is also rare that companies expressly ask candidates for a video CV.

Note that the video CV does not in any way replace a paper CV . This format can however be useful to you in certain cases, especially …

If you are looking for a position in a sector where creativity is a valued quality, for example design, communication or the performing arts . In this case, a nice video CV attests to your creative skills !
If you covet a position that involves a lot of customer relations: you show your communication skills!

Steps to Make an Original Video Resume

1. Write the script

This first step does not require skills techniques and yet it is the most crucial!

Whether in paper or video format, the value of a CV is always in its content!

There is no question of improvising. Each word spoken has its importance, just like on a paper CV.

Start by describing your training, starting after the baccalaureate if you have completed higher education. Then, list your most significant professional experiences. Finally, write a few simple lines to develop the reasons that push you to look for a job in your sector.

When describing your professional experiences, emphasize your experience most important professional and illustrate this experience with a concrete example.

2. Define the frame of your video CV

Is your text ready? It’s time to think about staging your video resume . Choose your filming locations and think about the different sequences and different shots you want to shoot.

You can choose to put a voice over or speak in front of the camera, to film outside or inside, to change an outfit or not depending on the sequence… Put all these ideas down on paper. If you are particularly willful and organized, you can even write a storyboard to better visualize the rendering.

A storyboard is a cutout of the scenario of your film where you illustrate each scene you want to shoot with a drawing.

3. Film your sequences

You have now defined the locations of the shoot and the different shots you would like to have. First, gather the materials you will need. Here are some items that you may need:

A good quality camera or phone
A microphone (if some shots are taken outside)
Professional attire and more casual attire
Your script

Let’s go ! Ask a friend to film you. Make sure you speak clearly and pay attention to your body language, especially if you choose to make a cut to size plan.

4. Proceed to edit your video CV

If you have chosen to create a video CV , you probably already have some editing skills. If this is not the case, you will find a lot of software for beginners that are very easy to use.

The 2 most famous semi-professional editing software:

Adobe Premiere Pro
FinalCut Pro

5. Dress up your video

You can add panels, titles, subtitles or even links to make your video CV more attractive and effective. Choose your font carefully for headings, just like for a paper CV.

Some ideas to dress up your video CV:

Add a title panel at the start of your video: this panel can include your first and last name and the desired position
Add subtitles throughout the video: subtitles are particularly appreciated and help to understand
Add links to your social networks. You can create an end panel that has your links

6. Export your video CV and distribute it

And voila, your video is ready. Making a video resume takes time and commitment, but the results are worth it. Now all you have to do is export your video CV to send it to recruiters in your area.

How to make an original video CV?

When to make a video CV?