Three things you should know about - video CVs

1 Get on, on set

Video CVs are set to become increasingly popular with employers, with jobseekers posting short films of themselves online and sending links when e-mailing their regular CV. In the US, the number of companies offering video CV production services is growing - and, in a recent survey, over half of employers say they expect to see video CVs increasing. Employers like being able to get a sense of a candidate’s personality, presentation skills, and professional manner prior to shortlisting for interview.

2 Lights, camera, action!

Ideally, video CVs ought not to run to more than a couple of minutes of monologue - but that means you have to be economical, packing a lot into the script. It’s important not to simply run through the same information as on your word-processed CV - instead, talk about motivation, interests, and aspirations, as well as what you want to get out of your career. Pay careful attention to your surroundings - use a plain backdrop and try out different lighting (and colours of clothes) to look your best.

3 Freeze frame...

Those who shudder at the prospect of video CVs may yet have hope. Critics say employers won’t always want the hassle of logging on to what might be a slow internet connection to stream a video, when they can quickly glance through a ‘normal’ CV in print or on a PC. There’s also a strong argument that video CVs could contribute to discrimination on the grounds of age, ethnicity, or even simply looks - and that employers should base their interview on hard facts.