Video Resumes - Show Them Who You Are!

Thinking back on my own personal experiences with job searches, I can remember when sending your resume and a cover letter, addressed to a prospective employer was enough. Searching for a job has now become a full time job for many. Not only do you have to apply, it takes research to know who you are competing with. It requires that you research the company you are applying to, so that you understand their business mindset, their company culture and who their target customer base is. Then you can decide if this company is actually a good fit and some where you want to work.

We can no longer just sit behind our typewriters and generate a few cover letters, attach our resumes, stuff the envelopes and head to the post office. In today's market we have to network and advertise as if we are the product for sale. Challenging isn't it?

In a Professional Leadership Workshop that I recently attended through Los Angeles Valley College, we covered many aspects of the job search process; resume writing, effective networking, amongst other valuable information. We learned about a recent trend in marketing yourself, using the internet and the latest tools available to us.

The Video Resume! What an amazing concept.

Using a simple video camera that might already be installed on your home computer, you can create and record your own video resume and upload it to You Tube, or keep it saved on your computer to send as an attachment to accompany an email sent to a prospective employer.

Think about it, the employer gets to see you first hand without ever scheduling a face to face interview. This can be quite helpful to employers and can work in your benefit too. The traditional resume is a great way to list to skills and experience, but doesn't show case your personality.

When employers are forced to weed through hundreds upon thousands of traditional resumes they receive in response to a job posting, imagine how tedious and lengthy this process can be. Now think about that same employer going through their pile and having "you" jump out at them. Imagine how entertained they will be. What a refreshing way to break the monotony of selecting a candidate to join their company.

Your video resume has now grabbed the attention of a captive audience. You will be remembered and stand out amongst the competition and avoid being placed at the bottom of the pile.

In addition to those benefits, think about the fact that you now have the opportunity to rehearse in the privacy of your own home. You can record, review and re-record yourself as many times as you need to, until you get it right!

This will serve as a great tool for you too. As you review your video, you get to see first hand, what others see when talking to you. A chance for self improvement!

And when you are ready to publish your video, you are at your best, well rehearsed and can avoid the nervous stutter that never fails to come across on a face to face interview.

Check out You Tube and type "video resume" in the search option, for various video samples. You can get some great ideas and tips from others.

Don't delay, jump start your career and get noticed. Start your Video Resume today!