Video CV/Resume
From the ICAL TEFL wiki
Video CVs/Résumés are the new thing!
If you want to make your job application memorable send a video file about you along with your CV on paper.
A video CV/Résumé is not meant to be a substitute for the traditional résumé but an addition that will undoubtedly make you stand out and greatly increase your chances of being remembered by any potential employer.
Video files can be easily accessed through a PC or a DVD player connected to a TV set. Most schools have one or both of these facilities so you will not inconvenience them.
One of the great unknowns for any employer looking to hiring staff from abroad is the personal aspects of a candidate which are missing from your paper CV.
A thoughtfully prepared video CV can convey instantly a lot of information about yourself, your personality, your demeanour, and so on, which usually do not come across in a paper CV.
On video they will be able to see what you look like and sound like and generally get a pretty good idea of the kind of person you are: shy, loud, gentle, outgoing, sincere, excited, confident, etc.
Of course, they’ll know you have tried to portrait yourself at your best but just being able to see you in person will be a great added bonus and probably one of the key factors in their final decision.
Before the Recording
Before recording yourself make sure that:
- Your dress code is appropriate to the type of job you are applying for. Flip flops or short skirt are not ideal even if you are applying for a teaching job in the Caribbean.
- The setting you have chosen for your video is uncluttered and relevant. The back room of your local hang-out or your messy lounge won’t do!
- You have a mini script to follow. Jot down the main points you want to cover in your presentation and memorise them.
- Don’t make a verbal copy of your CV. Remember a video CV is your chance to show employers the qualities you would bring to the job on top of your BA or TESL/TEFL Certificate!
After the Recording
A good sound and picture quality can make all the difference, so don’t overlook the editing side.
Once you have recorded your video and are happy with its quality you have the option of posting it on the Net. Check places like YouTube, FaceBook, or the video section of employment sites, don’t forget to load it on your home page, if you have one.
Once you have it firmly placed on a site get the correct url for it and include it in your paper CV so that any employer can easily copy the link, if interested.
Alternatively you can burn your video CV on a DVD and send it by post to your selected employers. When you mail it be sure you include your paper CV too and a cover letter where you mention what has been included.
