How to Create an Effective Job Interview Video
One of the newest trends in the job market is to send video applications to prospective employers. This is an especially good idea if you are applying for a high profile job in another location than the one where you are. That way, the company will have a better idea of whether or not you are a good fit before calling you in to interview in person. There are some ways to create an effective job interview video, and some things to avoid. For example, there is a notorious application video that’s been circulating the Web that you might have seen or heard of which is a prime example of what not to do.
A man named Aleksey Vayner sent a video entitled ‘Impossible is Nothing’ to a variety of different companies including Wachovia, JP Morgan, Credit Suisse and a slew of other Wall Street giants. Enclosed with the video was an 11-page CV which outlined Vayner’s supposed extensive experience in the world of international finance. The real shocker, however, was not the 11 page CV but the application video. During the video, Vayner is shown lifting heavy weights, karate chopping blocks in half, and ballroom dancing with a beautiful woman. Rather than achieving its desired effect of landing the applicant a job, it made him a laughingstock all over the Internet.
The lesson here is less is more. When making an application video, don’t go overboard with fancy visual or audio effects. Don’t create elaborate skits or try to be an actor. What you want to do is communicate your qualifications and let your personality and professionalism shine through on camera. Wear a conservative, camera friendly ensemble. Experiment with different makeup applications to make yourself look as camera friendly as possible without looking like you’re wearing makeup. Even men can benefit from a dab of shine reducing powder before going in front of the camera. Choose a setting that is pleasant and attractive but doesn’t distract from your message. A clean, organized, conservatively decorated office often makes an ideal backdrop.
When you make your job interview video, introduce yourself then go on to outline why you want the job you are applying for and why you feel you are an ideal candidate. It may take some practice before you are satisfied with the results. Many people find that talking to a camera feels unnatural, but gets easier with practice. If you are able to make a professional and engaging application video, it tells the company something about you. It tells them that you are confident, creative, personable and multitalented. And that certainly can’t hurt when applying for the job of your dreams!
