Video business card - the format of the future or a trendy whim?

Why does the video format work?

Because time is a luxury! It's important for an employer not just to read a resume but to immediately see who is in front of them, how the person speaks, how they carry themselves, how confident and interested they are. This saves hours, sometimes even days.

Video immediately shows - verbal and non-verbal communication, speech, facial expressions, voice, confidence, tact, warmth, and things that cannot be captured from a CV PDF document.

Where are video résumés especially in demand?

- The hospitality industry and service sector;

- Creative industries: design, marketing, PR;

- High-level domestic staff;

- Sales, retail, service;

- Show business, actors, models, hosts;

- Executives' assistants.

In many European countries, video résumés have long ceased to be a trend and have become a professional standard. In our agency, we have been using this format since the 2000s and see how it helps strong candidates receive better offers.

And now a bit of realism - who doesn't need video. Yes, yes, you heard it right. This format is not mandatory for everyone!

If you are an engineer, accountant, programmer, chef - your portfolio and experience are more important than video. If you are not confident, afraid of the camera, or do not want to be seen, no one will force you. And a good textual CV can also work.

But!

If you... are looking for a job with people, want to stand out in competition, building a career in the service industry - a video résumé is your chance!

But there are video interviews!?..

Yes. More and more companies today are conducting interviews, video interviews, both spontaneous and via Zoom or Teams. It's convenient. Fast. Effective. But! 

Video interviews are a step after you have been selected. 

Whereas a video résumé is a way to get on the list of those who will be chosen! 

Do you feel the difference?

How to record a strong video résumé? Here’s a brief checklist:

1. Background: either a solid wall or a cozy neutral interior. No unnecessary visual noise. 

2. Light: face towards the window or a soft lamp. No shadows. We want to see you.

3. Sound: eliminate noise, close the window, turn off notifications.

4. Text: don't read! Speak naturally from the heart, as if answering the question “tell us a little about yourself”.

5. Duration: 1.5–2 minutes. This is not a movie - it's a presentation.

6. Tone: do not advertise yourself. Be alive. Genuine. Human.

7. Posture and gaze: Sit up straight but relaxed. The camera at eye level or slightly above. Look not down or sideways, but directly into the lens, as if communicating with a person. 

A video résumé is not about “appearing better”, but about “appearing real”. A good video is not about gloss, filters, or rehearsed phrases. It’s you in the moment, confident, open, honest. And this is what grabs the employer's attention.

Want to try but don’t know how?

I ask my candidates every day to record a video résumé. Because it works. 

Create your first (or best!) video and be surprised at how professionally and strongly you appear from the outside.