YouTube is a platform that is fast becoming a huge tool for recruiters, hiring managers and job seekers.  There are many different ways this tool is being utilized.  The days of YouTube just being a collection of Funniest Home Videos are over.  Here are a couple examples of how video is being used in the job market.

Video Resumes – Yes, people are making video resumes and spreading the link all over social media.  While I wouldn’t recommend simply posting a video resume to YouTube because no recruiter is going to take the time to search for a candidate there, it can be effective if included as an additional link like an email address on ALL correspondence with your organization of choice – emails, cover letters, paper resumes. 

A video resume should be short, a minute or two, and should be explain your background in a story-like fashion.  It should also specify why you are the best person for this job and what value you would bring to this organization with the skills you possess.  In other words, the most effective video resume is one that is tailored to a specific job and organization just like a hard copy resume.  You should only do this if you have a lively and outgoing personality.  If you don’t think you could be comfortable enough to be engaging, don’t do it.  Remember the goal is for this to help you, not hurt you.  It is simple to upload and because you are in control of when it is uploaded, you can try it many times until you are happy with results before you choose to post it.  This should be one piece of an overall marketing plan, but if you can create a good one it will really set you apart in the job market.

Recruiting Videos – Many companies are using YouTube to create recruiting videos.  As you are targeting organizations you may like to work for, do some searching.  Search YouTube using the name of the company and other keywords such as recruiting, employment, or careers.  You will find videos on job opportunities, interviewing, working at a company, company culture, and benefits.

Video Interviews – Many companies are beginning to use video interviews.  Here is an example of the process:

• The company selects candidates for video interviews.
• Arrangements for an interview are scheduled – either at a company office, an off-site location with a webcam setup, or via a webcam sent to the applicant.
• A tutorial will provide instructions on the webcam and the interview.
• There will be 10 – 15 questions related to the job the company is hiring for.
• The applicant will have 30 seconds to read the question and two minutes to respond.

Here are suggestions for how to prepare for a video interview:

• Review all the instructions. Ask for help (which is typically available online or by telephone) if you’re not sure how the webcam works or if you have questions.
• Follow the directions.
• Dress appropriately in professional interview attire, just like you would for an in-person interview.
• Practice – if you have a webcam, record yourself to see how you appear on camera.
• Be aware of your surroundings and the lighting.
• Look at the camera, not down at the desk or table.

In short, treat this exactly the same way you would an in person interview.

Video in the job search allows you to be creative.  It also allows you an inside peek at what it might be like to work for a particular organization. 

Have you had an opportunity to use video in your search?  As an HR professional, has your organization invested in creating corporate videos to show your culture?  Has it been an effective interviewing tool?