Make sure you’ve got enough light for your camera…

No one wants to listen to an audio book accompanied by a black video screen. This is your chance to look employers in the eye and convince them that you are the person for the job—but they have to see you first.

…But not too much.

Same as above, but substitute the words “wash-ed out white video screen” for “black video screen”.

Watch your audio levels.

Don’t be so quiet you’re only a mumble, but don’t go blasting out of the speakers either. Listen to your video resume before you upload it to make sure that your speech is constantly clear and audible

Easy there, Scorcese!

Many video editing packages have a large number of wipes, fades, and other special effects. While livening things up a little is a good thing, a light hand is needed. Ten different transitions in six seconds will likely leave employers disoriented more than dazzled.

KISS: Keep It Short & Simple.

Two minutes is enough. Yes, really.

Get off to a good start.

”Hi, my name is _____ and I’m looking for a job in _____” That’s vital information and needs stating early on, but find a more interesting way to do that than sitting at a desk in your home.

Make it about more than your paper resume.

Employers can read, after all. It’s not like you need to read your resume to them. Instead, take advantage of your video to show everyone who stops to look at your resume something unique and valuable about you. Maybe there’s a couple choices off the list of common interview questions that you would like to answer. Showcase a hobby or sport you enjoy. Find a way to make yourself memorable to employers—in a good way.

Practice your video…

Write outlines on notecards, practice what you’re going to say, shoot a couple of takes and then keep the best one. This is your interview with anyone who stops by to look at your resume. Make sure that you’re looking your best.

…But you gotta sound natural.

While you have make sure that you practice your presentation on the video enough that it looks polished, you also need to sound natural and not like you’re reading cue cards held off-camera by a buddy of yours. Even if you are actually reading cue cards held off-camera by a buddy of yours.

Dress appropriately.

Filming your video resume un a tank top or shirtless will not impress. Wear business casual or business formal, depending on if you’re interviewing for a job in Silicon Valley or at a bank.

Pay attention to what’s behind you.

You may have gotten used to the Black Sabbath and Marilyn Manson posters on your bedroom wall, but that might be a bit off-putting to employers. Also be on the lookout for reflections of your friends making faces at you to distract you or odd happenings outside your window.

Put the camera down.

Unless you’re filming with a thousand-dollar SteadiCam rig, put the camera somewhere stationary for filming your resume. No one wants to get motion sick while watching your video.

Got any suggestions?

You have any wisdom to share here? Think you have a tip that’s a sure-fire winner and you’d like to pass it on? Mail it info@jobmatchpro.com and it just might make it up here.