There is an emerging trend among Web 2.0 specialists for presentation of their qualifications; the video resume. There are some evident pros and cons for this type of resume, as well as some resistance from HR professionals. For those candidates considering a video resume, especially for those in the social media field, my suggestion is to research, prepare and most of all have the ability to recognize if this isn’t for you.

Before deciding if a video resume is the way to go, consider these points:

Research:
Make sure you know the proper etiquette. Don’t just wing it. View other video resumes and decide what you like and don’t like about them.

Prepare:
The best approach is to be prepared with what you will say and present on camera. This type of “resume” will likely take you a few tries to get right. You don’t want to be too animated, however, you don’t want to look like a deer in the headlights either. Practice, if you have to. Have an “interviewer” if that makes you more comfortable. The video should be ideally 3 minutes or less and be well edited. You may have to hire someone to edit and/or record your video if you don’t have the right equipment or skills. This is generally not very expensive and a good investment if you plan to use a video resume. You should be dressed as if you are interviewing and good lighting and sound is a must. Most of all, have the ability to recognize if the video resume doesn’t do you justice. If you don’t think it’s a good representation of your true personality and communication abilities, then don’t do it – and most importantly, don’t send it!

The video resume can be a very useful tool in presenting your qualifications in a unique way. They do not replace a paper resume in my opinion, but are a great follow up and/or addition.

Further, video resumes allow you to showcase communication skills and personality; an essential component of most jobs – especially in Web 2.0 or Social Media environments, Public Relations, etc. For recruiters that work the national market or multiple locations, a video resume can be a great supplement to the phone interview. Having the ability to “see” the candidate before you present them to your hiring manager is important.

Confidential to HR Personnel: Consider that video resumes are not a means for finding a “barbie doll candidate”, but rather a precursor to an in-person interview. If a candidate sends a video resume that isn’t concise, well edited and planned – then I think that’s a good indicator of their overall abilities. Don’t lament about how you don’t have the time to sit through 20 minute videos. You’ll likely know in the first 30 seconds if it’s worth watching – about the same time it takes to review a resume and decide if you want to continue reading. I’ve listened to opposition from some HR folks warning of potential law suits, claiming it encourages discrimination. Let me ask you, how is it any different than interviewing someone in person? The same person that would hire someone based on how they look will do so regardless of the source, be that video or face to face interview.

Bottom line: It’s not for everyone. Doing your research and preparation is important in determining if this is the path for you, regardless if you are HR, the hiring manager or the candidate.