There seems to have been some movement again in the video CV circles, with candidates seemingly trying to differentiate themselves from the competition, by using video to do so. While I certainly don't blame them for that, in my opinion, this could actually cause more of a barrier to getting an interview than not using one.
There are some examples where they do work, but I think it is only because they capture the imagination of the media, and therefore get publicity. Here is a tongue in cheek Video CV that actually worked for this French chef. It worked for him because it was so different, and it even got picked up by national TV stations - he found a job.
While this is amusing, and was successful for him, in my opinion, video CV's should be left in the video camera!! Yes of course there is a place for video in the recruitment process, but not in the form of CV's, and companies are now using it on many career sites to act as an information and attraction tool.
My inspiration for this controversial subject, came from @lisascales. She decided to walk into the lions den of debate on Twitter by asking the question, " Is the UK staffing industry ready for video CVs?"
My immediate response was no, no and no again - swiftly followed by some others feeling the same way. I thought for a moment I was being a little harsh, but now I have thought about it, I still feel the same way.
The UK is not a market that is ready for video CV's. As a nation we tend to be a reserved bunch, and anything to do with images - including putting photos on your CV - is a concept that is a step too far for many candidates and probably most companies.
But for me this raises a bigger issue. Prejudice.
As a 'seasoned recruiter', I have unfortunately seen too many instances of bias, prejudice, sexism and ageism against candidates otherwise well qualified to do jobs. This is even without a photo or a video being involved! There are already too many 'perceived barriers' in the job market, which is just being made worse by the current recession.
Companies need little excuse to reject candidates at the moment, and a poorly made video (and even well made ones) will do the candidates no favour in presenting them to companies. As an example, have a look at this serious video of Frank Carey below.
He says he doesn't understand how this video didn't work ...."but I do I got lots of views and only one interested employer. I think the problem is the the lack of marketing on my part"
No Frank, it might be the 30 second intro and the boring content that has got somthing to do with it!!
What do you think? Do you agree with video CV's? Do you agree with me that they should stay firmly in the video camera?
