An emerging method in job applications is to submit video cover letters rather than in the traditional written form. This provides an opportunity to express personality, creativity, and individuality while leaving a lasting first impression. In this article, we’ve presented tips on how to create a video cover letter that makes an impact.
Tips for Delivery
Video cover letters provide a chance to authentically portray individuals’ characters in a concise yet engaging manner that is relevant to the role and company. If it’s a casual, customer-facing role, displaying humor and lightness could be appropriate, while an executive position at a global tech company may benefit from a more matter-of-fact delivery.
Maintain eye contact with the camera lens and speak in a slow, steady, and clear manner. Tone is also important, so aim to come across as friendly and enthusiastic about the position. Consider the approach used by YouTube's popular live streamers or the customer-facing UK live casino table game dealers. These hosts provide direct delivery that is engaging, rehearsed, and professional. Whether guiding viewers through blackjack, roulette or the vast collection of casino games on offer, the tone is light and consistent with the content they are offering. Applications for digital positions such as this would especially benefit from a video cover letter.
Prepare and Structure the Content
Although it may be tempting to submit a video with stream-of-consciousness delivery, this defeats the purpose of a video cover letter. It’s best to take time to plan the structure of the video, beginning with an introduction and details of professional experience. Candidates should then express why they have the hard skills and desired soft skills recruiters look for.
Keep in mind that the content shouldn’t be a rehashing of what is covered in the resume. Instead, it’s an opportunity to fill in any gaps of information. For example, an achievement listed in the resume could be contextualized with an anecdote. What’s important is that it’s all laid out in a script.
Aim to keep the video between one and two minutes in length, which should be around 150 - 300 words of written content. If it’s easier to memorize portions of the script at a time, don’t hesitate to record in sections and edit them together. Cuts can be hidden with graphics or photographs that are relevant to the piece, so consider sourcing these.
The Importance of Professional Presentation
Before creating the video cover letter, candidates should be aware of the importance of professional presentation. While crafting considered content is integral to success, submitting a video with clear audio and attractive visuals will go a long way to providing a satisfying viewing experience. When recording, use a high-quality recording device and edit the video to maintain pace.
Professional presentation has been integral to the recent online streaming boom, and viewers are now used to a certain level of quality. When it comes to editing, consider free, feature-rich video editing software such as Da Vinci Resolve for a professional final product.
Crafting a video cover letter may take some more effort than a traditional cover letter, but it communicates a dedication that can make candidates stand out. With professional presentation, careful planning, and considered delivery, job-seekers can authentically represent their best qualities.
