Visual and Video Resumes

My Career was recently approached by a company who designs and creates visual online resumes for job seekers.  I checked out their website and some examples, and to be honest, I was completely overwhelmed.   I am part of “Generation Y”, completely comfortable with Web 2.0 and technology in general, so I could not imagine how some0ne a little older, who is not comfortable with this technology may feel. However, this website really got me thinking…is this where the job search is headed?  Is EVERYTHING going digital?  Are online visual and video resumes going to be the norm for job seekers in a few years time?

While there are some times when an online portfolio or video resume may be a good idea, I am not completely sold on the idea.  I have come up with a a list of pros and cons, and would love to hear feedback.  Has a visual or video resume worked for you?  Are you a recruiter who prefers this method of application?  Or, do you still think that the plain old resume is still the best method for applying for jobs?

I think that an online, visual profile, resume or even a video resume may be a good idea for some professions.  For example, if you are in the film, fashion, design or art industry, this may be a good way to stand out from your competition.  Having the ability to post your past successes online allows the employer to see what you are capable of doing before they invite you in for an interview.

However, I don’t believe that for most other professions this would be an effective route to take.  I think that it could actually be more detrimental than helpful for your job search.  Unless you are applying for modelling or acting jobs, you NEVER submit a photo with your application (at least in North America).  And there are reasons for this, most obviously, discrimination based on age, race and overall looks.  Having an online portfolio or video resume puts you and your face as the first thing recruiters see.

Secondly, as I already mentioned, while you may be up to date with the latest technology and online phenomenon, the hiring manager or recruiter may not be.  When they receive the weblink or video, they may not be able to open it, and your application will be lost.

While having a professional looking and sounding resume can be accomplished with help from a career counsellor, or even the internet, having a professional looking and sounding video resume is another story.  Some professionals are reporting spending thousands of dollars on their video resumes!  This is often not something you can do by yourself, unless you know how to shoot and edit your own videos.

Lastly, we all know (at least you should now) that you need to cater your resume and cover letter for each specific job you apply for.  Are you willing to create a new video or visual resume for each and every job you apply for?  Think about how time consuming that would be…it is already a full time job searching for a job.  Does this mean it will be like having 2 jobs?

Personally, I would much rather receive a written resume.  This allows me to read the applicants qualifications, experience and education.  It also allows me to judge their writing abilities, and have the resume in front of me when interviewing.  These are my thoughts, but I would love to hear what others think.