When you’re applying for jobs, some organisations or jobs might request you to submit a video application. They can also be part of scholarship or other university program applications. Or you might decide to break the mould and create a video application of your own to stand out from the crowd.
Whatever the reason, if you need to submit a video application, here are some tips that you may find useful:
Be prepared
Do your research and write a “script” of what you’d like to say. Winging it generally won’t get you the job, so make sure you at least have an outline to guide you during filming.
Practise
Your video will have most impact if you look confident and natural. Which is going to require practise (the good news is each time you do it, it will feel less alien and cringey).
Ask someone else to listen to you or watch your pre-recordings for tips on how you could come across more professionally and at ease.
Get creative
Don’t just read your resume out line by line – you’ll probably be submitting that along with your video anyway. This is your chance to really showcase your personality and talk in a bit more detail about your strengths.
Have the technical side organised
Decide how you’ll record the video and make sure you know how everything works and that it’s all charged and ready to go. Know how to edit and submit your video file, and double check the size and length of the video to make sure it can either be uploaded or attached to an email.
Ask for help if you need it from family, friends, or your school IT teacher.
Scout the best location
Choose a quiet, clean, location with a neutral background which looks professional (no piles of laundry or dirty dishes in the background). Good lighting is important, as is a location where you can shut out any unwanted interruptions (siblings, pets, etc).
Look the part
Treat this like an interview as well as an application. First impressions do count, so make sure you look professional, well groomed and smart (even if you have trackie pants and thongs on under the desk).
Things to include
Start with a greeting and a brief introduction about yourself – include your name and the job you’re applying for.
Go on to provide a brief, clear summary of yours qualification, skills, and experience. Explain why you’re interested in the role and why you’ll be a great fit for the role.
Let them know about any relevant achievements, share a few hobbies or interests that could connect with the job or organisation.
Keep it brief and stick to any stated time limit. Be confident and enthusiastic, check your posture and body language, smile and be friendly (but avoid being overly casual or using slang).
Need more help with getting a job?
Find out how to get prepared for the world of work, get tips on finding opportunities, acing interviews and more, in the Getting a Job Guide.
