How to Create an Effective Video Resume
Digital technology has transformed everyday life, including how candidates apply for a new role. A video resume is a great way to stand out in a competitive job market, allowing job seekers to innovatively showcase their personality, creativity, and skills.
Remote and hybrid working is also becoming more common, with 28% of US jobs now fully remote and more than half (51%) operating in a hybrid fashion in 2025, according to a recent Gallup poll. The same Gallup study showed that 59% of job candidates believed video resumes would soon become the new norm, and that 41% of applicants were already using video resumes to help them stand out to hiring managers and recruiters.
So, encouraging video resumes could make your listing stand out and allow those who really want to succeed in your business a chance to shine. After all, it requires a little extra effort, so only committed candidates are likely to take on the challenge.
In this guide, we’ve considered what makes a good video resume, what candidates need to create one and why they’re great for HR and recruitment teams.
What is a video resume?
A video resume is an audio-visual version of a traditional resume that a candidate can use to showcase their skills to a recruiter or hiring manager. It should be used to enhance—not replace—the resume and cover letter.
During the recording, the candidate should outline their professional experience and qualifications, while showcasing their personality and highlighting why they’re the right person for the role. Resume videos usually last between 30 seconds and two minutes, which should be plenty of time for an applicant to outline why they’re a suitable for the role.
Can a video resume replace a traditional resume?
No, a video resume doesn’t replace a traditional resume and you should ask for it as supporting evidence. It’s used to supplement an application and showcase additional skills and creativity.
When do you need a video resume?
A video resume is not a requirement, nor is it a replacement for a written resume. However, there are various situations in which a resume video could be that extra push you need to get prime candidates to apply for the role you’re hiring for.
These include:
- Hiring for a role in a creative industry. Here you can ask for a video resume so candidates can showcase their creativity in ways that might not come across in writing.
- Hiring for a role in a highly competitive industry. Making a video resume could be the thing that helps certain candidates stand out from the crowd.
- Hiring for a role where video-making skills might be valued. Applicants can add value to their application by highlighting those skills from the offset.
How to make a video resume
The process of creating a video resume is slightly more complex than it is for a standard resume. But don’t worry, with the right advice it’s easy to create an impressive production.
Share these tips with candidates to enhance their experience and help them create a resume video that’ll knock your socks off:
1. Draft a script
To create a script, the candidate will need to research the company, review the role, and go over their resume to identify the areas they’d like to discuss. Recommend that they come up with a cohesive structure to ensure the video flows well and keeps the viewer engaged. For example, they could introduce themself, then discuss their qualifications, experience and skills. Encourage the use of strong action verbs in their speech, as these tend to have the greatest impact.
2. Select a suitable space to record
Highlight the need for a space with a neutral background and suitable lighting. Note that the environment needs to be quiet and free of background noise to prevent distractions or interruptions to their narration.
3. Practice delivery
Recommend that the candidate take some time to rehearse their script and video sequence. Depending on the length, they can rehearse in sections or tackle it as a complete piece. They could use different expressions and tones of voice and try to appear comfortable and engaged.
5. Record and edit the video
After they’ve prepared their script, recording device, lighting, and practiced their delivery, it’s time for the candidate to create their video resume. Encourage them to record it as practiced, then get to work editing. Note that the candidate will want to make sure to touch it up just enough to provide a polished video resume, but not so much that it comes across as fake or questionable.
Candidates should now have an impressive video resume to send in response to your job listing to impress you with their creative skills. Specify that the format must be easily accessible and shareable, and for the candidate to send it alongside their standard resume and cover letter.
Tools you can use to create a video resume
There are multiple software and editing tools out there that you can recommend candidates use to create a video resume that looks polished and professional. Some of these are free to use, others have an initial cost, and some will let you access basic tools for free but with a premium for more advanced tools. The software that’s right for you will depend on your level of experience with video editing, the type of role being applied for, and of course budget.
- Canva: A free and simple-to-use online software package for video editing. You will need to create an account, but this is free and easy to do. Download templates to get started, then customise them to create a video resume that is tailored towards the role you are applying for.
- Clipchamp: Operating a tiered system of accounts, you can access basic-level video editing for free. This includes access to core editing tools and some stock media. You can also choose to upgrade to premium from $99.99 per year for a personal account, or $129.99 per year for a family plan for up to six people. You can create a professional looking video resume without a premium plan, as it includes access to the webcam recorder, basic effects and AI editing tools.
- VEED.io: A top-level AI video editing suite with a range of price points to suit all budgets. The Lite package is just $12 per month with access to Gen AI Studio to create up to five videos per day. The Pro package costs $25 per month, and includes advanced features such as 4K Ultra HD Exports, text-to-speech, voice dubbing, and translation into over 50 languages. As a bonus, you can access basic video resume making tools online completely free, no software or account required!
- Kickresume: Offering a tiered package including a basic tier for free, Kickresume is a great resource for downloadable templates to help get you started making your next resume video. Start with your chosen template and script, then use the AI tools to customise until you have the result you want. If you need a more professional looking video resume, the premium packages start at just $8 per month.
- Adobe Premiere Pro: For a truly polished and professional video resume, you might want to consider paying a little more. Adobe Premiere Pro is an industry-leading provider of advanced video editing software, with a comprehensive package of tools to help you ensure your video resume will stand out from the crowd. Premiere Pro currently costs $22.99 per month for individuals, rising to $69.99 per month if you want Creative Cloud Pro.
Video resumes: Giving a competitive edge in job applications
Although not necessary for all roles, a video resume can supplement your job applications. Whether you want candidates to showcase your skills or just make their applications more personal, video resumes can help you find top talent.
Once those applications start rolling in, you’ll need to book in a chat with those you want to learn more about, take some time to brush up your video interview skills beforehand to enhance their applicant experience.