Como hacer un video curriculum: Why Not Add a Dancing Cat?

Creating a video curriculum, or a video resume, is an innovative way to showcase your skills, personality, and professionalism to potential employers. In today’s digital age, where attention spans are short and competition is fierce, a video curriculum can set you apart from the crowd. But how do you create one that stands out? And why not throw in a dancing cat for good measure? Let’s dive into the details.

1. Understand the Purpose of a Video Curriculum

A video curriculum is not just a replacement for a traditional resume; it’s a supplement. It allows you to present yourself in a more dynamic and engaging way. The goal is to highlight your key skills, experiences, and personality traits that make you the ideal candidate for the job. Think of it as your personal elevator pitch, but with visuals and sound.

2. Plan Your Content

Before you start recording, plan what you want to say. Outline the key points you want to cover, such as:

• Introduction: Who you are and what you’re looking for.
• Professional Experience: Highlight your most relevant jobs and achievements.
• Skills: Showcase your technical and soft skills.
• Education: Briefly mention your educational background.
• Conclusion: End with a strong call to action, such as inviting the employer to contact you for an interview.

3. Keep It Concise

Aim for a video that’s between 1 to 2 minutes long. Employers don’t have time to watch a lengthy video, so make every second count. Be clear, concise, and to the point.

4. Choose the Right Setting

Your background matters. Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a neutral or professional background. Avoid clutter or distractions. If you’re feeling creative, you could even use a green screen to add a custom background, but keep it professional.

5. Dress Professionally

First impressions matter. Dress as you would for an in-person interview. This shows that you take the opportunity seriously and are professional.

6. Use Good Equipment

You don’t need a professional camera, but you should use a decent smartphone or webcam with good resolution. Ensure your audio is clear—consider using an external microphone if necessary. Poor video or audio quality can detract from your message.

7. Practice Your Delivery

Practice your script multiple times before recording. Speak clearly, maintain good eye contact with the camera, and use a confident tone. Avoid reading directly from a script; instead, use bullet points to guide you.

8. Edit Your Video

Once you’ve recorded your video, edit it to remove any mistakes or awkward pauses. You can use free or paid video editing software to add titles, transitions, or even background music. Just make sure the music is subtle and doesn’t overpower your voice.

9. Add a Personal Touch

This is where you can let your personality shine. Share a brief personal story or hobby that relates to the job or shows your enthusiasm for the industry. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not include a short clip of your dancing cat? It could be a memorable way to show your creativity and sense of humor.

10. Include a Call to Action

End your video by inviting the employer to contact you for an interview. Provide your contact information and thank them for their time. You could also include a link to your LinkedIn profile or online portfolio.

11. Test and Share

Before sending your video curriculum, test it on different devices to ensure it plays correctly. Once you’re satisfied, upload it to a platform like YouTube or Vimeo, and share the link with potential employers. You can also include the link in your email signature or on your LinkedIn profile.

12. Follow Up

After sending your video curriculum, follow up with a polite email to ensure the employer received it and to express your continued interest in the position.

FAQs

Q: How long should my video curriculum be? A: Ideally, your video curriculum should be between 1 to 2 minutes long. Any longer, and you risk losing the employer’s attention.

Q: Can I include humor in my video curriculum? A: Yes, but use it sparingly and make sure it’s appropriate for the industry and company culture. A well-placed joke or a creative element (like a dancing cat) can make you memorable, but don’t overdo it.

Q: What if I’m not comfortable on camera? A: Practice makes perfect. Record yourself multiple times until you feel more comfortable. You can also ask a friend or family member to give you feedback.

Q: Should I include my entire work history in the video? A: No, focus on the most relevant experiences and skills that align with the job you’re applying for. You can provide more details in your traditional resume.

Q: Can I use a video curriculum for any job? A: While video curricula are more common in creative fields, they can be used for any job as long as they are professional and relevant to the position. However, always consider the company culture and industry norms before deciding to use one.