Video Killed the Resume Star?

There was an interesting article in Monday's New York Post on the topic of video resumes -- touching on the fact that though they've been plugged as the next BIG thing in recruiting, they really haven't gained much traction with employers.

The article, "Trailing Paper," includes contributions from industry experts (including our own Jenny Floren) and outlines three primary obstacles to video resumes: discrimination concerns; inefficiency issues; and poor performance on behalf of the candidates in the videos themselves.

In the story, one college career services professional offers his viewpoint: "I've had no employer ask for a video resume, nor have any of my students asked for that service. It sounds like hype to me." Another expert suggests just the opposite, indicating that video resumes will take off very quickly with Gen Y entering the workforce and today's tweens following them relatively shortly thereafter.

Personally, in my line of work (marketing), I think video resumes are a bad idea. My biggest issue isn't with discrimination possibilities or it being a timely exercise for recruiters -- it's with the whole notion of what's appropriate. If the video isn't as polished and professional as possible, credibility (and the candidate's chances) immediately goes out the door. And if it's really bad, it could potentially wind up on YouTube as a lesson in what NOT to do. Ever hear of the Yale student who in all seriousness submitted a video resume to an investment bank? In addition to touting his financial strengths, the video included him performing karate, playing tennis and engaging in deep philosophical discussion. It fast became the joke of Wall Street.

What do you think?

Photo by slushpup