Funky job application trick

Video covering letters?

In any job market, standing out is always a good thing. Employers get hundreds of CV’s and job applications, so if yours catches their attention by being a bit different, your chances of getting an interview go way up. The latest new funky job application trick is video cover letters. They are basically what it says on the tin; instead of being a written cover letter, they are a video of the prospective employee.

Why make a cover video?

The employer can see you in action.
The employer can make more of a connection with you.
A video will show how up to speed you are with modern technology.
The video can be used on your social networks such as Facebook and Twitter; thus getting your profile out there even more.
A cover video demonstrates creative abilities.
Since a cover video makes you stand out, you will have a higher likelihood of getting an interview.

Here are SpunOut’s top tips for making a cover video:

Make sure you are dressed for the part and jazz yourself up for the video. The usual interview rules of smart clothes, subtle makeup and cleanliness apply.
Don’t drone on too long. Keep your video short, sharp and snappy. One to three minutes is where it is at.
Make sure you are in a quiet place and that there is no background noise.
Practise what you are going to say in advance.
Look directly into the camera.
Speak clearly and at a moderate pace. Don’t speak too fast.
Mention your name at the start and at the end of the video.
Thank the employer at the end of the video.

Where to share your video:

You can upload your video to the usual social networking websites like Facebook and Twitter.
You can also upload to websites such as CareerBuilder, Jobster and MyWorkster.

Check out this sample video: