Video resume: when it helps, and how to make a short one well.
A video resume is a short recording that introduces you. For some roles, such as presenting, sales, teaching or creative work, it shows something paper cannot. For most others it is optional, and it never replaces a written resume.
Make a video resume only if the employer asks for one or the role depends on how you come across on camera. Keep it short, around one to two minutes, with a simple structure: who you are, two pieces of evidence, why this role, and a close. Film in good light with clear sound, and always send a normal written resume as well.
How to make one
- Check whether it is wanted. If the posting asks for video, follow its instructions on length and format.
- Write a short outline. Introduction, two examples with results, why this job, close. Do not read a script word for word.
- Set up simply. A quiet room, light facing you, the camera at eye level and a plain background.
- Record several takes. Pick the most natural one, not the most polished.
- Keep it short. One to two minutes is enough to make an impression.
- Share it properly. Upload where the employer asks, or share a link that does not need a login.
Illustrative examples to adapt
Illustrative: every name, employer, school, date and number in these samples is fictional or a bracketed placeholder. Replace each bracket with your own true details; never copy a result you did not achieve.
Video outline
When to use: Planning a one-to-two-minute recording.
Opening: Hi, I'm [your name], a [job title] with [number] years of [type of work]. Evidence one: At [Employer], I [what you did], which [result you can prove]. Evidence two: I also [second example], [result]. Why this role: I'm applying to [Employer] because [specific reason tied to the posting]. Close: Thank you for watching. My written resume and contact details are [where].
Message to send with the link
When to use: Emailing a video resume an employer requested.
Dear [Hiring manager's name], As requested, here is my video introduction for the [job title] role: [link]. My written resume is attached as well. Thank you for your time, [Your name]
Disclosure: TryHired makes HIRED, a paid job-search program, so we have a conflict of interest when we mention it. Every sample on this page is free to use without buying anything.
Should you make a video resume?
| Situation | Make one? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| The employer asks for one | Yes | Follow their format exactly. |
| Presenting, sales or teaching role | Optional, can help | Shows how you communicate. |
| Creative or media role | Optional | A portfolio may serve better. |
| Most office or technical roles | Usually not | The written resume carries the evidence. |
| Applications through a strict online system | No | There may be nowhere to put it. |
| You are uncomfortable on camera | Not required | A strong written application is enough. |
The same line, rewritten
Illustrative example with placeholders.
| Version | Example |
|---|---|
| Weak | A five-minute unedited recording reading your resume aloud. |
| Strong | A short recording with an introduction, two specific examples with results, a reason for this role and a close, filmed in good light. |
Why it matters: Reading your resume aloud wastes the format. A short, specific introduction shows what paper cannot: how you explain things.
Before you send it
- The employer wants or would welcome a video.
- It is around one to two minutes.
- It includes two specific examples.
- Light and sound are clear.
- The link works without a login.
- A written resume is attached as well.
Mistakes to avoid
- Sending a video instead of a written resume.
- Reading from a script or the resume itself.
- Recording in poor light or with background noise.
- Going far beyond two minutes.
- Sharing a link the employer cannot open.
Build yours
Questions people ask
What is a video resume?
Do employers want video resumes?
How long should a video resume be?
What should I say in a video resume?
How this page is built
Written by Maid Dizdarevic, a career coach and 8x LinkedIn Top Voice. Advice is labelled as advice. Every sample uses a fictional person marked '(illustrative)' or a 'Your name' placeholder, and every employer, school, date and result is a bracketed placeholder for your own true details.
- What a specific employer screens for: always read the posting.
- Your results: we never invent numbers, and you should never copy a result you did not achieve.
- Outcomes: no resume, letter, profile or program can promise an interview or a job.
- TryHired editorial guidance by Maid Dizdarevic, career coach, Nov 4, 2026.