Why Adding a Video Resume Can Boost Your Job Chances in 2026
Discover how a short video introduction can showcase your personality, highlight your skills, and help you stand out in a crowded job market.
Normally, a resume should be enough to speak for us before we even get in the room. And while that makes sense, the reality is that most resumes end up looking and sounding very similar. So the real challenge becomes: how do you stand out when everyone is presenting themselves in almost the exact same way?
That’s where video resumes make a difference. When you complement your text-based resume with a short video introduction, you’re showing how you think, how you communicate, and the kind of presence you bring. It gives a clearer sense of who you are, which is something text alone can’t really capture.
At the same time, interviewers don’t have to schedule multiple calls or wait through long screening rounds just to decide whether someone is worth moving forward. A one-minute video gives them that clarity early. It saves time on both ends and makes the process smoother.
David Adubiina
What a Video Resume Is (and What Makes It Different)
A video resume is a short recorded introduction where you talk through who you are, the kind of work you’ve done, and the value you bring. You can think of it as a summary of your resume, that is spoken, and with the advantage of tone, presence, and personality.
It is a stark contrast to a normal resume, where you are unable to express yourself because it relies on words on a page, listing facts that are useful but limited. Everyone can say they have “strong communication skills” or that they’re “detail-oriented.” On paper, these claims are easy to write and even easier to exaggerate. In a video, you actually show them.
Why You Need One
Let’s be honest. Not everyone has years of stacked experience or a resume filled with big-name companies. And even if you do, tailoring your resume for every single job can feel like a full-time job on its own. Most people end up sending out the same version over and over, hoping something lands.
A video resume cuts through all of that. In under 90 seconds, you can show what your resume can’t say. Your voice. Your confidence. Your clarity of thought. The way you explain what you’ve worked on and why it matters. These are the things employers pay attention to once you get in the room — and a video lets them see it upfront.
It also works in your favor when you don’t have a long list of experience yet. You may not have five internships or three certifications, but you can show that you’re thoughtful, willing to learn, and able to express your ideas. That in itself is valuable.
Tips to Create a Video Resume
You don't need to have great editing or scripting skills before you can make a good video resume that gets you noticed. For most of it, what you need is clarity, authenticity, and making every second count. Here’s a simple structure you can follow that fits into roughly 90 seconds:
1. Intro (10 seconds)
Here, you want to start with your name and the role you’re applying for. Keep it confident but natural, imagine you’re greeting someone in a meeting for the first time. Then give a one-line “why” and a quick hint of what drives you or what excites you about this opportunity. For example, instead of just saying “I like marketing,” you could say, “I love helping brands tell stories that connect with people.”
2. Your “Why” (20 seconds)
After your intro, you want to explain why this role or company excites you. Hiring managers want to see that you’ve thought about the job and that you’re genuinely interested. Keep it short and specific. Instead of generic statements, mention one thing about the company or industry that resonates with you. This shows you’ve done your homework and helps you stand out.
3. Your Story (30 seconds)
Pick one story that demonstrates your adaptability, problem-solving skills, or creativity. It could be a project you led, a challenge you overcame, or a unique solution you brought to the table. The key here is to show impact: what was the situation, what did you do, and what changed because of it? Keep it concise and focused — this is your chance to bring your resume to life.
4. Skills Match (20 seconds)
Highlight a few skills you’ve developed that directly relate to the role. Don’t just list them — give a tiny example of how you’ve used them. For instance, instead of saying “I’m good at teamwork,” you could say, “I’ve led a cross-functional team to launch a product ahead of schedule.” This ties your abilities directly to what the employer is looking for.
5. Sign-Off (10 seconds)
End by thanking the viewer for their time and letting them know how to reach you. Keep it warm and professional — a simple “Thank you for watching. You can reach me at [email/LinkedIn]” works perfectly. Smile, make eye contact with the camera, and leave a positive, memorable impression.
How to Make a Video Resume
Before you start recording, take the time to make sure your setup is ready. You want to check your camera, internet connection, and audio so everything is clear and uninterrupted. Even small technical issues can distract from your message, so it’s worth getting it right beforehand.
1. Write a Script
Just like a paper resume takes careful thought, a video resume benefits from preparation. Writing a script makes the recording process much smoother. For starters, you can start with your current resume and turn the key points into a story. Highlight your relevant skills, why they fit the role, and any experience that shows you can succeed in the position. Writing it out in advance gives you a roadmap and keeps you from rambling.
2. Tell Your Story
A video resume allows you to show, not just tell. Instead of simply listing accomplishments, craft a story around them. Pick a specific project, challenge, or experience that demonstrates your skills in action. Show how your past work or learning experiences make you a strong fit for the role. This is where your personality, passion, and thought process come through — things a piece of paper can’t capture.
3. Keep It Brief
You always want to keep in mind that the reason you are making a video resume is that attention spans are short, so you want to make it as short as possible, for 60–90 seconds. Two minutes is the absolute maximum. Film a few takes, then trim the unnecessary parts, the pauses, filler words, or anything that doesn’t strengthen your story. Every second should add value and reinforce why you’re the right candidate.
4. Provide a Call to Action (CTA)
End your video with clear next steps for the employer. Should they email you, view your LinkedIn, or check out a portfolio? If you’re posting your video online (like YouTube or Vimeo), include links in the description. A strong CTA ensures your video doesn’t just showcase you; it also opens the door to follow-up conversations.
5. Get Feedback
Once you have a few takes, don’t just watch them alone. Ask a friend, mentor, or colleague to review your best version. Fresh eyes can spot things you missed, awkward phrasing, rushed delivery, or anything that could make your presentation stronger. Polishing your video this way takes extra time, but it makes a noticeable difference in how professional and confident you come across.
David Adubiina
Conclusion
It’s important to remember that video resumes are a tool, not a requirement for every application. You don’t need to use one unless it’s specifically requested. That said, they can make a real difference in certain situations:
- When applying for creative, content, sales, or marketing roles
- When you may not have a strong academic record, but bring excellent people skills
- When a job post emphasizes “strong communication” or a “growth mindset”
In highly formal sectors like banking, law, or government, a video resume might not be the best fit unless the employer explicitly asks for it. For most other fields, though, it can give you an edge, especially when paired with your traditional resume.
