Lights, Camera ... No video resumes thank you

Robert Half International
Survey: Most Companies Not Accepting Video Resumes

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TORONTO - In an increasingly competitive job market, applicants are looking for new ways to stand out from the crowd, but a recent survey suggests submitting a video resume may not be the answer. Just one in four (26 per cent) senior executives interviewed said their companies accept video resumes from candidates.

The survey was developed by Robert Half International, the world's first and largest staffing services firm specializing in accounting and finance. It was conducted by an independent research firm and is based on interviews with 100 senior executives among Canada's 1,000 largest companies.

Executives were asked, "Does your company accept video resumes from job seekers?" Their responses:

Yes...26%
No... 65%
Don't know ... 9%

Although video resumes have become more common, many employers are reluctant to accept them for fear of bias claims from applicants. "Before submitting a video resume, job candidates should check with the hiring manager to ensure the company does not have a policy against their use in evaluating candidates," said Max Messmer, chairman and CEO of Robert Half International and author of Job Hunting For Dummies(R), 2nd Edition (John Wiley & Sons,Inc.).

While individuals do need to distinguish themselves during the job search, Messmer points out that just getting the basics right can give someone an edge. "Writing error-free resumes targeted to each job opening, crafting customized cover letters that succinctly explain why you are the right person for the position and maximizing every opportunity to network with others in your field can often be the most effective strategies for getting hired."

Robert Half International has more than 360 staffing locations worldwide and offers online job search services at www.rhi.com.

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