How to make a job application video in 6 easy steps

As remote working has become more popular over the last few years, there are more ways than ever to apply for a job. 

One of these is creating video job applications to send along with your CV.

Video job applications give a good idea of your personality and how you might fit into a company’s culture. They can also be good for you, too! It can be hard to get your personality across in a CV, whereas a video gives you more room for creativity and a personal touch. 

We know it sounds daunting, so we’ve got you covered! Here’s a six step guide to creating the perfect video for a job application: 

Step 1: Plan your video

It might be tempting to start filming your application video right away.

However, we recommend putting a plan together first. Spend some time thinking about how you’d like to answer any prompts provided by the recruiter or hiring manager.

It’s also important to decide on your format. Would you prefer to record your video on your mobile phone, or your computer? Do you want to film it in landscape mode, or portrait mode? Though these decisions seem small, they can make a big difference to the overall finish of your video. 

Alternatively, you could put together a slideshow with your voice talking through the slides.

Whatever way you choose to present your video, make sure it fits with the job role you’re applying for. It should also feel natural to you.

Write a script 

It is also helpful to write a script to aid you during the filming process.

This will make sure you get your point across clearly. It will also give you a prompt in case you lose your train of thought. Just make sure you use the script as a guide rather than reading from it directly. 

Consider writing them in a cue-card style rather than as a full blown script, to give yourself a bit of freedom with your wording. This will help you to ad-lib and adopt a more natural tone. 

What to wear

Another key part of planning your video is deciding on your outfit. 

Although it’s likely only your top half will be on the camera, we recommend dressing the way you might for an interview. Not only will this help you to look professional, but it will also help you get into a professional frame of mind. 

For extra tips on how to prepare for a video interview, watch our video!

Step 2: Check the video and audio quality

It’s worth spending some time making sure the quality of your video is high. Check that there’s no background noise and that your microphone is picking up your voice clearly. There’s no point talking about your fantastic communication skills if the hiring manager can’t hear you! 

To that end, use headphones or an external microphone, if you have one. You can also conduct a sound test to make sure your voice is clear on the video. 

You should film your video in a well-lit environment against a plain backdrop. This will make sure that you are the star of the show in your video application.

Make sure you place the camera at eye level. This will avoid awkward angles and give the impression that you’re looking the person watching the video in the eye. You can use a tripod for this, but don’t worry if you don’t have one. You could always use a pile of books or a box to adjust the height if you need to. 

Step 3: Talk about experiences or qualities relevant to the role

In a video job application, it can be tempting to simply recite your CV. It’s actually best not to do this, as the hiring manager will already have that information. 

Instead, talk about your experiences or any qualities you have that fit the job description.
Did you work on a successful project during your previous role? Why not go through the details? Talk about what you enjoyed about the project and any results you helped to achieve. 

This is your chance to let potential employers see your personality as well as your passion for your work, so it’s important to make sure it comes across strongly in your video.

What else to include in a video job application

Don’t forget to say your name, the position you’re applying for, and what attracts you to the company, just as you would in a video interview.

When concluding your video, reiterate your enthusiasm for the company and the role. You could also talk about your career goals and how they align with this particular role. 

Step 4: Reshoot if you need to

Filming at home can come with a variety of obstacles, from next door’s dog barking to unexpected visits from the postman.

If you do experience any interruptions, don’t be afraid to reshoot your video. It can be frustrating, but repeating your script can actually strengthen your confidence in how to speak on camera. 

It can actually be a good idea to purposely record multiple videos, so you can choose which one you prefer to send over. Not only will this give you options to compare, but you can also try out a few different presenting styles to see which one suits your personality best. 

Step 5: ‘Proof’ your video

Just as you would proofread your CV or cover letter, it’s also important to check through your video before submitting it.

It can feel a bit awkward watching yourself on camera, but this step is essential. Review your video for clarity and technical glitches, and try to get feedback from others before you submit it. 

Make sure that all your points come across clearly and that you’re giving eye contact throughout the video. Watching the video with fresh eyes, you might spot an area for improvement that you hadn’t considered before. Also check for technical issues like poor video or sound quality. 

If you have any on-screen text, be sure to proofread that carefully and keep an eye out for any grammatical or spelling errors. 

Step 6: Edit your video

The final step before submitting a video is editing.

You don’t need to be an expert in video technology to do this. However, making a few tweaks can help to give your video a professional edge.

There are plenty of video editing tools available to help you. They will help with tricks like enhancing natural lighting, cutting down background noise and even adding subtitles.

We recommend trimming out any unnecessary parts of your video so that you can hold the viewer’s focus. If possible, keep your video between 90 seconds and two minutes. 

Editing your video after recording will give you a great competitive advantage. It doesn’t need to be professionally polished, but a little bit of editing goes a long way in keeping your video front of mind for potential employers. 

For more tips on finding a job, check out our jobseekers' guide.

Extra tips to consider

Don't forget to smile

Start with a genuine smile and a relaxed expression. It instantly makes you look more approachable, and it lifts the tone of everything you say. You don’t need to grin the whole time, but you do want to feel friendly and engaged.

Write for the ear, not the page

If you use a script, read it out loud. Ideally, record a quick voice note. Most people write more formally than they speak, so tighten long sentences, use simpler words and contractions, and make sure it sounds natural coming out of your mouth.

Commit to the take

It will feel a bit awkward. That’s normal. But low effort shows immediately on video. Bring a little more energy than you think you need, speak with intention, and back yourself. Confidence reads. Hesitation reads too.

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