Online video is a powerful communication tool for both employers and job seekers. They are used during job interviews but also beforehand in the process of job searching (video CVs) and recruitment (video job descriptions). This article will focus on using video in searching for employees.
A video job description is a short video clip in which a hiring manager, together with his or her staff, talk about who they are looking for to enter their team. The video's aim is not to replace the traditional written job offer but to supplement it, humanise it and especially let it shine amongst the greyness of all the other job offers. Video job descriptions can be uploaded not only to your own website: many of today's job portals and, of course, social networks allow for video uploading.
The phenomenon of the use of videos in job offers was covered in a recent article by John Sullivan on ERE.net. Based on the recommendations of this renowned consultant in the field of HR and current professor of management at San Francisco State University, we have prepared two articles summarising the advantages and the practical possibilities of using video job descriptions in job offers. Let's start with the advantages.
1. Sending an authentic message
A live image of the hiring manager and team will make your job ad more authentic. It will be more credible and interesting for prospective job applicants. For you, this is a perfect opportunity to spread awareness about your corporate culture.
2. Raising enthusiasm
A picture is said to be worth a thousand words. A moving and talking picture of real employees can do even more: those interested in working for you can see real people, a real working environment, technologies being used, etc. They can feel the energy and enthusiasm of the entire team.
3. Great interest
Research shows that short videos are popular among all generations of Internet users. The shorter the video, the more often it is shared on social networks. On the other hand, it requires a high degree of creativity from its designers. You can read more about viral marketing in recruitment in our earlier article here.
4. Cheap solution
Nowadays you no longer have to hire expensive companies to create your videos. All you need is a mobile phone and a skilful recruiter or manager who may shoot the video him-/herself or with the help of a colleague from the marketing department.
The second part of the article, with recommendations on how to create a job description video, will appear next week.
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