How to Video Pitch

Let’s start with the definition of a video pitch: A video pitch is a short video to present yourself to your future employer.

To stand out, you can add a video pitch to your application. For some positions, a video pitch may even be mandatory. Either way, a video pitch can be a determinant of whether you land a job or not.

The goal of your video pitch

The goal of your video pitch should be for the hiring manager to get to know more about you. There are different ways to do this.

• Elaborate on something mentioned on your resume.
• Tell something that isn’t mentioned on your resume or cover letter.
• Introduce yourself.

Preparation

Before you start filming your video pitch you need to prepare a few things

1. Clothing

What are you going to wear? Think about the position you would like to fill within the bank or insurance company. When you’ve established that you can adapt your outfit to the role. Also, think about the company itself. Is it a formal company, or is it more modern? If you have connections within the company, don’t be afraid to ask them about the dress code. If you look the part in your video pitch, it is easier for the hiring manager to imagine you in the role that you’re applying for. Always keep in mind that you should dress to impress!

2. Location

Make sure you film at a (relatively) quiet location. It doesn’t have to be a special place. Your living room or bedroom is sufficient. Just make sure that there isn’t too much noise in the background. You should also make sure that your background is clean. For example, no pile of clothes sitting on a chair in your bedroom in the background. No toys lying around in the living room etc. If you want to film outside, it’s important to ensure there isn’t too much wind. If it’s a windy day, the sound of your video might not be up to par.

Time management

Make sure your video pitch is short. As it is a bonus to complement your resume or cover letter. A maximum of 3 minutes would do. When you’re required to make a video pitch, you should always make sure not to exceed the time limit given in the instructions. If you exceed the time limit given in the instructions it will show that you're not good at following instructions. This will leave a bad impression on the hiring manager. Besides that, it can also make the hiring manager not want to watch your (complete) video pitch. Simply because it is not what they asked for.

Equipment

You don’t need professional equipment to film a video pitch. A digital camera or the camera of your smartphone is sufficient. Editing is unnecessary but can help if you want to add special effects to your video. You can easily download free editing programs and simply edit the video yourself. If you decide to edit your video and add special effects, make sure it is beneficial to your video pitch. If it is distracting or doesn't add any value to your video pitch it’s best to leave them out.

Now that you know what it takes to make a video pitch, what are you waiting for? Create your video pitch and land your dream job! And don’t worry if it’s not perfect in one take. The beauty of video is that you can do it repeatedly until you think it is okay.

Shortlist

• Share something new about yourself or elaborate on an item on your CV
• Dress to impress
• Keep it short
• Choose a quiet place