My answer is a resounding NO!

There is NO point to a video resume if it's a reading or retread of a traditional resume. Why bother? If you're a savvy job seeker or career activist, you've already got a resume, a LinkedIn profile, and maybe even a blog or web page.

In my opinion, the real job of the video "resume" is to create connection and interest. So if you want to post a video resume on your blog, your website, or send it to an employer or recruiter, why not make that 30-second presentation a branded video profile that will do exactly that?

So, video resume, no. Branded video profile (a.k.a exciting 30-second video commercial), yes!

But before you create a video profile, do what ad agencies and marketers do. Do your homework! You must know who you are, who you want to target, and why you are valuable. Because like anything else in job search and career management -- even though you think it's all about you, it isn't! It's really about who you want to attract -- plain and simple. What they want, what they need, and do you have it?

So if you're going to create a video profile, be BOLD. Be a brand. Be a resource.

Remember, great bold brands attract and repel in almost equal measure. You don't want to be all things to all people, nor could you be if you did want to. So how about working on the attract part?! Be unabashedly who you are (brand) and be proud and energetic in your presentation of value (value proposition).

Be sure that your value proposition is immediately compelling, completely aligned with your targets' current needs, and will make a company salivate (or at least make 'em hungry).

Of course, it's a given that you need to work your video presentation style to reflect the culture of your field -- if you're in a highly traditional industry, a super creative presentation will be counter-productive.

But whatever format you choose, make your video profile shine with individuality and differentiation to create chemistry. Power it with a cluster of accomplishment sound bites that support that clear value proposition. Without that energized, personality-infused value prop, any job-search presentation or networking profile/pitch (written, verbal, or video) is weak and doomed to mediocrity.

If at all possible, work with a professional to make sure you are dressed for success (clothing reflects your brand), are lit well, are in an appropriate non-distracting setting, have good audio, etc. An amateur web cam video may seem like a cost efficient idea, but investing in a professional presentation will almost certainly pay off in better quality and results.

Stop, play, or replay? Which will it be?

Courtesy of CareerHub.com