This service is so new we don't have one to show yet...but read on!
Video CVs are a bit of a new fad that hopes to evolve into something more than that. They're also quite controversial amongst the experts on personnel hiring. Google "video cvs" and you'll find numerous blogs and articles that explain why.
Most of the ones we've seen out there are simply done poorly. Not just the ones you can do yourself in front of your own webcam (there are services that tell you how to do this for upload to their sites), but even ones produced by professional video production companies. Main offenses: bad lighting, bad sound (echoey), corny graphics and poor editing.
The other problem we see is that its not for everyone. If you're uncomforable in front of people or a camera, that's what comes off in the video. It seems to be generally agreed amongst the recruitment professionals that recruiters make their decision in the first 30 seconds of interview. If one gives a poor impression on a video cv, that decision can come even sooner.
On the plus side, if you are the type of person who is comfortable and confident in talking to people about yourself and if your video cv is professionally done, it can be a great tool in addition to other more conventional methods. Also, there are many ways you can distribute your video cv--from YouTube (there are tons of them there) to many different sites that specialize in video cvs. You can also send the link to prospective employers in addition to your hard copy cv. In this internet age, your video cv will likely be looked at first, and if its good, you just may have increased your chances for an interview.
If you would like a professional Video CV and are able to come to our studio near Grantham (Woolsthorpe-by-Belvior), contact the Video Whisperer to schedule your appointment. Price for a regular business Video CV is £75, but check the special offer below...
Performers--actors, models, dancers and performers
Video CVs may just be the perfect tool for performers. Most performers have either a reel or "headshots" that they use to promote themselves, either directly or through an agency or both.
Actors: What if you were able to personally introduce your reel on the reel itself?
We can set you up in our studio with dramatic, but classic portrait lighting and help you produce your intro. Then we'll edit onto your reel--or if you don't have one yet but have the footage to make one, we'll put together a great reel of your best performances and make professional labeled copies for you. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and we'll arrange a meeting or phone call to discuss your specific needs. But don't worry, it won't be expensive either.
Models: Here's where it gets really interesting! You either have or don't have a portfolio of head shots or still photographs. In any case, the usual is to have stills, right?
What if you could have a Video Profile (in other words, a Video CV) in which you had the opportunity to introduce yourself and then show case your talent--not with stills, but with slow motion video shots of an actual modeling shoot? "Huh?" you say? That's right, this is a new idea. But think about it...we do a video shoot in some iconic locations but treat it exactly like a still photo shoot. We don't "make a movie". Instead we produce an art piece, show-casing your look and style in a series slow motion video shots. Instead of life-less stills, we breathe life into it. And for good measure, where you have it, we add in a montage of your best existing stills from any professional shoots you have done in the past with graphics detailing the companies who hired you. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to arrange a meeting or phone call to discuss your needs. Be sure to check out the special offer below!
In all cases for any kind of Video CV, we can add graphics to itemize your pertinent details and references.
SPECIAL OFFERS
To help us get this new service off the ground we are making the following offers:
1) For a standard business CV the limited special offer price is £50. Studio location is in Woolsthorpe-by-Belvoir, in the shadow of the castle.
2) For models and aspiring models, send your photo and current cv (if you have one) or any details of your experience to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and we will select one applicant to receive a Video CV absolutely free of cost. The only stipulations are that you are at least 18 years old and either live near or can travel to the Grantham area for the shoot.
The reason for this offer to models is that you will be helping us to pilot the format before we make it available as a full service. You will, however, receive the Video CV in both DVD and web file format for your own use.
