Plan for a successful video CV

The brief:

In an increasingly digitally focused industry, a personal brand identity, both online and in physical promotional materials, is essential in being a successful creative professional. You are planning to take your next step into higher education or further work experience, and are required to put together materials to promote yourself to employers, clients and/or universities.

Key words:

CV: Curriculum vitae

Succinct points: briefly and clearly expressed.

Anecdotes: a short amusing or interesting story about a real incident or person.

How are you going to use what you have learned so far to "respond" to the brief?

Communication:
Strong communication skills demonstrate the ability to convey ideas effectively, whether in writing, verbally, or through presentations. Being a good communicator also means actively listening to others, understanding their needs, and responding appropriately. This skill is essential in almost any role, as it facilitates collaboration and helps build strong relationships with colleagues, clients, and other stakeholders.

Negotiation:
Negotiation skills show an ability to advocate for ideas, reach mutually beneficial agreements, and resolve conflicts effectively. This skill is particularly valuable in roles that involve client interactions, sales, or project management, as it shows an understanding of how to balance assertiveness with empathy, leading to productive outcomes that satisfy both parties.

Organisation:
Organizational skills indicate the ability to manage time and resources efficiently, prioritizing tasks and setting realistic goals. This is a valuable skill for any position as it shows you can handle multiple responsibilities, meet deadlines, and maintain order in high-pressure situations, which helps maintain workflow and enhances productivity.

Research:
Research skills are a key asset for roles requiring problem-solving or analysis, as they reflect a capacity to gather, evaluate, and synthesize information effectively. This skill is critical for making informed decisions and staying updated on industry trends. It shows prospective employers that you are resourceful, independent, and thorough in your approach.

Leadership:
Leadership skills demonstrate the ability to inspire and guide a team towards common goals. Effective leaders are decisive, resilient, and supportive, traits that help create a positive work environment. Including leadership skills on a CV shows a potential employer that you can take initiative, motivate others, and handle the responsibilities that come with guiding a team through challenges.

Video CV mind map:

SMART target:

Teachers example:

Specific: Create a LinkedIn profile, personal website, and business cards with a logo.

Measurable: Achieve 200 LinkedIn connections, 5 endorsements, 10 portfolio pieces, and 100 business cards.

Achievable: Use Canva- dedicating 2 hours weekly.

Relevant: Align materials with career or education goals.

Time-bound: Complete LinkedIn in 2 weeks, website in 3 months, logo in 1 month, and cards in 2 months.

Team SMART target:

WWW: We were able to work as group and think about the targets we want in the marketing industry.

EBI: I try to find out more about jobs and skills that i need.

My SMART target:

Specific - Create a social media profile, a personal website and business cards that includes the logo of the business i plan on creating.

Measurable - Build a social media profile and achieve 200 connections, Design 100 business cards with the logo of my business, achieve 5 endorsements.

Achievable - Use wix to build my personal website, dedicating 14 hours weekly.

Relevant - Aligns with my passion for baking and having a desire for a business. This combines my interests and my dream career.

Time bound - Complete website in 2 months, logo in 1 week and business cards in 2 weeks.

Things I need to consider for my video CV

Succinct points
Examples
Anecdotes
Lighting
Costume
Setting
Inserts
Sound
Career highlights
Background
Unique qualities
Work experience
Script
Skills
The benefits
What I stand for
Ideas
Inspiration
Closing
Editing
Camera
Introduction

Student video CV analysis

WWW:
He used a green screen for the background to later replace it with a different image or video, allowing for the creation of a more dynamic or visually engaging scene.
He provides examples of the things he can do, demonstrating his skills and abilities, while also offering detailed explanations to give a clearer understanding of how each task is performed.
He discusses the sources from which he has learned various skills, providing insight into the educational tools, experiences, or mentors that have contributed to his development and expertise in those areas.
EBI:
The recording included multiple locations or background changes to add variety and visual interest, rather than being filmed in just one place with a static background throughout.

In this image, the student demonstrates his ability to apply visual effects during video editing, showcasing how he can enhance the video by integrating creative elements, transitions, and special effects to produce a more polished and engaging final product.

In this image, the student illustrates his proficiency in using a green screen to produce his videos, highlighting his skill in applying chroma key techniques to replace the green background with customized visuals, thereby creating a professional and visually compelling result.

In this image, it is evident that he has the capability to create a 3D virtual model, demonstrating his skill in using digital tools to design and visualize three-dimensional objects or environments with precision and detail.

My video analysis for Mahin

Feedback

WWW:
You effectively advised Mahin to incorporate his hobbies into his CV to give employers a broader perspective of his personality and skills outside of work. By showcasing hobbies, he can demonstrate qualities such as teamwork, dedication, creativity, or leadership, depending on the activities he enjoys. For example, if Mahin's hobby is playing a team sport, it shows he values collaboration and has good interpersonal skills. If he enjoys baking or cooking, it could reveal creativity, patience, and attention to detail. Including hobbies helps to humanize the candidate and provides conversation starters during interviews, helping Mahin stand out in a competitive job market.

EBI:

To make the video more professional and engaging, film at eye level. When the camera looks up at the speaker, it can feel distant and less connected. Filming at eye level creates a better connection with the viewer and looks more polished. Also, vary your tone of voice to keep the audience interested. Speaking in the same tone can make listeners lose focus. By changing your tone to emphasize key points and show enthusiasm, you’ll keep the audience engaged and make your message more memorable.

My video CV

My video CV feedback

WWW:

Person A:

It's wonderful to see your passion for baking and creativity shine through. Your baking skills not only highlight your creativity but also demonstrate your attention to detail and patience. These attributes are valuable in many professional settings.

Person B:

I admire your crafting skills, which show how versatile and adaptable you are. These skills can be applied to a range of different tasks and roles. This adaptability is a strong asset in any job, showcasing your ability to handle various challenges and learn new skills quickly. Overall, your talents in both baking and crafting reflect a broad skill set that can enhance your professional profile in numerous ways.

EBI:

Person A:

Next time, make sure to show excitement in your video, as you mentioned. It’s important to look directly into the camera to create a personal connection with the viewer. This will help engage your audience right from the start.

Person B:

Next time, consider researching video CVs online to explore creative ways to edit your video. You might find innovative techniques or styles that can make your presentation stand out and capture an employer’s attention more effectively. Adding unique elements or dynamic edits can really enhance your video and make it more engaging and memorable.

Video CV 2 test shots

In the first test shot, I am introducing myself, sharing a bit about my passions, and explaining what drives me. I talk about how I find joy in creating, and how life, for me, is all about making things that inspire and bring happiness to others.

In the second test shot, I am talking about one of my biggest passions: baking and cooking, while simultaneously preparing a dessert for my family. As I discuss how much I enjoy the creative process of turning simple ingredients into something special, I’m also demonstrating this passion in real-time by carefully crafting a sweet treat.

In the third test shot, I am talking about my passion for crafting. While doing some crochet, I express how much I enjoy working with my hands, whether it’s creating décor, designing a DIY project, or making something beautiful from scratch.

In the fourth test shot, I am talking about my love for travelling with my family. As I pack my suitcase, I explain how travelling gives us the opportunity to explore new places, experience different cultures, and create lasting memories together.

In the fifth test shot, I am talking about my love for travelling with my family. As I arrange the souvenirs on my shelf, I share how these little treasures remind me of the places we’ve explored and the memories we’ve made together.

In the final test shot, I am reflecting on my aspirations for the future. I share my excitement about where my love for baking, cooking, and crafting might lead me, expressing my dream of one day opening my own bakery to share my creations with others.

Video CV 2

CV mindmap

CV photos

In the first CV photo test shot I am sitting at a desk with my laptop, and I am looking directly at the camera. My posture is professional, and the subject appears focused. The background is clean and well-lit. The only issues would be that the reflection in the glass might be slightly distracting.

In the third CV photo test shot I am typing on the laptop with a neutral expression whilst looking at the camera. This photo is a more natural and professional photo showing concentration on work, which fits a CV well. The only issues would be that the background reflection persists, which may detract from the professional look.

In the second CV photo test shot I am smiling at looking at the camera while typing on the laptop. The smile makes this a more approachable and friendly photo. It adds a positive tone to my CV. The only issues would be is that the reflection and background are still somewhat distracting, but the positive expression is a strong plus.

In the fourth CV photo test shot I am sitting at a desk typing on the laptop whilst looking at the screen rather than the camera. This photo seems professional and has a natural vibe, as it shows that I am engaged in my work. The only issue would be that there is no direct eye contact with the camera which makes it slightly less engaging and that it doesn't show my face.

Mockup CV

First draft written CV

Feedback and self-reflection

WWW:

The layout of the CV is well-organised, making it easy to follow. It is detailed and includes a variety of information about myself, such as my education, skills, and interests. The CV highlights my passion for hospitality and baking, and it clearly shows my work experience and the skills I have developed through different roles.

EBI:

The CV could be improved by providing specific details about my responsibilities and achievements in each work experience, rather than just listing the jobs. For example, I could explain how I helped organize activities for children or supported teachers in the classroom. This would better demonstrate the skills I developed in each role and how they apply to my future goals. Additionally, I should include my website to showcase the work I’ve done, along with the languages I can speak, to further highlight my capabilities and experiences.

Self-reflection:

Based on the feedback, I realize that I need to focus more on highlighting my specific achievements in each job role to effectively showcase my skills and experiences. Additionally, I should simplify certain sections and ensure consistency in the layout to make my CV clearer. Moving forward, I will shorten my summary and provide more detailed information about my responsibilities and accomplishments in each position. I will also include my website to display my work and list the languages I speak, further enhancing the professionalism and strength of my CV.

Final draft written CV

Smile campaign

Brief:

I was approached by Happy Foundation to produce an advert for GNS community which includes GNS students (aged 14-18), parents and staff members. Happy foundation is a movement that is concerned by building happier societies and they target GNS community as it is a massive community of different age groups and multiple nationalities, religions and cultures. The purpose of the advert is to reduce stress and help the community keep smiling.

Script:

The script I created serves as a helpful guide, ensuring I know exactly what will happen during the filming of the advert. It allows me to plan out the visuals and actions in detail, keeping the narrative clear and concise. I’m particularly proud of this accomplishment because it enabled me to follow the brief closely, helping me develop a well-organised and coherent plan for the advert I want to make. This thorough preparation ensures a smoother filming process, making everything more efficient and effective overall.

Video pitch feedback:

I received feedback on my video pitch and took the time to analyse it carefully. By breaking down the comments, I was able to identify key areas for improvement, such as enhancing my delivery and refining the content structure. After reflecting on this, I wrote a plan detailing the steps I will take to improve for my next pitch. This includes practising my presentation skills, adjusting the script, and incorporating more engaging visuals to make the overall pitch more effective

Test shots:

The test shots I filmed gave me a clear idea of what and how I will be capturing different scenes for my advert. By experimenting with various angles and setups, I was able to visualise how the shots would work in the final product. I’m especially proud of this, as it allowed me to follow the brief closely and create a well-organised plan for the advert I want to make. This preparation will help ensure the filming process runs smoothly and effectively.

Moodboard:

Storyboard:

The storyboard I created serves as a valuable guide that visually outlines the filming process. It helps me anticipate and plan each scene in detail, including the shot angles, shot types, camera movements, and scene directions. I’m especially proud of this accomplishment because it allowed me to follow the brief closely, ensuring that I developed a solid and organised plan for the advert I want to make. This detailed planning makes the filming process smoother and more efficient.

Risk assessment:

The risk assessment I created helps identify potential hazards and ensures I understand the possible outcomes should any of these hazards occur. It provides a clear overview of the risks involved, allowing me to take necessary precautions and prepare effectively for unexpected situations. I’m particularly proud of this, as it enabled me to plan ahead and ensure that I’m fully prepared for any eventualities. This forward-thinking approach not only improves safety but also gives me greater confidence moving forward with my project.

Questionnaire:

I created a questionnaire as part of my secondary research to gather information on what makes people happy, as it directly relates to the brief. The questions were carefully designed to explore various factors that contribute to happiness, including personal experiences and preferences. I’m proud of the effort I put into crafting the questionnaire, as it will provide valuable insights to guide my project and ensure it aligns with the audience’s needs, helping me meet the requirements of the brief effectively.

I created a mood board to visually represent the ideas for the product I wanted to showcase in my advert. It includes a collection of images, colours, and design elements that reflect the concept and style I aim to achieve. By assembling these visual references, I was able to see how different aspects of my idea would come together. I’m proud of the mood board, as it helped me stay true to the brief and develop a clear vision for the advert I want to make.