If you’re looking for a sales job, you know how important it is to stand out. The promo industry is built on creativity, and as a jobseeker, you can demonstrate how you’re different before you even land an interview. How? In addition to using promo, you can also get in front of the camera to create a quick, compelling video pitch.
Joel Bein, the chief of content and coaching at Career Hackers, says video is the best tool for jobseekers. A video pitch gets, on average, an 80% response rate compared to a less than 1% response rate for a resume. He says it’s an excellent tool for showing your creative energy and entrepreneurial spirit. Because it’s different than the usual approach, a video helps you stand out in a good way.
Not sure how to get started? Read on. We share Bein’s framework for creating a video pitch in this issue of PromoPro Daily.
Take advantage of a video tool. Whether you use something like Loom or YouTube, these are helpful in letting you see a preview of your video before you finalize it. But, Bein says, the substance of your pitch matters much more than the tool you choose.
Don’t use a script. It’s good to know what you want to say, but you should always speak naturally and conversationally on video. He recommends framing the pitch from the employer’s perspective and showing what you can do for your potential new company.
Smile. It’s understandable to feel a little nervous. You’re putting yourself out there and doing something different. Remember to smile though, Bein says, because this can help you relax and be your authentic self. After you smile, he suggests mentioning something you love about the company. Even a simple, “Hey Promo Company, I love your mission to bring a world-class experience to your clients.”
Share some quick personal tidbits. Whether you choose to share a professional achievement or something personal that shows your soft skills, aim to tie these tidbits into the role you’re applying for. For example, you could say something like, “I ran a marathon by showing up and training every day for five months. I’ll bring that some consistency and drive to my work as a salesperson at [Company Name].”
Make it a minute long. According to Bein, 60 seconds is the sweet spot. This length keeps them interested without being too short or too drawn-out.
If you’re excited to make a video pitch, don’t worry about aiming for perfection. Like Bein says, you still have a first-mover advantage, so you’ll catch the attention of your potential employer.
Compiled by Audrey Sellers
Source: Joel Bein is the chief of content and coaching at Career Hackers.