In a world where 'Call me!' has changed to 'Facebook me!' and apparently 'BB Pin: 2FG69KO' demonstrates a personal biography, we may determine that today's modern men and women have become ever so slightly technology-obsessed.
Alongside being responsible for an increase in social networking and Mark Zuckerberg's impressive bank balance, the internet is also the 'fastest player' in the graduate recruitment market. With online recruitment on the rise, it should therefore come as no surprise that the paper CV is set to be imminently replaced by video CVs. Though the internet, as a communication tool, has been successful in making the application process more accessible to a wider calibre of candidates, it also presents an increasingly daunting task for employers who are expected to sift through the swelling influx of applications as quickly as possible.
Whilst in some sectors ample work experience is a pre-requisite for any job, in areas of employment where work experience does not separate the 'men from the boys' how does the fresh-faced graduate differentiate themselves from other applicants? One of the most sought after non-quantifiable skills, according to Changeboard, is potential. With the absence of work experience employers want to see passion and enthusiasm in candidates. This is where video profiling seems to offer employers and future employees alike, a recruitment revolution.
The process of video CVs allows the employer to quickly identify whether the 'drive' and 'excellent communication skills' that a candidate claims to possess are in fact evident. This method gives employers the opportunity to effectively 'meet and greet' candidates from the comfort of their own office.
In these uncertain economic times it is vital that employers and employees alike move with the times. It has today been reported by Legalweek.com that top UK law firms are set to extend their search for the best graduates beyond Oxbridge, in a bid to increase diversity among their employees. In response to the impending rise in tuition fees, which threatens to see students choosing Universities closer to home to avoid debt, the UK's top law firms are among many employers eager to reinvigorate their campus links to prevent the best candidates from slipping through their fingers.
Whilst employers are seeking new ways to recruit applicants both on and offline, it is crucial that graduates on the search for recruitment stay in touch with the ever-changing recruitment market. So get recording, and make that all important first impression a lasting one. Lights, Camera, Action!
Elise, GRB Journalist
