CV Sites, Video CVs, Social Networks… the new forms of CVs
The widespread presence of the Internet has given rise to new ways of communicating. You may ask yourself: from among the multitude of contents and formats available on the Web, which one should you choose for your CV? Experts advise us to answer this with another question: in my situation, and considering the position I am looking for, what would be the most appropriate format?
- CV Sites
André Letourneau, president of the recruitment firm Altéo, does not object to the principle of the CV site, but reminds us that it cannot be sufficient: “CV sites will never replace the CV sent by email or regular mail; first of all, because the latter is a lot easier to modify and customize for the position being targeted, and also because recruiters, for obvious practical reasons, continue to ask for classic style CVs.”
As a compliment to a classic CV, the CV site should deliver information that is pertinent and different, and should in no way be a copy of the Word version; it would do this notably by adding more details or illustrating with examples of professional work. The CV site seems to be particularly relevant for those professions which involve work that is easily publishable, such as journalists, programmers or artists, who need to present their products.
Rychard Gagnon of the Ministère de l’emploi et de la solidarité sociale du Québec reminds us that CV sites are a secondary tool. “Recruiters do not have the time to visit personal sites of candidates during their initial selection.”
- Social Networking Sites
Professional social networking sites such as LinkedIn are being used more and more by recruiters. It can be a good idea to be registered there as part of your job search, as long as you fill out your profile accurately. However, even this is a complimentary tool that in no way replaces the classic CV.
- Video CV
André Letourneau and Rychard Gagnon share the same point of view on this matter: aside from a few special cases, video CVs are not relevant. “In recruiting procedures that involve casting (actors, models…) photographs and videos can be useful,” specifies Rychard Gagnon. But in those cases it is usually specified in the ad. In other words, if recruiters do not ask for a photo or a video, it is best to leave those out. “Unless you are a cinematographer and you want to showcase your talents.” Even that is not for sure!