Are Marketing Managers Watching Them?

Instagram and TikTok are apps usually used to share particular moments, join with others, or promote our manufacturers — however can we additionally use these platforms to create and share resumes? In 2021, TikTok launched TikTok Resumes, a program designed to “proceed increasing and enhancing TikTok as a brand new channel for recruitment and job discovery,” based on a information launch.

The New York Times calls TikTok the brand new search engine for Gen Z, so it is sensible that Gen Z customers may additionally seek for employment alternatives on the app. It additionally is sensible manufacturers on the lookout for younger expertise might flip to the app for job postings. However are advertising managers and recruiters watching TikTok movies and accepting them as a substitute of resumes?

To search out out, I requested recruiters at HubSpot and surveyed advertising decision-makers for his or her ideas on resumes within the type of TikTok movies. Here is what you must know when you’re considering of filming your subsequent resume.

What’s a TikTok resume?

A TikTok resume is a 60-second video posted to TikTok showcasing the job expertise, abilities, and creativity of a person on the lookout for employment. To make sure the resume reaches recruiters, job candidates should embrace #TikTokResumes of their posts.

Beneath is an instance of a TikTok resume:

Almost half of TikTok customers within the U.S. are between the ages of 10 and 29, so this system probably targets job seekers on the lookout for entry-level positions.

What do professionals consider TikTok or Instagram resumes?

Since movies on TikTok usually discover their strategy to Instagram Reels, I figured it might be protected to imagine customers would additionally add their movies to Instagram to get extra eyes on their resumes. With that in thoughts, I surveyed 98 advertising professionals to gauge their ideas on TikTok or Instagram resumes. Listed here are the outcomes:

• When requested in the event that they’ve ever thought-about a candidate with an Instagram or TikTok resume, 68% stated they’ve, and 32% stated they haven’t.
• When requested if they might evaluate an Instagram or TikTok resume, 71% of respondents stated they might.
• 27% stated they might evaluate one, however solely with a standard resume doc. The remaining 2% stated they have no idea and are unfamiliar with Instagram and TikTok resumes.

I additionally requested respondents to elucidate their reasoning for why they might (or would not) settle for a TikTok or Instagram resume. Respondents in favor of those video resumes usually stated they discovered the resumes to be distinctive, enjoyable, inventive, and fascinating.

Respondents not in favor of TikTok and Instagram resumes usually stated the resumes had been unprofessional or would not give sufficient perception concerning the candidate. As soon as once more, some respondents stated they’d slightly settle for the video with a standard resume doc.

I additionally requested HubSpot advertising recruiters for his or her views.

“I might extra probably need [a TikTok or Instagram resume) as an addition versus replacing a resume completely,” Marketing Recruiter Kassandra Pirela said. “A resume gives more insight on the experience and whatnot … I would like this as an addition to show that they put more effort into applying, and it’s just nice to get to know them a little more.”

Some HubSpot recruiters seemed to agree that video resumes like a TikTok or Reel are best as a supplement, rather than a replacement, for traditional resumes. However, other HubSpot recruiters also pointed out that video resumes can be more efficient than conventional resumes since they’re quicker to view and showcase personality.

However, a common concern brought up by the recruiters is that a video resume could trigger unconscious biases in the job-searching processes. For example, a recruiter may be more interested in the interactive video than a traditional resume, regardless of either candidate’s experience.

Should you make a TikTok or Instagram resume?

In an increasingly digital world, social media resumes could likely become more acceptable in the professional world in the coming years. However, candidates should always research the job they are applying for and adhere to the job posting guidelines.

In other words, if the job posting says to submit a resume document and cover letter — do that. You can include a link to your TikTok resume in your application to stand out, but you still need to have the materials the job posting specifies. A TikTok resume could be beneficial if you’re applying for a reactive position like a videographer or social media manager — but make sure to have a traditional resume on hand.