Everything You Need to Have on Your Video Production Resume

Like any professional field, if you work in video production, you need to have a polished and professional resume. Video production, like film or television production, is a unique industry, so your resume might look slightly different than your standard resume. However, most of the same rules apply. Here is a detailed breakdown of everything you need to have on your video production resume, with some tips and tricks on how to present yourself professionally.  

Resume basics and details to include

Contact info

Standard professional resume rules apply here. You need to include your basic contact information — your full name, address, phone number, email address, and ideally a link to your website or production reel. Double-check to make sure there are no typos. A single wrong number or letter could lead to missed opportunities. Also, while this isn’t resume-specific, be sure to clear out your voicemails. You want to be reachable and appear as professional as possible. 

Professional experience

Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting out in video production, you will want to list any relevant professional experience in the world of production and perhaps even beyond. If you started your career in a different field, you might not want or need to include this experience. However, showing that you have had consistent professional experience and employment can really help. 

The difference between gigs and jobs

Video production gigs can be short-term and project-based. It is important to include both full- or part-time day jobs, as well as any project-specific production gigs that you have worked. If you are early in your career or just out of school, you can include your volunteer-based production experience and any other relevant roles you have played within the world of production. If you have been working in production for some time, be sure to include the most critical roles you have played — and the most note-worthy. 

Education

Be sure to include any post-secondary training and education that you might have. This doesn’t have to simply include a formal college education. If you have been through various production training programs and workshops, add those in your video production resume as well. Are you certified in any specific video production editing programs? Have you gone through specific camera training programs? List them — they help to demonstrate your passion for video production, as well as your willingness to continue to learn and grow within the industry. 

Skills

Write any relevant video production skills on your resume. If you are particularly skilled and experienced in one area of production, this is the place to highlight that information. For example, if you have a great deal of experience working within a particular software, such as Adobe Premiere or DaVinci Resolve, let your employer know. Are you an amazing communicator and collaborator with ample experience using Final Draft? Employers want to know this kind of detailed information, so be specific. 

Memberships and organizations

If you are a member of a specific organization, union, or guild, include this in your video production resume. This is another way to demonstrate your professionalism and passion for production. Being a part of an organization is also a great way to network and make professional connections while you work through your job search. 

Awards

If you have won any awards within the world of video production, put them on your resume. This isn’t bragging — it’s demonstrating that you and your work are respected, proving the quality behind your work. 

What makes a video production resume stand out? 

Portfolios and reels

Ideally you will include a link to your video production portfolio and your production reel. Potential employers want to see examples of your work. Take the time to build a personal website. This will help you stand out, as it is another way of demonstrating your passion and professionalism when it comes to video production. Be sure to make note of your role or roles on each of the work samples in your portfolio or on your personal website. 

Share your passion

Having a successful career in video production requires you to have a passion for the work that you do. Communicate this within the body of resume. Add a short “about me” section. Remember, you will be interviewed not only for your production experience and technical skills but for your excitement and passion about the job — and production at large.  

Consider creating a supplemental video resume

You are a video maker, so why not demonstrate your skills and passion by introducing yourself to potential employers with a video resume? If you are skilled in motion graphics and animation — or you’re a fantastic shooter and editor — make an animated video that not only demonstrates your skills but also captures your personality and passion.

Formatting

The standard rules of resume writing apply here. Recruiters don’t have a lot of time to read through lengthy resumes, so try to keep your resume to one page if possible. At the longest, extend the length of your resume to two pages. Spend time studying other video production resumes. You can find plenty of samples online, as well as templates to help you format your resume in a professional manner. 

Customization

You should think of your video production resume as a living document. Once you have a solid resume written, be prepared to customize it based on the type of role for which you are applying. If it is a one-time gig, be sure to highlight your experience working on project-based productions. If you are applying for a full-time job, tailor your resume to highlight any relevant experience. 

Now that you have a deeper understanding of what you need to have on your video production resume, as well as how to really make your resume stand out, you are well on your way to landing your next video production gig. Good luck!

Find unique production venues on Peerspace