How to record a 60-second intro video for a job application
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A 60-second intro video is one of the most powerful — and least-used — ways to stand out in a job search. You don't need gear or talent; you need good light, a steady phone, and a simple script that feels natural, not awkward.
What to say (a simple script)
- Who you are (name + role) — about 5 seconds
- Your strongest proof — one result or story — about 20 seconds
- What you're looking for / why this kind of role — about 20 seconds
- A warm close and invite to connect — about 10 seconds
Keep it to 60–90 seconds. Conversational beats scripted.
How to set it up (no gear needed)
- Light from the front — face a window or lamp; never have the light behind you.
- Camera at eye level — prop your phone up; looking down reads as distant.
- Look at the lens — not at yourself on screen; the lens is the hiring manager's eyes.
- Film horizontal — landscape fits most pages and screens.
- Quiet room, steady phone — lean it on something solid; kill background noise.
- Dress for the role — what you'd wear to the interview.
Tips
One good take is enough — warmth wins over polish. Smile, breathe, and talk like you're meeting someone. If you stumble, just restart; you'll relax by take two.
Where to put it
Embed it at the top of your pitch page so a hiring manager meets you before the interview. (See what is a pitch page.)
FAQ
- How long should it be?
- 60–90 seconds. Short and genuine beats long and polished.
- What if I'm camera-shy?
- Use the script, do a couple of takes, and remember most candidates skip this entirely — even an imperfect video stands out.
- Do I need a good camera?
- No — a phone with good light and steady framing is plenty.
- What should I say?
- Who you are, one proof point, what you want, and a warm close.
Build your pitch page
Free to build, $9 to publish — upload your résumé and watch the page build itself.
Build My Pitch Page