For job-seekers

How to make a video introduction for a job

Carlos Lorenzo· Founder of Kastme··5 min read

A video introduction is a short clip — usually 30 to 60 seconds — where you tell an employer who you are, what you're good at, and why you want the role. Keep it simple: a quick hello, one or two real strengths with proof, and why this job. You don't need editing or perfect lighting — just be a clear, warm version of yourself.

A video introduction (sometimes called a video résumé) is a short clip where you introduce yourself to an employer. It doesn't replace your résumé — it carries it, adding the voice, energy, and personality a PDF can't show. Here's how to make one that feels natural.

How long should it be?

30 to 60 seconds. Long enough to read your communication and energy, short enough that a busy hiring manager watches to the end. For a job application, aim for around 30 seconds — tight beats rambling.

What do you say in a 30-second job intro?

Use a simple four-beat structure so you never freeze:

  • Hello + who you are — “Hi, I'm Bea, a fresh Comms grad.”
  • One or two real strengths, with proof — “I ran social for our org and grew turnout 3×.”
  • Why this role — one honest sentence on why this job, this team.
  • Warm sign-off — “Would love the chance to show you more.”

That's it. Notes are fine; a word-for-word script usually makes you sound stiff.

How do you not look cringe on camera?

  • Don't perform — talk. Imagine one friendly person, not a panel.
  • Natural light. Face a window; avoid a bright light behind you.
  • Look at the lens, not at yourself on the screen.
  • Expect a few takes. Most people relax by take three. A genuine, slightly imperfect clip beats a robotic “perfect” one.

Do employers actually watch them?

More and more — and there's a timely reason. As inboxes fill with AI-written résumés that all say the same polished nothing, a real video is one of the few things a bot can't fake. It's becoming a fast way for employers to feel communication and fit before a first call.

Where a video intro fits

You can attach a video link to applications, add one to your LinkedIn, or use a platform built around it. That's what Kastme does — you scroll real roles, record a guided 30-second intro, attach your résumé, and apply. If you'd rather be seen than skimmed, join the early list.

Frequently asked questions

How long should a video introduction for a job be?
About 30 to 60 seconds. Long enough to show communication and energy, short enough that a busy hiring manager actually watches the whole thing. Thirty seconds is a great target for an application intro.
What do you say in a 30-second job intro video?
Use a simple structure: a quick hello and your name, one or two real strengths with a concrete example, why you want this specific role, and a warm sign-off. Talk to the camera like you'd talk to a person, not a panel.
Do employers actually watch video introductions?
Increasingly, yes — especially as inboxes fill with bot-generated and AI-written résumés. A real video is hard to fake, so it's becoming a fast way for employers to feel communication and fit before spending time on a call.
How do I not look cringe on camera?
Don't perform — just talk. Record on your phone in good natural light, look at the lens, and use a few notes, not a script. It usually takes a couple of takes to relax. A genuine, slightly imperfect clip beats a stiff “perfect” one.