Gen Z ditches traditional resumes for TikTok videos to stand out in tough job market

If you’re eyeing a new job, forget writing a resume. Open up TikTok and record a video instead.

Gen Z is harnessing the power of social media in a difficult job market, attempting to stand out from the crowd by submitting recorded content in place of a traditional application.

Jobseeker Jackie Vargas recently uploaded a TikTok video with the aim of it reaching the eyeballs of her potential new boss. The clip allowed her personality to shine more fully than on paper and it scored a staggering 55,000 views.

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“The employment industry has different values now than it did 10 years ago,” Guy Thornton, the founder of Practice Aptitude Tests, told Indy100. “Today, creative skills and digital fluency are in high demand, and a well-crafted TikTok job application can showcase these qualities perfectly.”

And Vargas isn’t the only Zoomer trying their hand at the next-gen application trend.

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When New Yorker Nicole Vawter applied for video resume that earned over 657,000 views on TikTok, garnering rave responses from viewers who said she needed to “be hired ASAP.”

“As more people see success from these videos, it’s likely that even more jobseekers will hop on this trend — and rightly so,” Thorton said.

He argued that “it’s not unrealistic to think TikTok could become another medium for employability,” adding that submitting a social media clip can make the applicant appear more confident, tech-savvy and on-trend.

“When you put yourself on a public platform, you’re not only showing your creativity but also your willingness to be seen, which is key in fields like public relations, marketing, and media,” he added.

But in order to craft a compelling clip, Thorton advised not to get carried away with humor and “keep things professional.”

In the short time frame that applicants have their audience’s attention, he noted that it’s important to emphasize skills and experience for the role.

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“Attention spans are short on social media, so keep your video fast-paced, ensuring that your tone of voice is clear and concise. This can be achieved by creative edits, storytelling, or eye-catching visuals,” he continued.

“Close your video with a strong call to action, whether it’s inviting your employer to contact you, check out your other content, or reach out for an interview.”