WITH the world of technology constantly evolving, there is no shortage of creativity in the ways people use its tools in their everyday tasks. The world of work is one place where technology has taken a firm hold, with one of the latest trends being the use of video, rather than traditional paper cover letters as part of the job application process. It is also emerging in colleges, according to College Coordinator at the American International School of Kingston (AISK) and founder of AIM Educational Services, Nicole Campbell.

The written cover letter usually comprises about three paragraphs. The first should state your academic qualifications, the job position you’re applying for and where you saw it advertised. The following paragraph’s aim is to sell yourself to the recruiter. This should tell them how your skills and experience can contribute to the growth of their company. To wrap up, thank the recruiter for considering you and give your contact information.

With the video cover letter, however, there is no set format. As a guide however, consider that it does serve a similar purpose and should include the same information. An advantage that it has over the written form is that it allows room for creativity such as the use of visual imagery. The information must be delivered in such a way that it holds the recruiter’s full attention.

“Appearance in terms of presentation is important, grammar needs to be on point, as well as enthusiasm and sincerity in terms of interest,” Campbell stated in response to a question about what is a must when doing a video cover letter.

Their more engaging features aside, video cover letters have inherent disadvantages. There is no standard template that dictates how the content should flow or how it should be presented. This can result in applicants going overboard in trying to impress recruiters, and in so doing ruin their chances of landing an interview. Another drawback is that some employers might not have the relevant technology to watch the videos and will simply move on to the next application.

Guidance counsellor at HEART Trust/NTA Lluidas Vale Kevia Dawson believes these will not render written cover letters obsolete.

Still, Campbell urges applicants to become au fait with the technology as it can prove advantageous for marketing and customer service positions, as well as jobs that require constant use of one’s creativity and interpersonal skills.