Editing Software

The editing software you choose to edit your video may be decided by the computer you own. Apple computers come pre-loaded with iMovie and windows computers come pre-loaded with Windows Movie Maker. While either of these programs can be used to produce a quality video résumé, you should be aware that both programs are built to produce a limited range of videos.

Windows Movie Maker

This program is very easy to use and is available on all windows computers. It can be used to create a standard video résumé where a speaker talks directly to the camera, and even some more artistic styles of video résumé, such as stop motion video résumé. The downside of the program is that it is very difficult to incorporate cutaway footage, so those hoping to include b-roll in line with a documentary style of video résumés will have a very difficult time.

iMovie

This program is available on all apple computers and can be used to create a wide variety of videos, including many styles of video résumés. iMovie also has a clear tool for incorporating cutaway footage, allowing users to easily incorporate b-roll into their videos. There is a significant learning curve for iMovie, however, as it contains several complicated tools. The program also limits the number of concurrent video and audio files that can be incorporated into a single video, which may restrict the most technical video résumés.

Professional Software

Adobe Premiere, and Final Cut Pro are used for professional video editing, and can be used to create innovative new styles of video résumés. These programs are incredibly powerful and precise, but are difficult to learn. These types of programs are not necessary for the majority of video résumés you will produce.

Video Editing Workflow

Though you can technically edit the parts of your video in any order, the following workflow will allow you to complete the editing process as quickly and effectively as possible.

1. Download all your images and videos to your computer and put them all in a single folder.
2. Name all the files individually to keep track of them
3. Import the files into your video editing software
4. Color, crop, and resize all the video files before you start cutting them into smaller clips
5. Check the audio of the footage and adjust the audio
6. Cut each clip to the desired length and delete the excess
7. Insert a title slide, a final slide, and transitions into the project
8. Add any background music you may be using.