The problem is that your resume looks exactly the same as 500 other resumes.
Recruiters receive hundreds of CVs daily. Your resume is in a pile of papers or in an email folder among dozens of others. Nothing sets you apart. You're just another name on the list.
The Solution: A 30-Second Video
The one thing that puts an athlete ahead of 90% of people is attaching a short video about yourself and why you want the job.
It doesn't have to be an hour-long monologue. Just 30 seconds.
Why does it work?
- 90% of people don't do it -- you automatically stand out
- They see your personality -- you're not just text on paper
- You show initiative -- very few people do this, but you do
- They remember you -- face + voice = 10x better odds
You're welcome. Now let me show you exactly how to do it.
How to Record a Video for Your CV (Step by Step)
1. Camera Setup
- Height: Camera at eye level (not from below, not from above)
- Distance: Arm's length away -- head and shoulders visible
- Stability: Place phone on books/a box or use a tripod
- Background: Clean wall or tidy room (no clutter)
2. Lighting Setup
- Natural light: Face a window (not with your back to it!)
- Evening: Turn on room light + a lamp in front of you
- Avoid: Backlighting (you'll be in shadow), harsh overhead light
- Test: Record 5 seconds, check -- you shouldn't be in shadow or overexposed
3. What to Say (30-Second Template)
Use this formula:
- Who you are (5 seconds): "Hi, I'm [name], I played [sport] for [X] years."
- Why this company (10 seconds): "I'm interested in [industry/role] and your company does exactly what excites me."
- What you offer (10 seconds): "Sports taught me [discipline/teamwork/handling pressure], which is exactly what your position needs."
- Call to action (5 seconds): "I'd love to meet and show you what I can do. Thanks!"
4. How to Say It
- Speaking pace: Normal (not fast, not slow)
- Eye contact: Look at the camera (as if you're talking to a person)
- Smile: A slight smile -- you come across as friendly
- Energy: No need to shout, but speak with energy (like a coffee chat)
- Repeat: First 3 attempts will feel weird. That's normal. Record 5 takes and pick the best one
The Mental Edge: 25 Mental Techniques for Athletes
Stressed about interviews? Master your nerves with techniques from a sports mental coach.
Learn more →
How to Send the Video
Once your video is ready, upload it to YouTube as unlisted or to Google Drive and add the link to your email or resume.
In your email, write:
"Dear Hiring Manager,
I'm submitting my resume for the [position] role. I've attached a short video where I introduce myself and explain
why your company caught my attention: [LINK]
Looking forward to hearing from you.
[Your name]"
The Result?
10x more responses than without a video. Because 90% of people don't do this. You do = you automatically stand out.
So go for it. You can record it today in 15 minutes and see the difference.
Once you have your CV and video, prepare for the interview: How to Talk About Sports in a Job Interview. If nobody's responding yet, check out Sending Resumes and Getting No Response? 3 Reasons Why.
Download the PDF Checklist
Complete checklist of what to check before sending your video + resume.
You'll get it straight to your email. Free.
The checklist will arrive in your email in a few minutes. Check spam too.
Video CV is a bonus. But first, you need a strong foundation.
Answer a few questions about your sport and get a professional CV in 2 minutes. From €6.99.
Create CV for €6.99 →Tip: If you're interested in mental performance and handling pressure, check out the e-book The Mental Edge: 25 Mental Techniques for Athletes.