TikTok is about to change how we apply for jobs, as it is testing out a new feature called TikTok Resumes that lets people use videos to apply for job openings. They are running it as a pilot for US citizens at the moment.

To apply, users would simply have to upload a standard video where they briefly introduce themselves, summarise their work experience and skills, while leaving out personal information such as their last name and email address. 

After the video has been posted, copy the link to save it to the clipboard and head to the TikTok Resumes website.

Once applicants find their desired opening, click “Learn More” to view more details of the job, and hit the “Submit your TikTok Resume” button. A pop-up will appear where users can submit their personal information and most importantly, the link to the recorded TikTok job application.

The video (as well as the account) will need to be set to public and should contain the hashtag #TikTokResumes. The resume video should also remain on the platform for a month, so recruiters have enough time to review the application. Users may also decide to tag the brand they’re applying to, but this isn’t mandatory. 

The time limit for the video resumes are most likely 3 minutes, as TikTok began extending the time limit for creators, from 60 seconds earlier this month.

Applicants are also allowed to use the same TikTok resume to apply to other companies and create multiple video resumes as they see fit.

The current jobs that available on the TikTok Resumes website include openings for account executives, software developers, art directors and more. As this program is a trial run, the vacancies and participating brands are currently fixed. 

TikTok also emphasises that uploaded video resumes do not count as an official job application as each organisation’s hiring process is unique, so TikTok video resumes are more of a starting point in that respect. 

Even if a user’s desired job isn’t part of the current list of participating brands or openings, TikTok encourages applicants to upload their video resumes anyway, as the #TikTokResumes hashtag will allow users to be noticed by other companies. 

TikTok’s resume FAQ states that interested brands may reach out to the video-sharing app if they would like to come onboard as partners, should there be another round of the program. 

For users, this feature could encourage them to be more creative as well as helping them make full use of their voices, while they cultivate better communication. 

As for recruiters, they would have an easier time gauging whether applicants are fit for employment, based on the presentation, body language and other factors of an applicant which cannot be seen on a traditional resume. 

If the TikTok Resumes experiment proves to be a success, this would revolutionise the way we approach job applications, as they are considered to be a very serious subject. 

Video resumes have been around for a while but if they’re done via TikTok they certainly can feel much less daunting, as TikTok can appear as a lighthearted platform.

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