When TikTok launched its resumes platform last month, it came as a surprise to many. What is the point of an app that’s known for making funny and quick videos? Why can people now upload their resumes to be seen at major companies like Target and the NBA?
It turns out that video resumes and social media could be a significant tool in helping people get jobs. The resumes tool on TikTok was part of a pilot program, which ended at the end July. However, it is not the first major effort of a social network to link employers and job applicants.
The social video app TikTok is promoting video resumes as a way for applicants “creatively, authentically showcase their skillsets” and Instagram and TikTok are intriguing platforms to share and create that type of content.
“The advantage for applicants is it’s a time to show your creativity,” said Nicole Penn, president of marketing agency EGC Group. Employers have the advantage of having access to a digital native. This is what many employers seek.
Social media companies are known to borrow from (or steal) other sites. Penn predicts that other social media companies will soon borrow (steal) features from each other.
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She said, “We first predicted that LinkedIn would have a video resume function.” We do see Instagram being used for recruiting, so it’s only a matter of time until they have a similar feature. Facebook, which is part of Instagram, will also do the same.”
Businesses like WWE have already launched initiatives that draw on TikTok for job recruitment. The entertainment giant uses TikTok for SummerSlam to find its next great announcer.
Video resumes are being used in other places. What privacy and bias implications do they have? These and other considerations are discussed by Penn in the interview.