Pitch videos are a powerful way to stand out during a job search. A resume can explain your experience, but a video gives employers a chance to see your personality, communication style, and confidence before the interview even begins. When done well, pitch videos help employers remember not just what you do—but who you are.

I’ll be honest, I don’t like looking for jobs. I’m always nervous about the interview process and wondering how I’m going to stand out from the other applicants. When I applied to Pitch59, I didn’t know much about the company or the people who would be interviewing me. Being a bit of an introvert, that made me more nervous than I care to admit.

However, I was lucky. A friend of mine knew the people I would be interviewing with. He told me a little about the company and recommended me to them. When I applied, I noticed their application process included a quick 59-second pitch video. Even though I was nervous and unsure of myself while recording it, I realized this was my opportunity to show potential supervisors and managers who I was beyond the resume. It gave me a chance to stand out from other applicants in a more personal and memorable way.

The Importance of Pitch Videos

In today’s job market, employers often review dozens—or even hundreds—of applications for a single position. Skills and experience still matter, but memorability matters too. According to LinkedIn research, recruiters spend only a few seconds reviewing many applications before deciding whether to continue. That means first impressions matter more than ever.

Pitch videos can help job seekers in several important ways.

First, they allow recruiters and interviewers to get to know you before the interview even begins. I remember in a previous job when I supervised a team and regularly interviewed applicants for open positions. Honestly, I was sometimes almost as nervous as the people being interviewed because I never knew what to expect. A short pitch video would have been extremely helpful. It would have allowed me to better understand a candidate’s personality and communication style before they walked into the room.

That familiarity can make interviews more comfortable for both the employer and the applicant.

Pitch videos also allow you to personalize your application in ways resumes and cover letters simply can’t. Instead of relying only on written accomplishments, you can naturally show enthusiasm, confidence, professionalism, and communication skills. Employers are not just evaluating qualifications—they’re trying to understand who they’ll be working with every day.

Depending on the role you’re applying for, a pitch video can also help demonstrate relevant skills. You may be able to showcase projects you’ve worked on, explain your thought process, or highlight experiences that would benefit the company you’re applying to.

Creating and submitting a pitch video also demonstrates initiative and creativity. It shows employers you’re willing to put in extra effort to stand out and communicate effectively.

Most importantly, pitch videos make you memorable.

People don’t usually remember a list of qualifications or job titles. They remember personality, energy, confidence, and stories. A short, authentic introduction can help employers feel more connected to you before the interview process even starts.

What to Include in Your Pitch Video

One simple framework that can help structure your pitch video is the HERA model:

Humanize – Start by introducing yourself in a natural, personal way.
Share your name, what you do, and a little about who you are beyond your resume. The goal is to help employers see the real person behind the application.

Empathize – Show that you understand the needs or challenges of the role or company.
This demonstrates awareness, professionalism, and the ability to think beyond yourself.

Resolve – Explain how your skills, experience, or strengths can help solve problems or contribute to the team.
This is your opportunity to connect your background to the value you can provide.

Act – End with a simple call to action.
Thank them for their time, express excitement about the opportunity, and invite them to continue the conversation.

The HERA model helps keep your pitch organized while still sounding natural and authentic. Instead of trying to sound overly polished or scripted, it helps you focus on creating a real human connection—something employers are far more likely to remember.

How to Create Your Pitch Video

Make a Plan

Before recording, take a few minutes to think through the basics:

• Where will you record?
• How will you reduce background noise?
• Will you use your phone, webcam, or another camera?
• Do you need additional lighting or a microphone?
• Will you include visuals, images, or music?

A little preparation can make the process much smoother.

Write a Script

Writing a script helps organize your thoughts and prevents you from rambling. It also helps you estimate the length of your video. In my experience, a script of around 200–220 words usually equals about one minute of speaking time, depending on your pace.

You can also use tools like Pitch59’s AI Elevator Pitch Creator to help structure your message.

One mistake many people make is trying to sound overly polished or “perfect.” Employers are not expecting a professionally produced commercial. They simply want to understand how you communicate and who you are. Natural energy and authenticity are usually far more effective than sounding overly rehearsed.

Practice Your Script

Most of the time, you don’t want to read your script word-for-word while recording. The more familiar you become with your message, the more naturally you’ll speak.

Practicing allows your personality and confidence to come through more clearly.

Dress for the Position

Dress in a way that reflects the role and industry you’re applying for. Professional appearance still matters, but authenticity matters too. The goal is to look prepared, confident, and appropriate for the environment you hope to work in.

Record Your Video

Recording your video may take several attempts—and that’s completely normal.

Personally, I’ve never recorded a video perfectly on the first try. It usually takes me several attempts before I feel comfortable with the final version. Be patient with yourself throughout the process.

Your video doesn’t need to be flawless. It just needs to feel genuine and professional enough that you’re comfortable sharing it with others.

Edit Your Video

If you decide to edit your video yourself, take time to learn the basics of your editing software. Simple edits, clean transitions, and good audio can go a long way.

You can also include images, project examples, or background music if it supports your message. Just make sure the music never overpowers your voice.

If editing feels overwhelming, consider asking someone for help or hiring a professional.

Submit Your Video

Once your video feels complete, make sure it’s easy for employers to access and view. Convenience matters. If your video is difficult to open or buried inside attachments, there’s a higher chance it gets skipped.

You could upload your video to YouTube or Vimeo and share the link directly. Another option is creating a free Resume PitchCard from Pitch59. A PitchCard allows employers to quickly access your pitch video, resume, portfolio, and contact information all in one place.

Other Pitch Tips

Make Sure You Have Good Lighting

Natural lighting is usually best. Try recording near a window without direct sunlight. If natural light isn’t available, use lamps or simple lighting setups to brighten the room evenly.

Check Your Sound

Good audio is just as important as good video. If possible, use a microphone to improve sound quality and reduce echo or background noise.

You should also turn off loud fans, heaters, air conditioners, or anything else that could create distractions.

Don’t Just Recite Your Resume

Employers can already read your resume. Your pitch video should go beyond listing accomplishments and job history.

This is your opportunity to show how you communicate, how you think, and what kind of person you are to work with.

Focus on Connection, Not Perfection

Most people feel uncomfortable on camera at first—and that’s okay.

The goal is not perfection. The goal is connection.

Employers would rather see a genuine, slightly imperfect introduction than no introduction at all. The more natural and authentic you are, the easier it becomes for someone to remember you after reviewing dozens of applications.

Sometimes, something truly is better than nothing.