Beware of or Embrace Virtual Media-Rich Resumes
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Recruiters and hiring managers either love or hate virtual resumes. Let’s examine a few pros and cons:

PRO

Particularly useful for people in non-standard careers such as creative arts, entertainment industry, or a vast range of marketing positions where video and/or audio work product can demonstrate expertise and competencies.
Helps executives with long career histories showcase their talents in more depth. Not restricted by length as with standard resumes that follow one to two page guidelines.

Ability to embed video, images, audio and portfolio presentations that showcase the media you offer relevant to the job seeker’s desired position or highlight your expertise in focused areas.

CON

Cannot be customized for each position or industry. While you may have separate pages in the online resume dedicated to different industries, your strengths may be diluted and not specific enough for some positions.
Videos may do more harm than good if they are too long (over 2 minutes) and if not created professionally or with high quality content and form. They may make you look like an amateur and not the executive expert you truly are.
Can open up the door for identity theft. Don’t be tempted to use your physical address (city and state are sufficient) on the online resume. Be cautious and create a contact email address that is unique and only used for job search.
Most all employers and recruiters now check a potential candidate’s LinkedIn profile before considering that person for an open executive position. Since LinkedIn has revolutionized the virtual resume, there really isn’t a need to pursue other online resume options.

Not only is a LinkedIn member’s photo included on their profile, but robust career content is also encouraged. And there is the option to attach a traditional resume to a LinkedIn profile, along with other media such as videos, audio, slideshows, etc. Be sure to check out other online resume options to make sure you are presenting your strengths and talents in the best way possible.

The world is not ready to give up the traditional paper resume just yet, despite rumors that have been flying around for years. No matter which resume medium you choose to use, a traditional paper resume is always a good option to keep on hand in case the position of your dreams presents itself. And, you should always link your online resume or LinkedIn profile link to the traditional resume for “more information.”