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Video cover letter: structure, script and length

A good application video is short, concrete and sounds like you. With three building blocks and a script you do not have to memorize, that is doable. Here are the structure, an example and the technique.

By Yannik Galetto · Updated · 6 min read

When a video cover letter makes sense

A video is worth it when personality counts: unsolicited applications, customer-facing roles, small teams, start-ups. If the posting asks for a classic cover letter, deliver it and add the video as a link.

A video does not replace a proper cover letter when the process requires one. It supplements it where a personal impression makes the difference.

The structure in three parts

For 60 to 90 seconds. It should not run past two minutes.

  1. Opening (10 to 15 seconds)

    Who you are and why this company. One sentence on the reference, one on you. No “Hello, thank you for taking the time”.

  2. Proof (40 to 60 seconds)

    One concrete example that shows you can solve the role's problem: situation, what you did, result.

  3. Offer (10 to 15 seconds)

    A concrete next step: you would like to talk about a specific topic. Not “I hope to hear from you”.

Sample script (about 75 seconds)

Adapt the parts in brackets. Say it in your own words instead of reading it.

Sample scriptSelect to copy
Hello, I am [first name last name]. I read that [company] is currently
expanding [specific project or product]. I have worked on exactly that
for [period] as [role].

In my last role I took over [task/problem].
I [what you did] and thereby achieved [result with a number].
That is the same kind of task described in your posting.

I would like to talk with you about how I would approach [specific topic from
the posting] at [company]. You will find my documents attached.
Thank you.

Choose the level of formality to match the posting and the company website.

Tech tips that make a difference

  • Camera at eye level, face in the upper third of the frame.
  • Light from the front, for example a window in front of you, not behind you.
  • Calm background. Tidy is enough, you do not need a studio.
  • Sound matters more than picture: quiet room, microphone close enough, no echoing walls.
  • Use the script as support, not as text to read out. Look at the camera as much as possible.
  • Record two or three takes and use the best.

Common mistakes

  • Too long: after 90 seconds attention drops.
  • Too general: statements that would apply to any company.
  • The CV read out loud. The video supplements it, it does not repeat it.
  • No offer at the end. Then it stays unclear what the next step is.

Create the script with Pathly

Pathly drafts a script from the job posting and your resume, you add your personal angle and record in the browser with a teleprompter. You can see the workflow on the video letter page.

Frequently asked questions

How long should an application video be?

About 60 to 90 seconds. With Pathly you can record up to two minutes.

Should I be formal or informal?

Follow the posting and the company website. In doubt, formal is usual in classic industries and informal in start-ups and tech.

Do I have to look into the camera?

As often as possible, yes. A glance at the script now and then is normal as long as you do not read the whole time.

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