5 Common Mistakes HR Teams Make When Creating Company Culture Videos
In today’s hiring landscape, job seekers don’t just apply, instead they research about their potential workplace. They look you up on LinkedIn, skim your Glassdoor reviews, and yes they watch your videos.
That’s why more HR teams are turning to company culture videos as a way to stand out and build trust. But here’s the catch: when done poorly, these videos can actually turn talent away instead of drawing them in.
Here are 5 common missteps that HR and People teams make when creating culture videos and how to avoid them.
1. Trying to Sound Like a Commercial
The Mistake:
Overly polished scripts, generic buzzwords like “dynamic environment” or “innovative culture”—they make your video sound like an ad, not a reflection of your people.
The Fix:
Ditch the corporate jargon. Let real employees talk, in their own words. Authenticity builds connection. Focus on moments, not marketing.
2. Making It All About the Perks
The Mistake:
Pool tables, snacks, bean bags, happy hours, they’re fun but they don’t tell candidates anything meaningful about your culture.
The Fix:
Shift the spotlight from perks to people. Show how your team collaborates, celebrates wins, supports each other, and lives your core values day to day.
3. Ignoring the Candidate's Point of View
The Mistake:
Videos that feel like internal celebrations might be great for employees but fall flat for candidates who are trying to figure out, “Would I belong here?”
The Fix:
Think like a job seeker. What would you want to know if you were applying? Include stories about growth, leadership support, team dynamics, and real challenges.
4. Lack of Story or Structure
The Mistake:
A lot of culture videos are just stitched together clips with no flow, no context, and no takeaway. They feel more like a montage than a message.
The Fix:
Start with a concept. Build a story arc and show who you are, how you work, why it matters. Even a short 60-second video can tell a meaningful story when structured right.
5. Not Investing in the Right Help
The Mistake:
DIY videos may save time and money but poor sound, bad lighting, and shaky footage can reflect badly on your brand.
The Fix:
If talent is a priority, then so is how you present your culture. Partnering with professionals can elevate your message and ensure you’re putting your best foot forward.
The Bottom Line
Your culture video is not just a “nice-to-have” piece of content, it’s a digital doorway into your workplace. When done right, it builds trust, attracts aligned talent, and sets the tone for a great candidate experience.
Don’t just showcase your company. Tell a story your future employees can see themselves in.
Want Help Telling That Story?
At Fat Rabbit Productions, we work closely with HR and Employer Branding teams to create real, human-first culture videos that get results. If you're looking to bring your people and values to life on screen, we’d love to collaborate. Schedule a call with us now!
