How Having a Hobby Can Help Your Career
Professional Career Advice
August 7th 2018
When you’re meeting with an Executive Recruiter for a position, it’s important to remember that you’re likely not the only candidate for the job. You might have an amazing resume, all of the right qualifications and more experience than the other prospects. However, making a personal connection with a job interviewer can go a long way to ensuring that your interview is memorable when it comes time to review each applicant.
Your achievements, years of experience and qualifications can be summed up quite quickly and often paint only a small part of the picture. Your interests and hobbies are what truly tell the story of who you are as an individual and are what will make you shine in the interview room. They show your personality, your creativity, your drive, passion and hidden talents.
Your hobbies can indicate that you are social, that you get on well with people, that you can overcome adversity and that you are dedicated to the things you set your mind to.
Continue reading to learn how having a hobby can help you to showcase your skills, as well as your personality, to an Executive Recruiter and land you that position.
“Your hobbies can indicate that you are social, that you get on well with people, that you can overcome adversity and that you are dedicated to the things you set your mind to.”
Build a Rapport
The interests and hobbies that you list on your resume will help you to build a rapport with the Executive Recruiter as soon as you step foot in the room. You may feel that you don’t have any relevant or interesting hobbies to share, however, anything can be applicable if put the right way.
For example, if you paint or play music, this shows a creative side to your personality and will help set you apart from the other candidates. If you are part of a sports team, it shows you can get on with people of different ages and backgrounds. No matter what it is, you can use your hobbies to help build a personal rapport with the interviewer and make a positive connection.
Show Commitment and Passion
Being dedicated to a pursuit takes time, energy and effort. Whether you surf, golf, play piano or dance, being involved in a hobby shows that you are a committed individual. Job Recruiters will look at this favourably as they will want to hire a someone who will be committed to the goals of the company. If you can drag yourself out of bed every morning to swim or commit to two nights of football training a week, that shows a passionate and dedicated side to your character.
Ability to Set Goals
Setting goals is an important part of being in an executive job position. You need to be able to set both personal goals and objectives for those on your team and working within the organisation. Having a hobby indicates that you are capable of setting goals and taking steps to move towards them. Perhaps you have won some awards, trophies or medals in your activity of choice? If so, this further highlights your ability to work towards goals and to succeed in doing so.
Showcase Your Abilities Through Your Hobbies
Talent Recruiters are always looking for someone with an extra edge, something special that makes them stand out from other job applicants. Your hobbies and interests can help you in achieving that. From team sports to individual pursuits, how you spend your time away from the workplace can go a long way to showing how much you are truly worth when you’re there.
Looking for Help Preparing for your Next Career Move?
If you are looking for a professional recruitment team who can help you prepare for a new career change, contact our office today.
