Job applicants often list hobbies such as reading, cooking or going to the theatre on their CVs, even if this is not a must.
Known as “mad skills”, hobbies and skills, such as learning Fon – a language spoken in Benin, West Africa – or a passion for marathons can really make a difference when applying for a job.
“‘Mad skills’ are basically particularly rare soft skills,” says Marlene Poehlmann, managing director at a recruitment agency. “They can be anything that’s been acquired through experience, as an entrepreneur, through volunteering or through hobbies and passions like travel and sports.”
Hard skills like computer programming or data analysis are quantifiable, while professional skills are acquired through training, studies or continuing education, and can be proven with a certificate. “Mad skills”, on the other hand, are learned on sports pitches and even on the sofa.
Nowadays, “mad skills” are becoming more relevant in hiring processes, Poehlmann says. “Until now, they have not been the main hiring criteria, but more and more companies are taking account of these skills in the selection procedure.”
A person who can outline their experience of running or walking a marathon in an interview for a sales job is able to say, quite credibly: “I know what going the extra mile is like. Naturally, I am just as ambitious about my profession.”
But that is not the only aspect, says Wasensteiner. Employers may be able to establish a more diverse talent pool by keeping an eye out for “mad skills”.
Given the choice between two equally qualified applicants, Poehlmann says, “mad skills” can tip the scales in your favour, especially in professions where appearances matter.
“Naturally, technical skills are crucial for an IT department. ‘Mad skills’ may not be in demand there. But a ‘mad skill’ can be crucial for a performance-driven company that is reliant on sales.”
But before you start listing all your hobbies and interests on your CV, ask yourself: “How do they benefit me and are they actually relevant to the job that I’m applying for?”
The boundaries may not always be clear, the experts say. Only list hobbies on your CV or cover letter if you can actually relate them to the job for which you are applying.
A passion for theatre can be helpful when applying for a consulting job, Wasensteiner says. If you have learned to speak confidently in front of an audience, it makes sense to bring that up that in your cover letter and emphasise your presentation skills.
If you work as a rescue diver in your free time, you may be a great person to have around in a crisis and be able to make decisions quickly. Many jobs require such a mindset.
“Soft skills and hard skills remain decisive,” says Poehlmann. “Mad skills” are an add-on or, as Wasensteiner puts it, “the cherry on the cake”.
