In the competitive world of job hunting, applicants are constantly looking for ways to stand out from the crowd. While traditional qualifications and experience are important, many job seekers are now turning to their hobbies and unique skills to make a lasting impression on potential employers. This trend of highlighting „mad skills“ on CVs is gaining traction, as recruiters are increasingly recognizing the value that these unconventional talents can bring to a team.
Marlene Poehlmann, a managing director at a recruitment agency, defines „mad skills“ as particularly rare soft skills that are acquired through experience, entrepreneurship, volunteering, or hobbies and passions. These skills go beyond traditional hard and professional skills, as they are often learned in non-traditional settings such as sports fields or through personal interests like travel and sports.
Gaby Wasensteiner, a career expert with LinkedIn, emphasizes that „mad skills“ are not just personal character traits, but rather special skills that can set an applicant apart from others. These unique abilities can bring a fresh perspective to a team and demonstrate a candidate’s willingness to go above and beyond in their work.
Employers are starting to take notice of the value that „mad skills“ can bring to their organizations. While technical skills are crucial in certain industries like IT, „mad skills“ can be a deciding factor in professions where creativity, adaptability, and interpersonal skills are highly valued. For example, a passion for theatre or public speaking can be beneficial in consulting roles, while experience as a rescue diver can demonstrate quick decision-making and crisis management abilities.
When considering whether to include hobbies and interests on a CV, it’s important to assess their relevance to the job at hand. While a love for beekeeping or playing a unique musical instrument may not always be directly related to a specific role, these interests can still showcase valuable qualities such as dedication, creativity, and a willingness to learn new things. Ultimately, „mad skills“ should be seen as an additional bonus to traditional soft and hard skills, adding a unique touch to an applicant’s profile.
In conclusion, the concept of „mad skills“ is reshaping the way job seekers present themselves to potential employers. By highlighting their unconventional talents and passions, applicants can demonstrate their creativity, adaptability, and willingness to go the extra mile. While traditional qualifications are still important, „mad skills“ can be the cherry on top of a well-rounded CV, helping candidates stand out in a competitive job market.