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Ever been in interviews for IT jobs and been asked about your hobbies? Most IT contractors have probably had to answer this question at least once in their careers. Maybe they even have it listed on their resumes. It seems like a softball, an easy question meant to put IT consultants at ease before having to answer the hard questions. But IT professionals can use their hobbies as one more way to show IT recruiters, IT staffing firms, and hiring managers how perfect they are for jobs. How?

Pay attention to a few things when you’re applying to a job. Try to figure out what the corporate culture is like at the company or organization the job is at. Also try to get a better idea of what kind of personal qualities would really help in the job functions (like being great at teamwork, for instance). Once you get a clear picture of these things, run through your hobbies in your mind. Do any of them give you qualities that would be an asset here?

Here are a few examples.  For a team lead position, you may want to highlight an activity that very obviously helps you develop leadership skills (like being a team captain for a recreational sports team). Another example: perhaps you do something in your spare time that requires a lot of discipline. Don’t be afraid to mention that (although try not to spend more than a few moments mentioning it in passing!) when interviewing for a job that requires you to work independently and reach goals.

Your hobbies cannot miraculously make up for any professional or experiential deficiencies. They can add a few extra points in your favor if you find the right way to talk about them, though!