The consoling truth: Why videogaming experience could make you more employable

Job applicants who are self-confessed gamers could be at an advantage if they play their cards right. According to Ofcom’s Online Nation 2022 Report, nearly three quarters (71%) of people aged between 16 and 24 play games online. Although playing computer games often comes with some negative connotations, and there is the risk of gaming addiction, when used wisely, this hobby could help individuals when it comes to their job search.

Recent research carried out by YouTube revealed that more than two in five (63%) recruiters would be impressed by a candidate who uses their interest in gaming to support the development of crucial skills. On top of this, over half (56%) of recruiters surveyed would be more likely to hire someone who cites videogaming experience on their CV, and crucially illustrates how it has allowed them to build transferable skills that are valuable in the workplace.
 

Why gaming experience is impressive

At a surface level, gaming experience on a person’s CV portrays them as an interesting potential employee. However, it’s not enough to mention the fact they play videogames in their free time; instead, gamers ought to consider how it contributes to depicting them as a desirable candidate to be snapped up in today’s competitive market.

Employers will be impressed by candidates who are able to recognise the parallels between the game at hand and what they will face in the workplace, and what is needed to succeed in both settings.

For instance, determined gamers often dedicate time to building a strategy to overcome obstacles and progress through levels to achieve rewards. They could describe their enthusiasm to utilise this attitude in a professional environment, to map out a plan of action to meet specific goals, face challenges head-on and, when it comes to the bigger picture, strive for career progression.

Applicants could also outline how their gaming experience is relevant to the role they’re applying for. This not only demonstrates their thought-process behind including it in their CV, but illustrates a clear understanding of the specific responsibilities involved and why they’re a great match for the position.  

The same stands for any hobbies or interests that candidates include as part of their job application. Whilst CVs with a personal touch are more likely to stand out, and the hiring manager gets a positive snapshot of who the applicant is as a person, the information included should correlate, to some extent, to the role in question.
 

Why experience makes you more employable  

Given that recruiters assess what a candidate can bring to the table to benefit an organisation, videogaming experience could certainly provide someone with a wide skillset that is transferable in the workplace. Some of the valuable skills acquired through gaming include:

• Analytical thinking
• Problem-solving
• Creativity
• Strong communication
• Ability to work well in a team
• Confidence to work independently
• Perseverance
• Staying calm under pressure
• Willingness to learn
• Adaptability

Ofcom’s research also reveals that 67% of 16 to 24-year-old console gamers say that they play with or against someone else, so the ways in which this social element could positively impact employability should not be underestimated.

A person who references their commitment to gaming on their CV or brings it up in an interview proves they have things outside of work that are proud of and passionate about: crucial traits that recruiters look for to be similarly applied in a professional role.
 

The winning sectors for gamers

The skills attained through videogaming can be relevant in today’s job market and the gaming industry has been credited with helping to encourage people into the tech sector, especially in areas which are skill-short such as development. Hackathons, for example, are generating a clear crossover between both gaming and coding communities. 

In our digital age, being tech savvy – a likely skill amongst video gamers – will enable professionals to progress along many different career paths. That being said, the transferable skills aforementioned are essential across a number of industries. For instance, the ability to problem solve is imperative for several roles, whether that be overcoming issues and finding solutions as an accountant, a lawyer, or a teacher.

The bottom line is, videogaming experience can certainly help to portray a person as impressive and employable, but the real craft lies in being clear about how it has allowed them to develop important skills that will facilitate success in the real world of work.