Humanizing Job Applicants: Why Employers Ask 'Not on Your CV' Questions

When employers ask questions beyond what's on your resume or CV, they aim to understand the whole person behind the application. This article explores why employers inquire about personal interests and off-duty activities, providing insights and practical tips on how to effectively answer these types of questions.

Understanding the Purpose

The main goal of these 'not on your CV' questions is to see beyond the standard descriptions and gain a more holistic understanding of the candidate. Employers want to uncover your personal brand, your true self, and how it fits into the company culture. Asking these questions allows them to see your unique qualities, skills, and passions that you might not have explicitly highlighted in your resume.

Highlighting Your Personal Brand

Think of a compelling story that showcases your aptitude skills and aligns with the role you are applying for. For instance, if you're a chemistry student aspiring to research childhood cancers, but you are also an author of children's stories that focus on making and maintaining friendships, these activities can demonstrate a broader perspective on how you engage with children. Similarly, if you play guitar for school events and hospitals, this interest in music can reflect your dedication to helping and connecting with others.

Providing Unexpected Insights

Employers appreciate unexpected hobbies or interests that might surprise or fascinate them. For example, a nuclear physicist who is also an amateur chef, an astronomer who sky dives, or a technical expert who is a singer/songwriter or a hip-hop artist. These unique interests can make you stand out and show a more relatable and human side of yourself.

A Real-World Example

Consider this example from my work with technical professionals. Despite their impressive academic and professional accomplishments, it was challenging to present them in a way that showcased their personal side. Here are some interesting off-duty interests and activities of individual members:

An amateur professional chef An amateur astronomer A sky diver A painter A singer/songwriter An equestrian A hip-hop artist A roller-derby participant

These interests not only highlight their diverse personalities but also show that they are passionate and multifaceted individuals.

How to Effectively Answer 'Not on Your CV' Questions

To answer these questions effectively, you should focus on providing a balanced view of your professional and personal life. Here are some tips:

Choose Activities Wisely: Select hobbies or interests that are relevant or interesting to the interviewer. Avoid mundane activities that might not add value to the conversation. Link to Your Strengths: Connect your personal interests to your professional skills. For example, if you're passionate about theater, you might mention how this has enhanced your communication and teamwork skills. Be Authentic: Be genuine in your responses. Employers can spot insincerity and often appreciate authenticity. Provide Specific Details: Go beyond vague statements and provide specific examples or anecdotes to support your claims. Emphasize Team Fit: Discuss how your personal interests align with the company culture and why you would be a good fit.

Conclusion

The questions 'not on your CV' are designed to humanize your application and provide a more comprehensive picture of who you are. They help employers evaluate how well you might fit within their team and organization. By sharing your interests, skills, and passions, you can make a stronger and more memorable impression during the job interview process.