I’m not a gamer, unless you count the hours lost playing Sid Meier’s Alpha Centauri on my PC or video pinball on my Atari Flashback. But if I were working in IT as opposed to just writing about it, new research suggests it would behoove me to play more video games.

A new survey by Robert Half Technology of more than 270 Canadian CIOs suggest they may value the time spent on gaming by entry-level IT job seekers as well as hackathons and website development. Technology leaders also see backgrounds outside of IT as beneficial to professionals in the field, including math, psychology, and business and marketing.

Web site and app development was the top stand-out skill for IT grads cited by respondents at 72 per cent, followed by hackathons at 46 per cent. Video game playing and development came in at 28 per cent. These interests as well as non-IT backgrounds are indicators that to CIOs that IT grads still have the drive and skills to succeed even if their relevant work experience is limited.

By highlighting a range of interests and abilities can help new grads stand out as being versatile and interested in developing their careers. Robert Half Technology recommends that hiring managers consider more than just work experience and academic achievements when evaluating IT grads for entry-level roles.
Meanwhile, grads should be sure to draw parallels between their pastimes and how they will add value as an employee. Managers are drawn to professionals who are naturally curious and want to learn, according to Robert Half Technology, so these traits should be emphasized in job interviews. They should also showcase their soft skills as hiring managers look for people with exceptional interpersonal abilities, such as problem solving and communication.
Turns out playing Tetris is not only good for improving dishwasher stacking skills.

Gary Hilson is a freelance writer with a focus on B2B technology, including information technology, cybersecurity, and semiconductors.