DIY Skills in the Mind of a Software Engineer Recruiter

When hiring a software engineer, will a candidate with strong home improvement DIY skills add any significant extra credit? The answer is: probably not, but it could be interesting to discuss.

Impact on Hiring Decision

While it might seem like an interesting trait, a candidate's DIY skills would likely not significantly impact the hiring decision. There are many more critical factors to consider, such as their technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and relevant experience. Additionally, a list of additional skills and hobbies is often included to provide a more personal touch, but it typically doesn't carry much weight in the final decision.

However, let's look at this from a more positive perspective. Having DIY skills might not sway the decision, but it also doesn't detract from the candidate's qualifications. It simply means a bit of unused real estate on the CV, which could potentially be used to highlight technical skills or relevant experience.

Positive Aspects

From a personal standpoint, having strong DIY skills might make a candidate more relatable and familiar. A hiring manager who is also a DIY enthusiast might find a candidate with similar interests more approachable and engaging in conversation. It might also demonstrate that the candidate is a hardworking and practical individual, valuable qualities in a software engineer.

In certain scenarios, this skill set could be beneficial. For example, if the hiring company is developing software for the building trades industry, a candidate with DIY skills might have a unique perspective that could lead to innovative and practical solutions. Additionally, if the candidate has engaged in charity work or other community projects, this might also be a positive point worth highlighting.

Best Practices

For the best results, it is recommended to leave DIY skills off the CV unless the interviewer brings it up. Including hobbies and additional skills can provide a more rounded view of the candidate, but they shouldn't overshadow technical achievements. If the CV is primarily focused on DIY activities with no technical expertise, it might be worth considering a different approach to presenting these skills.

Conclusion

While DIY skills are certainly a positive attribute in many ways, they might not significantly impact the hiring decision for a software engineer. However, they can provide a unique perspective and might be valuable in certain specific circumstances. Ultimately, it's best to focus on technical skills and experience that are directly relevant to the role in question.