Finding a job through my hobbies

Mentioning hobbies on your CV is still a subject of debate. Not all interests are useful when looking for a job. Yet, some prove to be decisive when choosing between two candidates with equal skills. Others might just land you your very first job! Hobbies are great tools for finding work. Doubting their usefulness and the impact they can have on your career path? Discover how to make the most of them.

Acquiring skills and soft skills

Extra-professional activities and personal interests are generally not given much weight during recruitment in France. Yet, they play an essential role in choosing a candidate. Every non-work experience (sports, volunteering, community involvement...) holds a skill or soft skill that can be transferred to your future job.

Theater builds charisma and eloquence—qualities sought after for sales positions. Yoga or Aikido promotes calm, focus, and self-control: ideal when looking for rope access technician assignments.

And there are plenty of examples: volunteering enhances interpersonal skills and empathy. Running marathons boosts endurance and perseverance. Painting reveals creativity.

Make the most of your passions! They draw upon skills and qualities that can be useful in a professional setting.

Success story: JC.D, 33 years old, Rennes

As a young man passionate about music, JC.D taught himself to play guitar and drums. He progressed, formed several bands, and toured small venues and European festivals.

Experienced in handling musical equipment transport, logistics, and band management for all his concerts, he landed a job as a stage manager at a major performing arts venue.

Expanding your network

Hobbies are an effective way to expand your professional and personal network, provided you practice an activity within a group or association.

Mention your job search to your group members and use them as stepping stones to employment.

Some activities even allow you to qualify your contacts. A shared passion for photography can bring together many creatives (web designers, graphic designers, etc.). Values of respect and ecology might bring together a former scout and the head of an environmental company. Who knows where it all might lead?

Sparking the recruiter's interest

Whether you submit your CV to a temporary staffing agency or meet an HR representative from a recruitment firm, only discuss hobbies and interests with your recruiter that provide valuable insight into your soft skills or technical know-how. Do you compete in sports? The recruiter will note that you have a competitive mindset. Were you an au pair abroad? You likely speak a foreign language, and so on.

Discovering a career path

“Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life,” as the saying goes. What if that’s the answer? What if your passion could simply become your main activity and generate income? Before considering a career change, carry out a skills assessment (don't hesitate to contact your Actual advisor) and turn to various organizations capable of providing information, such as chambers of trades and crafts.

Success story: C.D., 36 years old, Nantes

An osteopath on long-term sick leave, C.D. threw himself wholeheartedly into sewing. One thing led to another, and he developed a passion for leatherworking. The obvious became clear: this was the work in which he felt fully fulfilled. After research and careful consideration, he began training in leather goods craftsmanship, with a strong likelihood of employment at the end.

Success story: C.J., 45 years old, Rennes

An up-and-coming rugby player, C.J. had to interrupt his career due to injuries and a demanding job as a telecoms technician. Newly arrived in a new region, he offered to coach the local club's junior team. Noticed by the club president for his commitment, he became the coach for the senior team, which climbed the ranks up to the national level. C.J. is now paid by the club.

Whether you use your hobbies as tools for a first job search or to start a business and change your life, showcase your passion! Every bit of experience counts!

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