Listing Games as a Hobby

Kosmiche · 15 Jan 2011 at 16:53

I'm currently writing an application form for a "Computer Software Technician" job, the form asks to list my hobbies and interests.

I know I should write computing as a hobby as thats relevant, but should I go as far to say I enjoy playing pc games?

I'm not sure if I should include it or not, I'm sure this will reveal itself at some point if I get the job (dogtired after an allnight raiding sesh) so should I just come straight out with it?

Anyone know if they will turn their noses up if I say I'm a "keen games player", as thats what I'm thinking of to put down.

Thanks

Parsifal · 15 Jan 2011 at 16:56

If they do they aren't worth working for.

Kosmiche · 15 Jan 2011 at 16:57

I'm thinking I'll leave it out, not much going for me

The Halk · 15 Jan 2011 at 16:57

Might as well put down "Amateur Paedophile" if you're going to put down gamer - unless the person who reads the application form also plays games.

Kenai · 15 Jan 2011 at 16:58

I wouldn't put it on a CV or application, it still has the association of being for teenagers, loners and social recluses throughout vast swathes of the public. Unless you're lucky enough for it to be viewed by another gamer, it'll be viewed as a negative IMO.

Probably rightly so though, if you would actually stay up all night on a work night just to raid on WoW, that's not being a gamer - that's just sad

p4radox · 15 Jan 2011 at 16:59

I'd leave it out.

J.B · 15 Jan 2011 at 16:59

I dont think putting computer gaming as a hobby is too bad providing its not your only hobby!

Gaz1988 · 15 Jan 2011 at 17:00

if it doesnt boost your application.. leave it out.

bsoltan · 15 Jan 2011 at 17:02

Playing games is on my CV. At one interview they even asked me what games I played.

Cosimo · 15 Jan 2011 at 17:02

You CV won’t be enhanced by putting down something that you do in the confines of your bedroom.

The Halk · 15 Jan 2011 at 17:03

bsoltan said:
Playing games is on my CV. At one interview they even asked me what games I played.

I hope you replied "GTA! I love doing in the prossies with a crowbar so I can get my money back"

Kosmiche · 15 Jan 2011 at 17:06

Oh thats worrying, what if they ask me what games I like, then I'll say COD 4 and they will think of me as violent or something.

Darkstaruk · 15 Jan 2011 at 17:06

Some people put TV down as a hobby and of course they stay unemployed forever...

The Halk · 15 Jan 2011 at 17:07

Eames said:
Oh thats worrying, what if they ask me what games I like, then I'll say COD 4 and they will think of me as violent or something.

Yeah, say "I like any games that allow me to reach deadlines on time, and work well as a team"

Kosmiche · 15 Jan 2011 at 17:08

Or if I say microsoft flight simulator, they will think of me as dead clever.

The Halk · 15 Jan 2011 at 17:10

Eames said:
Or if I say microsoft flight simulator, they will think of me as dead clever.

Would they? Or would they think of you as the trainspotter type?

Randomface74 · 15 Jan 2011 at 17:11

It only works if the recruiter thinks playing games helps you do your job better - which it rarely does.

Leave it out.

killerk · 15 Jan 2011 at 17:12

Put down you are "very" interested in aspects of computing and just hope they dont ask questions.lol

Raymond Lin · 15 Jan 2011 at 17:14

The Halk said:
Would they? Or would they think of you as the trainspotter type?

Or terrorist ! :eek:

Side note, my old copy of MFS has the twin towers in it!

Trifid · 15 Jan 2011 at 17:16

simulatorman said:
You CV won’t be enhanced by putting down something that you do in the confines of your bedroom.

I also wouldn't recommend putting dogging either...

In all seriousness try to think of more sociable or challenging hobbies (play an instrument). If you still can't think of anything take up an instrument or join a gym, go jogging.