Talking about videogames in interview?

I know it's quite taboo to mention videogames in an interview setting (risk of them thinking you're a nerd), but I'm still debating whether my experience is valid enough to bring up.

To give background, I achieved the highest rank and placed consistently among the top 100 players (leaderboard) in a popular multiplayer team game (think League/Valorant/Overwatch), led/captained multiple teams (one of those being my university team) and won some regional tournaments. 

Obviously depends on how I sell myself but any thoughts? Is it too risky to bring up as a story?

15 Comments
 

I’ve been told if you’re in the top 1-2%, which you seem to be, it’s fair game to include in interests on your resume and bring up. It still shows dedication to a craft, and your rank is also impressive. Believe some schools in the states also have varsity teams for certain games, so surely it’s becoming more common. Obviously, would read the audience and use best judgment.

 

Yeah, I'm friends with a nationally ranked chess player (top 20 or so for age group) who told me all trading firms love it. I assume banking would as well, as it shows talent and work ethic

 

is it actually taboo lol? i don’t play any video games and haven’t ever really been too into it, but how is that any less valid than saying you like a certain TV show, novel, or something?

 

I've brought it up a few times (not top 100, but somewhat close), and it's hit or miss whether interviewers are interested. No harm in it though imo.

Those who are somewhat boomer seem intrigued and want to learn more, rather than just brush it off.

Ironically it's only the real hardos in interviews who do not give a f.

 
Most Helpful

It really depends on the interviewer. In one of my IB interviews I ended up talking about Shadowrun and Planescape with an analyst for a bit. Better chances with younger guys, but I’ve also talked to my boomer managing partner about his time raiding in WoW during BC and Wrath. Use your judgement of who to bring it up to. I like edm & techno but understand that it doesn’t resonate with everyone.

I think you could bring up the team aspect of competitive gaming as an anecdote if you are also drawing on your professional experiences for most of your interview.

 

I have video games as an interest on my resume and has come up in many interviews and never in a bad way. I was a halo 3 pro in my teenage years, traveling around playing in MLG tournaments, also then switched to gears of war and did some fornite but never at a high pro level for that one. I frame it to show I’m very competitive, have teamwork skills and dedication. I dont think it’s ever been something held against me since I frame it in a great light. I’m sure if you do the same, it won’t hurt you and if it does, it’s not someone you want to work for anyways.

 

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