The Top 6 Non-Traditional Skills and Experiences Employers Are Looking for in Resumes

This is a common question that arises when creating resumes for job seekers or those seeking a career change or transition.

While relevant experience is critical for hiring managers, it’s important not to disregard the value of non-traditional skill sets and work experiences that can still be beneficial.

These non-traditional work experiences may reveal underlying resume skills and qualities that can benefit any job, such as leadership, work ethic, creativity, and ability to handle pressure.

Although these are often included on resumes, the key is to demonstrate these attributes with specific examples. For instance, what activities have helped you develop these qualities?

These activities may include personal hobbies, leadership roles, sports activities, or other professional/non-professional achievements.

To illustrate this point, here are our top 6 non-traditional experiences and examples of how you can highlight the value these experiences bring to potential employers on your resume:

Find out: 9 Soft Skills Employers Are Looking for in Your Resume

1. Collegiate or Competitive Athletics

Whether you were a collegiate Division I athlete, an avid marathon runner, or served as the captain of your local softball team, your athletic experiences can showcase valuable leadership and teamwork skills on your resume.

Participating in these activities demands a significant level of self-discipline, commitment, time-management, and concentration, as well as the ability to function as part of a team, train as an athlete, or engage in competitive fitness events like the Iron Man, Spartan Race, or Tough Mudder.

These skills are highly regarded by employers, who may view candidates with such abilities as potentially having a strong work ethic and a capacity for professional excellence.

When highlighting your athletic background, make sure to include any leadership roles you held, such as captain or trainer.

Such experiences emphasize your potential for leadership and work ethic. Leading an athletic team requires many of the same qualities as directing a team in a professional setting, and may distinguish you from other candidates.

To showcase your athletic achievements, consider including them in an “Additional Experience” section, or as a footnote labeled “Personal Information” at the end of your resume.

Either way, your athletic experiences can make a valuable addition to your resume, highlighting your leadership, teamwork, and commitment to success.

2. Scouts & Military Experience

Just as sports demand hard work, dedication, and training, earning a coveted title such as an Eagle Scout requires a similar level of commitment.

This achievement showcases not only one’s leadership, resourcefulness, work ethic, and time management skills but also a profound determination to succeed.

Similarly, non-traditional experience such as military service demands extensive training, discipline, and courage, which can be valuable assets in the professional world.

If your military experience relates to the position you’re applying for, you should include it under the Professional Experience section.

On the other hand, if it is not directly relevant, you can mention it briefly under the Additional Experience or Leadership sections to demonstrate your diverse skill set and leadership qualities.

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3. Diversity Training

In the current landscape of the professional world, creating a workplace that prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion has become a critical objective for many organizations.

To achieve this goal and attract top talent, many larger companies have established entire departments and roles dedicated to DEI initiatives.

However, even if you don’t have formal experience in this area, it’s important to highlight any contributions you’ve made to building a more inclusive culture within your own organization.

This can include starting working groups, internship programs, or safe spaces for employees.

In today’s professional landscape, promoting diversity and equity in the workplace is an essential part of organizational success.

And if it’s an area that you’re interested in or feel can bring value to your own organization, consider seeking out HR-related or DEI trainings that can help you become an effective advocate for diversity and inclusion.

By taking action and prioritizing these values, you can help create a more equitable and welcoming work environment for all.

4. Sommelier Training & Certification

I have come across this particular non-traditional work experience on multiple resumes, even from individuals with no prior association with the food, beverage or hospitality industry.

The reason being, obtaining a certification, especially a master designation, as a sommelier is known to be incredibly challenging.

It involves extensive and laborious studying followed by a rigorous examination.

Anyone possessing such credentials undoubtedly showcases traits such as unwavering commitment, unparalleled dedication, an exceptional ability to absorb copious amounts of detailed information, and exceptional composure even in high-pressure situations.

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5. Political / Humanitarian / Environmental Canvassing

Have you ever been approached by someone on the street asking if you “have a moment to talk about saving the planet?”

While canvassing for donations may seem like an entry-level job, the truth is that those who excel in this role do so because of their exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.

They possess the ability to connect with people on a personal level, communicate complex ideas effectively, and ultimately convince others to take action.

In short, successful canvassers are incredibly charismatic, articulate, and persuasive in their delivery.

6. Crisis Management

Managing crises can be a fundamental aspect of certain professions, particularly those in communication.

Nevertheless, even if you’ve volunteered with an organization committed to crisis or disaster relief, you’ve shown that you can lead effectively under pressure, follow instructions, respond promptly and proficiently to unexpected circumstances, and perform well in unstructured or high-stress environments.

Additionally, you may have encountered emotionally charged individuals during these experiences, indicating that you possess the qualities of a competent and tactful leader.

Many job seekers struggle to objectively evaluate their own experiences and abilities, and identify what they consider to be valuable.

To overcome this, consider enlisting the help of a trusted friend or colleague to assist you in pinpointing the most pertinent aspects to emphasize on your resume. This may include experiences from your extracurricular activities that have helped you develop the skills necessary to excel in the workplace.

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