Are Recruiters in Tune? An Education in Music Makes You a Better Employee.

Seeing “musician” on a résumé may not initially evoke thoughts of a stellar employee or exceptional leader. Instead, many imagine a rebellious rock star or someone struggling financially, wishing they had pursued a “real job.” However, musicians’ skillsets are far more transferable to professional workplaces than stereotypes suggest.

Many musicians work dual careers, balancing arts and non-arts roles for financial stability. A nationwide survey aimed to uncover just how well music education equips individuals for various workplaces. Preliminary interviews with dual-career musicians revealed that their musical background instilled unique and highly desirable workplace skills—validated by their non-musician colleagues.

Practice Makes Perfect

One of the most influential traits developed through music education is professionalism. In fact, 85% of survey participants cited professionalism as key to both self-expectations and work quality. This reflects the discipline musicians learn through rigorous rehearsal routines, where “early is on time, on time is late.”

Other commonly reported strengths were autonomy, resilience, perseverance, and creativity. Learning an instrument demands focused attention, discipline, and intrinsic motivation over time—traits highly valuable in today’s screen-dominated world, which often disrupts concentration and productivity.

Creativity also emerged as a standout trait, especially among jazz musicians and composers. Some studies even suggest that musicians have more neuronal matter, potentially enhancing brain activity and out-of-the-box thinking.

Teamwork and Leadership Skills

Ensemble work—whether in bands, orchestras, or chamber groups—translates directly to teamwork in the workplace. Survey respondents emphasized that these experiences taught them how to contribute to something larger than themselves.

Musical training fosters diversity appreciation, inclusivity, deep listening, respectful communication, and leadership skills. Several respondents noted that a passion for music also improved their mental health, resilience, and workplace morale. Their co-workers reported feeling energized and inspired by their musically trained colleagues.

Growth Mindset and Adaptability

Musicians’ healthy relationship with failure stood out in the survey. They embraced curiosity, learned from mistakes, and saw failure as an opportunity to improve—an attitude that’s invaluable in the workplace. This mindset also made it easier for musicians to acquire new skills. Many respondents had pursued further education or learned on the job to adapt to new careers.

Their live performance experience made them comfortable working under pressure, whether delivering presentations, managing deadlines, or leading projects. Musicians’ “the show must go on” mentality equipped them with resilience and adaptability in high-stress situations.

Co-workers validated these qualities, identifying musicians as having strong work ethics, high intelligence, initiative, and professionalism.

Musicians Across Industries

Survey participants were employed across various industries, including health, science, law, business, finance, technology, academia, transportation, government, and more. Many held leadership roles. The findings suggest hiring musicians may increase workplace productivity, innovation, and profitability.

Lessons for Educators and Policymakers

Music education nurtures skills relevant to many fields beyond the arts. However, the decline of school music programs and a greater emphasis on STEM over the arts threatens this development. Including musical skills in a National Skills Passport and ensuring widespread access to music education could be critical for future workforce success.

The next life-changing innovation may just come from a musician. Recruiters should take note.

SOURCE: The Conversation | April 14, 2024

Diana Tolmie

Senior Lecturer of Professional Practice, Griffith University

https://theconversation.com/an-education-in-music-makes-you-a-better-employee-are-recruiters-in-tune-226960

Musicians Bring Exemplary Skills to the Workplace

In a world where the value of a college degree is constantly scrutinized, it's refreshing to see a study shedding light on the often-overlooked benefits of a music education. Diana Tolmie, a Senior Lecturer of Professional Practice at Griffith University, embarked on a nationwide survey to explore how musicians leverage their skills in non-arts professions. The results? Surprisingly positive.

Tolmie's research revealed that musicians possess a unique skill set that seamlessly translates to various workplaces. Through in-depth interviews and surveys, she found that musicians, particularly those engaged in dual careers, exhibit traits highly valued by employers. These include professionalism, autonomy, resilience, creativity, and teamwork.

The foundation of these skills lies in the discipline and focus required to master an instrument over time. Whether it's showing up early for rehearsals or embracing failure as a learning opportunity, musicians demonstrate a level of commitment and adaptability that sets them apart in the professional world.

Moreover, ensemble work, such as playing in bands or orchestras, fosters collaboration and enhances interpersonal skills. Musicians learn to appreciate diversity, lead effectively, and navigate difficult conversations within a team—a testament to the holistic nature of music education.

Interestingly, Tolmie's research also highlights the positive impact of music on mental health and workplace morale. Musicians' passion for their craft translates into a positive energy that uplifts their colleagues and contributes to a vibrant work environment.

Perhaps most importantly, Tolmie emphasizes the need for educators and policymakers to recognize the value of music education beyond the arts. As school music programs face decline and tertiary education prioritizes STEM over the arts, there's a risk of neglecting a rich source of talent and innovation.

Tolmie advocates integrating music skills into national skills frameworks and ensuring access to quality music education for all students. By doing so, we not only empower aspiring musicians but also nurture a workforce equipped with essential skills for the future.

In conclusion, Tolmie's research challenges conventional stereotypes and underscores the importance of music education in shaping well-rounded individuals who thrive in diverse professional settings. As recruiters and employers reconsider their hiring criteria, it's time to tune in to the potential of musicians as valuable assets in any organization.

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Singing is good for you. Singing with others may be even better.

A June 25, 2023 article by Alexandra Moe in The Washington Post cites a “growing body of research that points to the physical and mental health benefits of singing with others.” Scientific research supports the conclusion that singing in a choir reduces stress and boosts the body’s ability to fight serious illness. Lessening anxiety, stimulating memory, fostering social bonds and more meaningful relations, singing in a choir nurtures the “total growth of the human being.”

PHOTO CAPTION

Wesley Roberson, center, rehearses with members of the Washington Chorus at the National Presbyterian Church in D.C. on May 8. (Credit: Matt McClain/The Washington Post)

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