Including hobbies and interests on your resume can offer insights into your personality and fit for a role. Here’s when and how to include them effectively.
1. When to Include Hobbies and Interests
Cultural Fit: If your hobbies align with the company culture or values, including them can demonstrate that you’re a good fit for the organization.
Personal Branding: Hobbies can help paint a fuller picture of who you are beyond your professional qualifications, making you more relatable to potential employers.
Networking Opportunities: Common interests can serve as conversation starters during interviews, helping you connect with the interviewer.
2. When to Leave Them Out
Irrelevant or Controversial Hobbies: Avoid including hobbies that are irrelevant to the job or could be considered controversial. Focus on those that reflect positively on your character.
Space Limitations: If your resume is already full and you lack significant professional experience, it may be better to focus solely on your skills and achievements.
3. How to Include Hobbies and Interests
Create a Dedicated Section: Consider adding a brief section titled “Hobbies and Interests” at the end of your resume. Use bullet points for clarity.
Be Specific: Rather than vague terms like “sports” or “reading,” specify the activities (e.g., “running marathons” or “reading contemporary fiction”). This gives more insight into your interests.
Relate to the Job: If applicable, tie your hobbies back to the skills relevant to the job. For example, if you lead a community sports team, highlight your leadership and teamwork skills.
Conclusion
Including hobbies and interests on your resume can enhance your personal brand and provide additional context for your professional qualifications. By knowing when to include them and how to present them effectively, you can create a well-rounded resume that resonates with potential employers.