Every detail and information you provide on your resume in today’s competitive market matters. Hobbies and interests can easily help you stand out from the crowd of job applicants because they show an individual’s personality and character to the recruiter. Listing Hobbies and Interests on your resume gives the hiring manager insight into your work ethic, more so if you are changing careers or lack a lot of work experience.
Knowing which Interests and Hobbies to list on your resume has proven to be a challenge for most job seekers. This guide will dive deep into the do’s and don’ts when listing interests and hobbies on your resume. Read on to find out how Including some of your passions in your resume could help boost your chances of impressing your hiring manager.
How to List Hobbies and Interests on Your Resume
Hobbies and Interests add weight to your resume making it more captivating to your hiring managers. They should occupy the final section of your resume since they are simply an addition. Below are a few pointers to consider when listing your hobbies and interests on your resume;
- Research the company- get to understand the culture of your employer and list hobbies and interests that are a perfect fit,
- Choose hobbies and interests that emphasize your skill set
- Make a list of 2-5 hobbies in bullet point form
- Create a separate section titled Hobbies and Interests and place it at the far end of your resume
When to List Hobbies and Interests on Your Resume
In other cases, including a list of your hobbies and interests may offer minimal value to your resume, such as if you have sufficient professional experience and expertise. So, when should you include your interests and hobbies on your resume? You should consider including a list of your hobbies and Interests on your resume when;
- Your resume lacks relevant work and educational experience
- Your prospective employer values the traits and personalities of all employees.
- You are new to the job market and have little or no professional experience.
- Your skills are limited in comparison to the job you are applying for.
- Your hobbies and interests are relevant to the job description and requirements.
Tips for Including Interests and Hobbies on Your Resume
The primary objective of including a list of hobbies and interests on your resume is to present yourself as a worthy and competent individual who is compatible with the values and culture of the intended firm or organization. Here are some pointers you should consider when drafting your hobbies and interests section of your resume:
1. Be Honest
Lying on your resume in any way is against all professional ethics, be honest and truthful about the hobbies and interests you list. Being dishonest merely places a target on your back that may come back to haunt you later.
2. Be Specific
Stick to a few hobbies and describe them briefly, the more specific and sincere an individual is, the higher their chances of leaving an impression on their recruiter.
3. Don’t force it
If you are unable to name any specific hobby or interest, leave them out unless specifically asked to include them in the job description or by your potential employer.
Examples of hobbies and interests to include on your resume
Here are a few examples of hobbies and interests you can use to guide you when creating a list of your interests and hobbies in your resume:
- Cooking or baking
- Exercising
- Playing an instrument
- Travel
- Writing or blogging
- Foreign languages
- Woodwork
- Sports
Get Advice from experts today
Choosing the right hobbies and interests to mention on your resume in 2024 may be a difficult task, most industries and companies tend to focus more on the work experiences and skills an applicant possesses. Include a hobbies and interests section only where necessary and applicable as explained in this guide.
Remember to use bullet points and solely stress aspects that are relevant to the position, work department, or organization you are applying for. Looking for professional help with your resume writing? We’ve got you covered! Reach out to us today and get to experience outstanding resume writing services.
