Why Including Your Hobbies and Interests Can Make a Difference in Your Resume

Why Including Your Hobbies and Interests Can Make a Difference in Your Resume

When it comes to building an impressive resume, there are a variety of factors that can impact whether or not you get called in for an interview. While your work experience and education are undoubtedly important, there’s another aspect that many job-seekers overlook: their hobbies and interests.

At first glance, it might seem like your hobbies have little to do with your professional qualifications. However, including these details on your resume can actually make you a more attractive candidate in the eyes of potential employers. Here’s why:

Showcasing Your Personality

One of the key reasons to include your hobbies and interests on your resume is that it provides a glimpse into your personality. Hiring managers are often looking for candidates who are not only qualified for the job, but who are also a good fit for the company culture. By sharing a bit about yourself beyond your professional experience, you can give them a better sense of who you are as a person and whether or not you’d be a good match for the team.

Demonstrating Transferable Skills

Another benefit of including your hobbies on your resume is that it can demonstrate transferable skills. Even if your hobbies don’t seem directly related to the job you’re applying for, they may showcase qualities that could be valuable in the workplace. For example, if you’re an avid backpacker, this could demonstrate your self-sufficiency, problem-solving skills, and ability to handle unexpected challenges. Similarly, if you’re involved in a team sport, this could indicate that you work well with others and are a natural leader.

Highlighting Your Passion

Finally, including your hobbies on your resume can help to highlight your passion for your chosen field. If you’re applying for a job in marketing, for example, sharing that you enjoy creating social media campaigns or analyzing consumer behavior in your free time can help you stand out as someone who is truly passionate about the work. This can be especially valuable if you don’t have much professional experience in your desired field, but still want to demonstrate your expertise and enthusiasm.

In conclusion, including hobbies and interests on your resume can be a valuable way to showcase your personality, transferable skills, and passion for your chosen field. When deciding which details to include, be sure to choose hobbies that are both relevant and meaningful to you, and that demonstrate qualities that would make you a strong candidate for the job. By doing so, you’ll be sure to catch the eye of hiring managers and increase your chances of landing that dream job!