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

When it comes to drafting a resume, many job seekers focus solely on their work experience and education. However, adding hobbies and interests to your resume can make a significant difference and help you stand out from other applicants. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of including hobbies and interests on your resume and how they can positively influence your chances of nabbing that prized job.

1. Hobbies and Interests Showcase Your Personality

Your hobbies and interests can give potential employers a glimpse into your personality, helping them understand your work style and how you may fit in with their company culture. It’s not just your qualifications and work experience that make a strong candidate, but also your character and enthusiasm for living.

If you are someone who loves gardening, it could imply that you are someone who is diligent and detail-oriented, while someone who loves to travel may be seen as adventurous and open-minded. Adding your hobbies and interests can potentially help you establish an instant connection with the hiring manager, increasing your chances of getting an interview.

2. Hobbies and Interests Demonstrate Your Skills

Sometimes you participate in hobbies or interests that teach you valuable skills. These skills can be relevant to the job you are applying for and make your resume an even more attractive option for a potential employer.

For example, if you are proficient in a sport, you may possess teamwork, discipline, and leadership skills. Likewise, if you are skilled in playing a musical instrument, you could have developed patience and the ability to work independently. Including these skills may just make you the perfect candidate for a particular job application.

3. Hobbies and Interests Show That You Are Well-Rounded

Employers also love to see that employees have a life and are not solely focused on work. You may be a high-achieving workhorse, but showing that you have hobbies and interests outside of work can also demonstrate that you lead a balanced life.

Furthermore, taking part in other activities can help increase your creativity and bring new perspectives to your work. Thus, including hobbies and interests can show that you are a well-rounded person who can bring values such as fresh ideas and inspiration to the company.

4. Hobbies and Interests Can Create Common Ground with Interviewers

If you’re lucky, the hiring manager might have the same interest as you, leading to a connection that could help you stand out. Similar interests may also mean that you have a higher chance of fitting into the company culture or team dynamic.

Conversely, even if the interviewer does not share the same hobby or interest, by talking confidently and positively about them, you potentially portray the communication and interpersonal skills that employers look for in people.

Conclusion

Hobbies and interests aren’t just something to jot down on your resume as an afterthought; they can also serve as a unique selling point that can positively influence a potential employer’s opinion of you. With the right hobbies and interests mentioned at the right places such as under the ‘Interests’ section of your resume, they can demonstrate your personality, skills, and overall potential as a candidate. Leverage the power of hobbies and interests while drafting your resume, and give yourself a chance to set yourself apart from the competition.

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