When it comes to writing a resume, one of the most common questions job seekers have is whether or not to include hobbies and interests. On one hand, it can add some personal flair to your application and help you stand out. On the other hand, it may not be relevant to the job you’re applying for and could potentially hurt your chances. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of including hobbies and interests in your resume.
Pros:
- Shows Personality and Interests
Including your hobbies and interests in your resume can show a potential employer that you’re a well-rounded individual with a life outside of work. It can also give insight into your personality and interests, which can be useful for companies that value cultural fit and team collaboration.
- Sets You Apart
Including unique hobbies or interests in your resume can help you stand out from other applicants. For example, if you’re applying for a marketing position and have experience as a professional DJ, this could set you apart from other candidates and show that you have skills and experience that may be applicable to the job.
- Demonstrates Transferable Skills
Certain hobbies or interests can also demonstrate transferable skills that may be valuable in the workplace. For example, if you enjoy playing team sports, this could show that you’re a team player and have experience collaborating with others towards a common goal.
Cons:
- Takes Up Valuable Space
In a resume, space is valuable real estate. Including hobbies and interests can take up valuable space that could be used to highlight your skills and experience related to the job you’re applying for. In some cases, it may be better to leave this information out and focus on what’s most relevant to the job.
- Can Be Irrelevant
While some hobbies and interests can be relevant to the job you’re applying for, others may not be. If the information doesn’t add value to your application or doesn’t showcase any relevant skills or experience, it may be better to leave it out.
- May Create Bias
Including hobbies and interests in your resume can also potentially create bias. For example, if you include a hobby that’s typically associated with a certain race or gender, it may lead to unconscious bias from the hiring manager. It’s important to consider how the information you include in your resume could potentially impact your chances of getting the job.
In conclusion, whether or not to include hobbies and interests in your resume ultimately depends on your individual circumstances. If you have unique hobbies or interests that demonstrate transferable skills or show your personality, it may be worth including. However, if the information is not relevant to the job or takes up valuable space, it may be better to leave it out.
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