Why should you include hobbies and interests?

Majority of jobseekers will add a hobbies and interests section on their CV. This part of your CV gives the reader a window (or a keyhole) into your personal interests. Who knows, you may share some of these interests or hobbies with your interviewer, and will have more to talk about during the interview! We know someone who mentioned that she does belly dance on her CV. During the interview she found out her future supervisor – she got the job – also takes belly dance classes. The industry she was being interviewed for is not dance related.

As you can imagine they shimmied well together. So never underestimate the power of this part of your CV.

What are more examples of hobbies one can include?

You can use this chance to show off your creative side. Mention that you enjoy photography, painting or sewing (if that’s what you do). If it’s blogging that you’re into – and if you are applying for a writer’s role – you may use this chance to showcase your work. Whatever you add, try to be honest. That’s unless your hobbies are something that makes your potential employer or a recruiter judge you negatively.

Don’t be boring and include work-related activities. Majority of recruiters and employers will guess that you are not spending your weekends doing office tasks. If you spend your entire weekend at the pub; avoid adding this, too. Even if your future employer does the same, they are not going to appreciate it.

Where should the hobbies section go?

Your hobbies and interests should be on the last section on your CV, after you’ve written the most important sections. Keep it brief and clean. You can use short sentences, if you have enough space – remember your CV should be no more than two pages. You can also use bullet points.

If you would like one of our experts to give you a free CV review, please get in contact.