Why Including Your Hobbies and Interests on Your Resume Can Boost Your Job Search
As job seekers, it’s essential to create a resume that stands out from the rest. One way to do this is by including your hobbies and interests on your resume. Although you might not see the connection between your hobbies and your professional life, including them on your resume can prove beneficial in several ways.
Grab the Attention of the Recruiter
Including your hobbies and interests on your resume can help you stand out among the other applicants. Most recruiters receive hundreds of resumes for one position, and they have to take quick decisions. If your resume includes an interesting hobby that’s relevant to the job role you’re applying for, it can grab the recruiter’s attention. It can help them to remember you better, giving you an edge over the rest of the applicants.
Highlight Your Skills and Traits
Your hobbies and interests on your resume can reveal a lot about your personality, skills, and interests. For instance, if you like to play sports, it can indicate that you’re a team player and know how to work collaboratively. Similarly, if you like to paint or draw, it shows that you’re creative and can think outside the box. Highlighting these traits on your resume can provide the recruiter with a glimpse of your personality and professional strengths.
Showcase Your Soft Skills
Your hobbies and interests can also showcase your soft skills, such as leadership, communication, and time management. If you hold a position in a club or organization that aligns with your interests, it shows that you have leadership skills and can manage a team. Similarly, if you have participated in public speaking events or debates, it exhibits your excellent communication and persuasion skills.
Make a Connection with the Recruiter
Including your interests and hobbies on your resume can also help you to make a personal connection with the recruiter. If the recruiter shares the same hobby or interest, it can create a bonding moment between you two. It can even lead to a more relaxed and positive interview experience, as the recruiter feels comfortable with you.
When to Avoid Including Your Hobbies and Interests
While including your hobbies and interests can be beneficial, some job roles may not require them. If you’re applying for a role that’s entirely work-oriented, such as data entry or bookkeeping, it’s best to avoid mentioning any hobbies and interests. It can give the recruiter the idea that you might not be serious about the role.
Conclusion
In conclusion, including your hobbies and interests on your resume can have a positive impact on your job search. It can help you stand out from the rest of the applicants, showcase your skills and traits, exhibit your soft skills, and create a personal connection with the recruiter. However, it’s important to note that you should only include your hobbies and interests if they’re relevant to the job role you’re applying for, and avoid them if they might not add any value to your application.
