Sometimes when we read an article in a magazine, publishers often include trivia quizzes or fun facts as a way to engage readers and make the content more interesting and memorable. Including hobbies on a resume is like fun facts about the applicant that can help to achieve a similar goal.
While including hobbies on a resume may seem unconventional, it adds a personal touch that helps to humanize the applicant and provides additional context about personality and interests beyond their professional achievements.
In fact, a hiring manager once told me that he uses information about applicants’ hobbies or interests to gain insight into their personality. For example, if an applicant lists hiking and camping as a hobby, one may assume that the applicant enjoys spending time outdoors and being physically active. If the applicant lists playing video games, the candidate may enjoy problem-solving. Additionally, sharing similar interests or hobbies can build a sense of connection between the applicant and the hiring manager.
However, applicants should also be mindful of the company culture and avoid including hobbies that could be seen as controversial. For example, when applying for a job at a law firm that specializes in environmental law, listing hunting as a hobby may not be a wise decision. Similarly, for health and wellness companies, it may not be ideal to highlight hobbies such as smoking cigars and going out drinking with friends.
Therefore, job seekers should be strategic when including hobbies on their resume. If hobbies are relevant and demonstrate traits that are desirable for the position, they can be a valuable addition to the resume.
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