When it comes to crafting a solid CV, showcasing your hobbies and interests can be a great way to make a positive impression on potential employers. However, not all hobbies and interests are created equal – some may be more relevant and impressive to employers than others. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best hobbies and interests to include on your CV to help you stand out from the crowd and make a strong case for why you’re the ideal candidate for the job.
The Importance of Hobbies and Interests on a CV
When it comes to creating a standout CV, many job seekers focus solely on their work experience and education. However, including hobbies and interests on a CV can actually help you stand out from the crowd and showcase your personality and unique skills. Adding relevant hobbies can show that you are a well-rounded person with interests outside of work, while also highlighting transferable skills that could be beneficial to the job you are applying for.
Debunking the Misconceptions
There are some misconceptions that including hobbies and interests on a CV is unprofessional, unnecessary, or even detrimental. However, when done correctly, it can actually be a valuable addition. Of course, it is important to be mindful of the hobbies and interests you include, ensuring they are appropriate for the job and industry you are applying for.
How to Choose the Right Hobbies and Interests
When deciding which hobbies and interests to include on your CV, it is important to consider the relevance and transferable skills they provide. For example, if you are applying for a job in a creative industry, including hobbies such as painting, photography, or music can show off your creative skills. Similarly, if you are applying for a job in a team-based environment, including team sports such as football or basketball can demonstrate your ability to work well with others.
The Dos and Don’ts of Choosing Hobbies and Interests
There are some general dos and don’ts to keep in mind when choosing hobbies and interests to include on your CV:
Dos:
- Choose hobbies that are relevant to the job or industry you are applying for.
- Highlight hobbies that showcase transferable skills, such as teamwork or leadership.
- Mention hobbies that demonstrate personal qualities such as dedication or creativity.
- Include hobbies that you are passionate about and can speak confidently about.
Don’ts:
- Avoid hobbies that could be perceived as controversial or offensive.
- Do not include hobbies that are irrelevant to the job or industry.
- Avoid hobbies that are solitary and do not demonstrate teamwork or social skills.
- Do not include hobbies that you have no knowledge or interest in.
Examples of Good Hobbies and Interests to Include on a CV
Here are some examples of good hobbies and interests to include on a CV, depending on the job or industry you are applying for:
Creative Industries
- Painting or drawing
- Photography
- Music or playing an instrument
- Writing or blogging
- Acting or theater
Business or Marketing
- Public speaking or debating
- Creative writing or content creation
- Networking or attending industry events
- Learning a new language
- Volunteering or charity work
Team-Based Environments
- Team sports such as football or basketball
- Running or participating in marathons
- Dance or other group fitness classes
- Coaching or mentoring
- Organizing team-building events or activities
Technical or IT Industries
- Coding or programming
- Building or repairing computers
- Gaming or game development
- Electronics or robotics
- Cybersecurity or ethical hacking
FAQs: good hobbies and interests to put on a cv
Why should you include hobbies and interests in your cv?
Many job seekers believe that their professional experiences and education are the only things that matter on their resumes. However, including hobbies and interests can showcase your personality, skills and overall fit for the job. They can also demonstrate your creativity, teamwork, and leadership skills, among others. Hobbies and interests can create talking points during an interview, making you a more memorable and interesting candidate.
What are some good hobbies and interests to put on a cv?
The best hobbies and interests to include in your CV are those that align with the skills and qualities required for the job you are applying for. For instance, if you’re applying for a marketing position, including interests such as writing, social media, photography or volunteering can demonstrate your communication skills, creativity, and teamwork abilities. Other examples of good hobbies and interests might include sports, traveling, cooking, and learning new languages.
What hobbies and interests should you avoid putting on your cv?
It’s important to keep in mind that not all hobbies and interests are appropriate to include in your resume. For instance, anything that is potentially controversial, such as political or religious affiliations, should be avoided. Hobbies that could be viewed as negative, such as excessive drinking, gambling or extreme sports should also be omitted. Additionally, avoid listing irrelevant interests that don’t add anything to your resume or don’t demonstrate relevant skills or qualities.
How should you present your hobbies and interests on your cv?
The best way to present your hobbies and interests on your CV is to include a separate section at the end of your resume titled “Hobbies and Interests.” Each hobby or interest should be listed with a brief description and any relevant achievements or awards. Be concise and specific, and link each hobby or interest to how it demonstrates your skills or character. Finally, keep in mind that your hobbies and interests should not take up too much space on your CV, as the focus should still be on your professional experience and qualifications.
