Common Personal Hobbies to List on Resumes

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Last updated on October 8th, 2024 at 01:41 pm

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

In today’s competitive job market, where the employment rate has risen to 6% post-pandemic from 3.5%, job seekers must find ways to stand out. Distancing yourself from the rejection pile can hinge on subtle details, and one often overlooked aspect is your hobbies. While specialized jobs may not benefit from a long list of extracurricular activities, aligning your hobbies with the qualities a company values can significantly enhance your resume. Below are several desirable hobbies to consider and resources that provide additional insights.

1. Volunteering

One of the standout hobbies to feature on your resume is volunteering. Volunteer work demonstrates a range of positive qualities that resonate within any workplace, such as teamwork, empathy, and commitment to community service. Many organizations prioritize community outreach; therefore, highlighting your volunteer experience can show that your values align with theirs if the company you’re applying to has such initiatives. For instance, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, many companies actively seek candidates with a history of civic engagement.

2. Writing

Writing can be an impressive addition to your resume, showcasing your communication skills—an essential competency in numerous roles. A survey from CMSWire found that 97% of employees believe communication significantly impacts their daily tasks. If you write blogs and short stories or engage in creative writing, including these on your resume can underscore your ability to convey information. However, ensuring that these writing pursuits are relevant and enhance your candidacy is crucial.

3. Sports

While listing sports on your resume may seem cliché, it can convey vital attributes, especially for positions that require teamwork and collaboration. Participation in team sports illustrates your ability to work well within a group, manage conflict, and contribute to shared goals. Even individual sports can highlight qualities such as self-discipline and resilience. Engaging in activities beyond the conventional gym workouts—like marathons, long-distance cycling, or martial arts—demonstrates a strong work ethic that employers highly regard.

4. Traveling

Incorporating traveling as a hobby can be advantageous, particularly for roles requiring interaction with diverse cultures. Travel signifies open-mindedness, curiosity, and sensitivity to different perspectives—invaluable qualities in today’s global marketplace. Even if you haven’t traveled extensively, expressing a passion for travel—such as watching travel documentaries or reading about various cultures—can emphasize your desire to engage with a global community, making your application more appealing to companies with international interests.

5. The Arts

Creativity is an asset highly sought across various industries. Artistic pursuits, whether drawing, painting, photography, or playing an instrument, showcase your ability to think outside the box and approach problems innovatively. Employers appreciate creative individuals who often contribute fresh ideas and unique solutions to challenges. Including artistic hobbies in your resume can set you apart, indicating that you can add a creative perspective to a team.

Optimize Your Hobbies

Your interests make you unique, so take the time to curate and optimize the hobbies you list on your resume. Tailor your choices to align with the job you are applying for and ensure they highlight your strengths. This thoughtful approach demonstrates your qualifications and genuine interest in the role and the company’s culture.

If you’re seeking more insights to give you an edge in the job market, explore additional resources for job seekers. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics provides valuable employment data, while articles from CMSWire offer tips on workplace communication and current trends.

By carefully selecting and effectively presenting your hobbies, you can significantly enhance your resume, making it a powerful tool in your job search arsenal.