6 Examples for Listing Hobbies On A Resume

By Nicolas Parker on September 12, 2018

Almost every college student I know, myself included, has wondered:

“Can I put hobbies on a resume?”

The short answer is yes. Depending on which activities you include, listing your hobbies on a resume can provide the employer with an impression of what drives you and the things that you find important in life. Plus, you’ll also score bonus points if they can connect with you through a mutual interest.

So what hobbies are acceptable to include? Well, that depends on where you’re applying. Do you want to show leadership and perseverance? Does the position require a gentle, caring personality? It’s a good idea to tailor your resume to any position you’re applying for but that’s especially true with hobbies.

Do some research until you fully understand the company’s goals and work culture. When listing hobbies on a resume, your list should prove that you possess the qualities they’re looking for in an employee. If you can describe your favorite hobbies in a way that clearly suggests you will be an asset to the company, they may be the pivotal detail that makes you seem like the perfect candidate.

Here are six examples for listing hobbies on a resume and what they may say about you.

Yoga

The patience and strength required to participate in yoga regularly can prove to employers that you are a determined individual who can persevere through difficult work. It may also suggest that you’re interested in wellness, which can be a plus when listing hobbies on a resume intended for jobs in a medical or caregiving field.

 

Blogging

When listing hobbies on a resume, this is definitely a great activity to mention. Running a successful blog takes some serious brand promotion and time management skills. It can also suggest to an employer that you are creative and self-motivating, and that you may be skilled at writing, depending on your blog’s topic. This can help you when applying to many jobs, especially writing positions in media and journalism fields.

Gardening

If you’re passionate about gardening and are known for growing gorgeous roses or perfectly ripe tomatoes, chances are you have a skill set geared towards gentle roles that require empathy and patience such as caregiving positions like pet sitting or senior care. If you choose this to list as one of your hobbies on a resume, be sure it fits the position and the company’s work culture.

 

Acting and Theater

Not only will your passion for the stage tell an employer that you have a creative side, it will prove to them that you’re social, open, and brave. Virtually all employers view outgoing personalities as a good thing so when listing hobbies on a resume, this can help you on almost any application if you describe it well—don’t make it seem like you’re going to be talking to friends too much to get any work done!

Genealogy

Tracking down old records to create blooming family trees takes a lot of dedication and effort. Mentioning genealogy with your hobbies on a resume will let an employer know that you have strong research skills, a curious streak, and that you don’t back down from a challenge. This can help you when applying to positions in fields such as administration, journalism, and education.

 

Traveling

A thirst for adventure and a desire to see the world can prove to employers that you’re motivated and open to new ideas. It can also suggest that you’re good at planning and you like to meet new people. These skills can help you in nearly any position—just ensure that the employer knows your travel won’t affect your work.

Almost any hobbies on a resume can be helpful if they’re described positively and tailored to the right employer. Try making a list of your favorite pastimes and writing down what each one says about you—the good and the bad. It will provide insight into your own personality and will help you understand how others view you. Also, keep in mind that you should never lie about your hobbies on a resume. It may come back to haunt you!

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