You want your resume to look professional, but not dull or robotic. Listing hobbies can add a personal touch and help you seem more relatable — but do they really belong on a formal resume? Will your future boss spot your passion for fire-eating and be so intrigued that you’ll score an interview on the spot?
Well, probably not. What does fire eating have to do with the IT job you want? It’s only going to waste resume space and cause double-takes for all the wrong reasons. But mentioning that you were in your college’s robotics club? Now that’s relevant and interesting. The trick is knowing your audience and choosing hobbies that fit the role.
So, how do you know what’s relevant? This guide will tell you:
- Whether you should include hobbies and interests on your resume.
- What are good hobbies to put on a resume.
- Tips on how to stay professional while adding personality.
What Are Hobbies and Interests on a Resume?
Before jumping into what should go on your resume, let’s clear up the difference between hobbies and interests, as these terms are often used interchangeably when describing resume sections.
Hobbies are activities you do regularly for fun, relaxation, or personal growth, like playing sports, painting, or gardening. They’re often hands-on and help show hiring managers how you spend your downtime, hinting at any extra skills you might have outside your work experience.
Interests are broader, covering ideas, topics, or activities you’re curious about or want to get more involved with. Maybe you’re passionate about sustainability or the latest tech gadgets. Interests show where your curiosity lies and what areas you’d like to explore further.
Should You Put Hobbies on a Resume?
Let’s address the big question: should you include hobbies on your resume? Well, it depends. Factors such as your experience level, relevance, and the company culture all come into play. Messing it up can raise a few eyebrows, but getting it right can add real value and personality to your resume.
Here’s a quick look at when adding hobbies works in your favor — and when it’s better to keep them out.
Examples of Hobbies and Interests on a Resume
Your hobbies will make a good impression if they’re relevant to the job and company. The easiest way to decide what to include? Start with the job description. Remember, this is about what you can do for them, so start at the source and tailor your hobbies to match their needs.
Think about it: if you’re applying for a manager role at your local pizzeria, will you mention your yoga retreats or the time spent organizing community events? One shows leadership and planning skills, while the other says you’re all about relaxation (not ideal for a fast-paced restaurant).
I’ve compiled a list of hobbies that support all those in-demand skills — not distract from them.
Leadership qualities
True leadership skills are about delegating tasks, sharing ideas, motivating your team, and tackling challenges. And these skills aren’t reserved for managerial positions — they can come in handy when training a new colleague or guiding a small group project.
Here are some hobbies that can show off your leadership potential:
- Taking online courses
- Coaching sports teams
- Organizing local events
- Joining mentoring programs
- Solo traveling and backpacking
Communication abilities
Solid communication is the glue that holds a team together, whether presenting ideas, resolving conflicts, or chatting about office drama. The thing is, “good communicator” has become such a tired buzzword on resumes that it’s practically lost its meaning. Adding hobbies that prove you can talk the talk gives employers concrete examples of your communication skills.
Check out these hobbies where communication is front and center:
- Running a book club
- Blogging or storytelling
- Acting and drama classes
- Participating in the debate club
- Public speaking or Toastmasters
Computer proficiency
In a world where new tech is popping up faster than I can roll out of bed, having basic tech skills is basically non-negotiable, no matter the field. In fact, according to the National Skills Coalition, 92% of U.S. workers are expected to have digital skills. So, knowing your way around a computer is great, but showing that you actually enjoy technology can get you far in tech-related industries.
Take a look at these hobbies that highlight your digital prowess:
- Building websites
- Creating mobile apps
- Going to robotics club
- Computer programming
- Learning new technologies
Interpersonal skills
Most of us have dealt with that hot-headed coworker or the boss who micromanages everything — it’s not fun, and it can drag the whole team down. The tricky part? It’s not easy to prove interpersonal skills on a resume. Sure, employers can pick up on it during an interview, but hinting at it in your resume with relevant hobbies can give you an edge, especially if you're aiming for a customer-facing role.
Here are some hobbies that show you can get along with others:
- Running a podcast
- Role-playing activities
- Organizing group travel
- Attending networking events
- Taking part in dance classes
Problem-solving experience
Problem-solving is one of the most in-demand skills for employees — and no, it’s not about testing your jigsaw abilities (thankfully, because I’d be in trouble). Your boss and coworkers won’t always be there to hold your hand when challenges pop up. Employers want people who can spot problems and figure out how to solve them using some good old critical thinking.
Check out these hobbies that require solid problem-solving skills:
- Geocaching
- Designing video games
- Going to escape rooms
- Playing strategic games
- Coding and Programming
Creative strengths
Creativity is often born from hobbies. Think about how many got their start by writing short stories or making their family sit through endless home plays. Keeping that creative spark alive shows your imagination is still kicking. Not in a creative field? While your hobbies should align with your industry, creative pastimes can point to other skills, like dedication and communication.
Take a look at these creative hobbies to add to your resume:
- Creative writing
- Sewing and crafts
- Interior decorating
- Trying new recipes
- Playing a musical instrument
Attention to detail
No one wants to be that person who accidentally sends a confidential email to the whole company. Maybe that’s an extreme example, but not paying attention to detail can lead to some major slip-ups. Employers don’t want to spend their days fixing errors or catching mistakes.
Check out these hobbies that need your full focus:
- Model building
- Working on DIY projects
- Metalworking and woodwork
- Filmmaking and photography
- Gardening and flower arranging
Collaboration and teamwork
“Dream work makes the teamwork”. Yes, it’s a somewhat annoying cliché, but we’ve all felt the stress, discomfort, and awkward silences of being stuck with a team that just doesn’t click. Good collaboration keeps things running smoothly, boosts productivity, and makes problem-solving a lot easier.
Here are some hobbies that involve a team effort:
- Going to trivia nights
- Community gardening
- Playing in team sports
- Attending workshops and seminars
- Being part of a band or musical group
Customer service expertise
How do you show customer service skills through hobbies? I doubt many of us are listening to random strangers complain for fun. But what makes a good customer service rep? Strong communication, empathy, and a great deal of patience. All traits which can be found in your hobbies and interests.
Check out these hobbies that show you could excel in customer service:
- Fundraising for charities
- Hosting social gatherings
- Learning a foreign language
- Volunteering with organizations
- Participating in community events
Ambitious mindset
What do Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos have in common? No, it’s not just their knack for avoiding taxes — it’s their ambition. It goes without saying that ambition and success go hand in hand. Companies have goals to reach, and employers who are motivated and driven are the ones who can help them hit those targets.
Here are some hobbies that require discipline and ambition:
- Rock climbing
- Practicing yoga
- Learning new skills
- Practicing martial arts
- Running races and marathons
How to List Hobbies on Your Resume?
Your hobbies and interests should never outshine your work experiences or achievements. Think of them as that perfect accessory that subtly enhances a showstopping outfit. Placement matters, and picking the right hobbies that complement your resume is the way to add value.
Here’s a breakdown of how to list hobbies and interests on your resume:
1. Review the job description for desired skills
Not every company cares about your hobbies — your love for cheese rolling won’t help them hit their targets. But your stint as an improv actor? Now, that could come in handy when you’re giving presentations. If your hobbies reveal skills that the job ad lists, they’re more than just a nice touch — it shows that you’re the right fit beyond your work history.
What can you do?
- Read the job description carefully and pay close attention to the skills and traits they’re looking for. Don’t just skim it — dig into the “required” and “nice-to-have” sections and note anything that stands out, whether it’s technical skills or personal qualities.
- Think about how your hobbies align with the job’s desired skills. For example, if the job ad says they value creativity and problem-solving, mentioning your interest in repairing furniture or creative writing can highlight those traits.
Find out more about aligning your resume with the job: How to Tailor Your Resume
2. Consider if your hobbies are relevant to the position
Are you going for a senior position, or just starting with an entry-level role? Your place in the company can determine whether your hobbies will add substance to your resume or just waste valuable space.
What can you do?
- If you’re a seasoned professional with a resume full of experience and achievements, you don’t need to include hobbies. Your work history and qualifications already speak volumes. But if your resume feels light, maybe because you’re new to the field or transitioning careers, hobbies can add some much-needed depth.
- Don’t just list the hobby — tie it to a skill or quality. Instead of just writing “volunteering,” you could mention, “volunteering at a local animal shelter, which has strengthened my teamwork and time management skills.” This helps connect the dots for the hiring manager, showing that your hobbies are a testament to your relevant qualities.
3. Create a hobbies and interests section
You’ve decided your resume could use a little personality. But where do you put your hobbies? Recruiters are often skimming through resumes, so following a standard format will help them quickly find the information they need. You have two options: create a separate section for hobbies, or weave them into your work experience. Let’s explore the first one.
What can you do?
- Create a dedicated “Hobbies and Interests” section at the end of your resume to make sure it doesn’t steal the spotlight from your professional experience, education, and key skills. A solid rule of thumb? Limit your hobbies to no more than five items.
- This section is there to complement, not compete with, the main content of your resume. It shows a bit of your personality and can subtly reinforce qualities relevant to the job, making you stand out in a more human way.
4. Include hobbies in your education or work experiences
Do your work experience and education sections look thin? By embedding hobbies into your resume, you’re showing how these activities translate into real skills that add value to your future role. But, fair warning — throwing your small book club under “work experience” is definitely a red flag.
What can you do?
- Only add hobbies and interests to your work experience section if it involves real work. Volunteer experience, hosting charity events, and contributing toward community projects can all fall under work experience — just make it clear that this was unpaid work and focus on successful outcomes and results.
- For students or recent grads, highlighting college clubs, sports, and organizations under the education section shows that even if you don’t have extensive work experience, you’re still active and building skills outside the classroom.
Learn more about what to include in your work experiences: How to Write a Perfect Resume Work Experience Section
5. Check your hobbies add value to your resume
It’s tempting to throw everything on your resume — all those years learning how to master the violin has to amount to something, even if it’s just to impress your employer. But before you go overboard, put yourself in their shoes. Are they really going to care about your bowing technique when they’re just looking for someone to serve food to customers?
What can you do?
- Including hobbies is only worthwhile if they genuinely enhance your application. If your resume could use more substance, like when you’re a new grad or switching careers, hobbies can fill in those gaps. Think of them as an extra way to show initiative and potential — not to add unnecessary fluff.
- Certain hobbies naturally align with specific industries. Are you aiming for a job in tech? Mentioning your interest in robotics can add a relevant touch. For roles that require creativity, activities like writing blogs signal your creative side. Choose hobbies that make sense for the job you’re applying for and show you in a positive light.
Hobbies and Interests On a Resume: Tips and Examples
Every word matters on your resume. The good news? You’ve got the internet on your side. Use it to dig into the job description, understand the company’s goals, and get a feel for their work culture to tailor your application.
Remember, your hobbies are all about you until they hit your resume. Once they’re there, it’s all about how they fit the job. Mentioning a love for spontaneous travel when the role calls for strict, random shifts? Probably not your best bet.
Here are some tips and advice to make sure your hobbies work for you, not against you.
Research the job and company culture
Rule number one for listing hobbies on your resume: make sure they’re relevant to the job. Just because a company seems quirky doesn’t mean the hiring team will appreciate a mention of your worm-charming hobby (yes, that’s real). Don’t wing it — do some digging to find out if your hobby fits.
Check out the company’s “About” section, scroll through employee profiles, and look at any blogs or social media posts. This can give you insight into their mission, values, and work culture.
Why does this matter? Aligning your hobbies with company values shows you’re on their level. If they’re all about team-building and collaboration, mentioning that you play on a sports team or lead group hikes shows that you’d mesh well with their company culture.
Be specific and honest
You spot on LinkedIn that your future boss is a huge baseball fan. You played a bit in high school, so why not stretch the truth and list it as a hobby on your resume? It works, and you land an interview — until he starts talking about fly balls and extra innings. You’re lost, and he can tell.
It might seem harmless — but nobody wants to hire someone they can’t trust.
Being specific also paints a clearer picture of who you are and what you can offer. Instead of just adding “reading,” try “reading contemporary non-fiction, focusing on psychology and leadership.” This shows that you’re not just reading for fun — you’re into professional growth. If you play sports, mention your role, like “captain of a local soccer team,” to highlight teamwork and leadership skills.
Include achievements and results
Why do companies hire new employees? Simple — they have problems to solve and goals to meet. Listing duties, skills, and hobbies with no context shows what you’ve done, but not what you can do in the future. Focus on accomplishments and results to give employers an idea of what you can do for them.
It’s one thing to say you have a hobby, but showing real involvement or achievements takes it up a notch. It proves you’re not just casually into something — you’re committed and have something to show for it.
Take “playing chess”. You could leave it at that, or you could go further and say, “competed in local chess tournaments, earning top-three finishes in multiple events.” It’s not just a hobby, it’s putting your strategic thinking, patience, and dedication into action. These small but powerful details give hiring managers a more compelling picture of you as a candidate.
Avoid listing controversial or vague hobbies
Imagine being at a BBQ and having an intense chat with a vegan about their lifestyle — as you eat a plate of ribs. There’s nothing wrong with the conversation, it’s just the wrong context. Don’t make the same mistake in your resume.
Stay far away from hobbies that could be viewed as polarizing, like those related to politics, religion, or controversial advocacy. Even if they’re close to your heart, these could lead to assumptions that might hurt your chances. The last thing you need is a resume that sparks questions or bias instead of showing why you’re fit for the job.
Hobbies involving high-risk activities, like extreme sports, could also make employers pause. They might view these interests as risky or potentially reckless, raising concerns about liability or your safety. Your boss wants to know that you can deliver results — and a broken arm could throw a spanner in the works.
Keep your hobbies section concise
Your professional background and skills are the star of the show. Everything else on your resume is just the supporting cast. If you list too many hobbies, they can take attention away from your key qualifications and come off as unprofessional.
Even if you have lots of exciting hobbies, resist the urge to list them all. Only include those relevant to the job you’re going for, and cap it at around five. A laundry list of hobbies can look like “padding” and employers will be left thinking what you’re trying to hide or make up for — not the impression you want to make.
If they find your hobbies interesting, you can always go into more detail during the interview. In fact, discussing hobbies can be a great icebreaker to ease into the conversation and calm any nerves.
Summary
Here’s an overview of what to keep in mind when including hobbies in your resume:
- Adjust your hobbies based on the specific job or industry, emphasizing those that reflect valued skills and traits.
- Be specific and avoid vague hobbies that say little about your skills. Instead of just saying “reading,” mention the genre or type of books (e.g., “reading guides on personal growth”).
- Show your soft skills with hobbies that demonstrate collaboration, leadership, or problem-solving, such as volunteering or participating in team sports.
- Keep it concise and limit your hobbies to 3–5 well-chosen examples to avoid cluttering your resume or looking like you’re padding it out.
- Avoid controversy by avoiding hobbies related to politics, religion, or anything that could be seen as divisive.
- Don’t overshadow experience. Your work experience and accomplishments should always be the focus; hobbies should complement, not dominate, your resume.
- Think about employer perception. Consider how hiring managers might interpret your hobbies and whether they fit with the company culture.
FAQ
What are good interests to put on a resume?
Good interests to put on your resume are those that align with the job you’re applying for or show transferable skills. For example, if you’re applying for a marketing role, mentioning an interest in photography or blogging could be a plus.
Similarly, interests highlighting soft skills like leadership or teamwork, such as organizing events, volunteering, or playing sports, can make you stand out. The key is relevance; make sure your interests show who you are as a well-rounded candidate, without overshadowing your experience and qualifications.
What are some unique skills or interests to highlight on your resume?
Unique skills or interests can give you an edge, especially if they demonstrate traits the employer values. Think about hobbies or experiences that set you apart, like learning a new language, traveling to diverse cultures, or coding personal projects.
Interests like competitive gaming, public speaking, or running marathons show commitment, discipline, and resilience. If you have a passion for something unusual (but relevant), such as urban gardening or drone photography, it can spark conversation during an interview and show that you're curious and constantly learning.
Should you put hobbies on a CV?
While a resume is typically a brief summary of your qualifications, a CV (curriculum vitae) in the US is a more detailed account of your academic background, research, and professional accomplishments.
Including hobbies on an academic CV is not as common as on a resume, but could be acceptable if they align with the role, or if you’re applying for a role that values specific personality traits. But if you include hobbies, keep it short and make sure they don’t overshadow your experience.
What activities to put on a resume?
Activities to include on your resume should demonstrate skills relating to the job you want. For example, leadership roles in clubs, event coordination, or volunteering can highlight teamwork, organization, and communication skills. Personal projects like freelance writing, website development, or managing a podcast show you’re creative and can manage your time.
If you’re a student or early-career professional, include activities like being a part of student organizations, internships, or academic research projects. The goal is to show initiative and passion in areas that complement your professional goals.
What are some resume interest examples for students?
For students with limited work experience, interests can help fill out your resume and give recruiters a sense of who you are. Some good examples include:
- Volunteering: Shows empathy and initiative.
- Student leadership roles: Demonstrates teamwork and leadership.
- Sports or team activities: Indicates discipline, collaboration, and commitment.
- Creative projects (blogging, art, music): Highlights creativity and time management.
- Technical skills (coding, graphic design): Displays relevant industry skills.
In general, make sure your interests reveal personal growth, transferable skills, and passion for areas relevant to the role you’re pursuing.
Don’t have much work experience? Take a look: How to Write a Resume With No Experience
