Strategic Hobbies to Boost Your Resume (Desired Qualities)

• Why Include Hobbies in a Resume Part 1
• Hobbies Demonstrating Leadership Part 2
• Hobbies Demonstrating Teamwork Part 3
• Hobbies Showcasing Creativity Part 4
• Hobbies Indicating Strategic Thinking Part 5
• Hobbies Reflecting Problem-Solving Skills Part 6
• Hobbies Demonstrating Adaptability Part 7
• Hobbies Reflecting Communication Skills Part 8
• How to Appropriately List Hobbies on a Resume Part 9

Part 1Why Include Hobbies in a Resume

Including hobbies in your resume can provide a more complete picture of who you are as a candidate. It showcases your personality, interests, and talents, making you more relatable to recruiters and hiring managers. Hobbies can demonstrate your soft skills, transferable abilities, and even certain experience that may be applicable to the job at hand.

For instance, if you’re applying for a position that requires strong analytical skills, mentioning your love for solving puzzles, playing chess, or participating in escape rooms may give you a competitive edge. Similarly, hobbies like team sports, volunteering, or mentoring can show that you have strong interpersonal and leadership qualities, which may be highly valued by employers.

That being said, it’s essential to choose hobbies that are relevant to the job and reflect well on your professional background. Avoid listing generic interests that do not convey any specific benefits or uniqueness about you as a candidate. Instead, personalize your resume by selecting hobbies that highlight your strengths and align with the requirements and company culture of the job you’re applying for.

Related: 10 Smart Answers to “What Are Your Salary Requirements?”

To optimize your resume’s appeal, you can also present your hobbies in a visually appealing manner by using bullet points, bold text, or even tables if appropriate. This will not only make your resume more reader-friendly, but it will also help employers quickly grasp your skills and personality traits.

Featuring hobbies on your resume can enhance your candidacy and show that you have more to offer than just your professional experience. Make sure to choose hobbies that are truly relevant to the position and that showcase your unique skills and qualities as a confident and knowledgeable applicant.

As an example, here are some hobbies and the qualities they represent:

• Team sports: teamwork, communication, leadership
• Volunteering: dedication, collaboration, empathy
• Photography: creativity, eye for detail, patience
• Writing or blogging: communication, ability to articulate ideas, creativity

Read on to find out more examples!

Part 2Hobbies Demonstrating Leadership

1. Team sports: Participating in team sports like basketball, football, or soccer showcases your ability to work well with others, perform under pressure, and hone your leadership skills. As a team player, you know the importance of cooperation and communication, which is valuable in any workplace.
2. Volunteering: Engaging in volunteer work gives you experience working with a diverse group of people and leading community projects. This demonstrates your initiative, empathy, and social responsibility, all significant leadership qualities desired by employers.
3. Mentoring: Taking on the role of a mentor, such as in Big Brothers Big Sisters programs or tutoring positions, proves your dedication to the growth and success of others. Mentoring also highlights your ability to communicate effectively, provide guidance, and be a reliable source of support.
4. Club memberships: Holding leadership roles in clubs or organizations reveals your commitment to collaboration and goal-setting. As a club officer or board member, you can demonstrate your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking, both crucial to modern business practices.
5. Organizing events: Planning and executing events, such as charity fundraisers, demonstrates your ability to handle logistics and lead teams. Event organization calls for keen attention to detail, time management, and delegation, all of which showcase your leadership aptitude.

Including these hobbies on your resume sends a strong message that you possess the leadership qualities desired by employers. Stand out by highlighting your skills and experiences in activities that emphasize teamwork, communication, and community-based projects.

Part 3Hobbies Demonstrating Teamwork

When you’re applying for a job that requires collaboration and teamwork, showcasing hobbies that involve working with others can be a significant advantage. These hobbies can help demonstrate your skills in being a team player, communication, and collaborative problem-solving.

1. Volunteering: Whether it’s for a local food bank, an animal shelter, or a charity event, volunteering your time for a good cause can show that you’re a compassionate and dedicated person. It also typically involves working with others, which demonstrates your teamwork abilities.
2. Band or Music Group: Playing a musical instrument with a group, whether it’s in a formal band or just jamming with friends, can help exhibit your collaborative and creative skills. In most cases, musicians need to work together closely and communicate effectively to produce harmonious music. This can imply that you’re able to listen to others and adapt to different situations.
3. Workshops and Clubs: Joining workshops or clubs centered around a shared interest, such as photography or woodworking, can highlight your cooperative skills. Attending these sessions regularly shows commitment and openness to learning from others while also sharing your knowledge with the group.
4. Team Sports: Participating in team sports such as basketball, soccer, or volleyball can be a great way to show that you can work well with others. These sports often require a substantial amount of communication and cooperation amongst teammates to be successful. By being a part of a sports team, you show dedication, reliability, and fair play.
5. Amateur Theatre: Being involved in community theater or drama clubs not only showcases your creativity but also demonstrates your ability to work with a team. Working on productions and coordinating with fellow actors, stage crew, and directors require strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset.

By incorporating these hobbies to your resume, you can effectively convey your ability to work in a team setting and your capacity to contribute to the success of a collaborative project.

Part 4Hobbies Showcasing Creativity

Creative hobbies can offer a unique way to demonstrate your innovative thinking and artistic abilities. Adding these activities to your resume can capture the attention of hiring managers, especially when applying for jobs in fields that require originality and a keen sense of aesthetics. Here are some popular creative hobbies that can enhance your resume:

1. Photography: Employing a camera to capture memorable moments or frame appealing perspectives can showcase your skills in attention to detail, composition, and color theory. It also suggests that you have a good eye for visuals, which may be helpful in roles such as graphic design or marketing.
2. Writing: Whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, blogging, or poetry, expressing yourself through written language can highlight your communication skills, analytical abilities, and talent for storytelling. Writing as a hobby can be beneficial for roles that involve content creation, editing, or public relations.
3. Painting or Drawing: Engaging in visual arts, such as painting, sketching, or digital illustration, can emphasize your artistic sensibilities, as well as your ability to think outside the box. This kind of hobby might be particularly relevant for jobs in the creative industries, like advertising or game design.
4. Playing a musical instrument: Proficiency in one or more musical instruments reveals discipline, dedication, and an understanding of complex concepts like rhythm, melody, and harmony. Musicianship can be an attractive quality for employers looking to build teams with diverse talents and backgrounds.
5. Crafts: Hobbies like knitting, woodworking, or pottery demonstrate manual dexterity, patience, and a penchant for creating something from scratch. These skills can be valuable in positions that require hands-on work or fine attention to detail, such as architecture or event planning.

Incorporating creative hobbies into your resume can help you stand out as a candidate with specialized skills and an innovative mindset. Be sure to choose hobbies that align with the qualities desired by potential employers, as well as those that genuinely represent your interests and passions.

Part 5Hobbies Indicating Strategic Thinking

If you want to showcase your strategic thinking abilities, consider including hobbies that highlight this skill:

• Participating in strategic board games demonstrates your ability to think critically and plan ahead. Some games to mention on your resume could include chess, go, or strategy-based video games.
• Another way to show strategic thinking is to participate in sports, as they often require teamwork and coordination. Sports like basketball, soccer, or American football are prime examples of activities that demand advance planning and the ability to predict and react to opponents’ moves. Team sports also help demonstrate your ability to work with others and communicate effectively.
• Problem-solving and critical thinking skills can also be displayed through hobbies like solving puzzles and participating in escape rooms. These activities require the use of logic, reasoning, and pattern recognition, which are all valuable skills in any professional environment. Mentioning your love for solving brain-teasers or participating in escape rooms will boost your resume’s appeal.
• Engaging in debate or public speaking clubs is another great way to display strategic thinking. This shows that you can think quickly on your feet, analyze different viewpoints, and develop persuasive arguments, all while staying composed and professional. Consider listing your participation in organizations such as Toastmasters, debating societies, or even a local improv group to demonstrate your strategic mindset.

With the right hobbies listed, you can effectively showcase your strategic thinking abilities, increasing your chances of impressing potential employers.

Part 6Hobbies Reflecting Problem-Solving Skills

1. Puzzles and brainteasers: Solving puzzles and brain teasers can demonstrate your ability to handle complex problems and think critically. Tackling these challenges in your free time showcases that you’re not only quick-witted, but you also enjoy improving your analytical prowess.
2. Playing strategy games: Engaging in strategic board games, video games, or even card games can exhibit your capacity to solve problems, plan, and adjust tactics to achieve success. This hobby can give employers a hint of how well you could perform in a role that requires strategic thinking.
3. Adventure sports: Participating in activities like orienteering, rock climbing, or escape rooms displays your knack for solving problems under pressure, having strong decision-making abilities, and being determined. These qualities are easily transferable to the workplace, making you a valuable asset to the team.
4. Volunteering: Lending your time and skills to nonprofits or community organizations can be a fulfilling hobby. It shows that you’re not only compassionate, but also committed to finding solutions for societal issues. This dedication to problem-solving can be an admirable quality in a candidate.
5. Learning new languages: Picking up new languages helps in honing problem-solving skills, especially through pattern recognition and communication abilities. If you’re an avid language learner, you might find it easier to adapt to the diverse demands of the workplace or interact with international colleagues.

Remember, the key is to choose hobbies that showcase your problem-solving skills and make you stand out as a potential employee. Always give priority to your unique interests and don’t forget to keep it relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Part 7Hobbies Demonstrating Adaptability

Picking up new hobbies and being open to adapt shows an employer that you’re willing to learn and embrace change. Here are some examples of hobbies that demonstrate adaptability:

1. Travel and exploration: Visiting new places and experiencing different cultures shows your adventurous side and your ability to adjust to new environments. Traveling helps you gain new perspectives and develop an open mindset.
2. Martial arts: Practicing martial arts demonstrates flexibility and discipline. As you advance through different belts or skill levels, you show your ability to adapt under challenging conditions and learn from mistakes.
3. Learning a new language: Mastering another language is a clear indicator of adaptability. It can also be a plus if the job requires communication with people from diverse backgrounds. A new language can help you understand different cultures, making you a versatile candidate. Related: How to Include Language Skills on Your Resume (Examples)
4. Playing musical instruments: Learning to play an instrument requires patience and a willingness to adapt. Playing in a band or an orchestra further hones your teamwork and coordination skills. Whether you play the guitar, piano, or the drums, you’ll be showing your versatility.
5. Creative writing or blogging: Being able to captivate an audience with your writing requires learning, adapting, and refining your skills. Creative writing or blogging illustrates your ability to communicate effectively and adapt to the changing interests of readers.
6. Volunteering: Working with various community organizations or charities highlights your adaptability and displays your willingness to contribute positively to society. Volunteering exposes you to new experiences and challenges, helping you grow and adapt.

When listing these hobbies on your resume, remember to connect them to the specific job requirements. Show the employer how your adaptability would make you an excellent candidate for the position.

Related: How To List Certifications on a Resume (Examples)

Part 8Hobbies Reflecting Communication Skills

• If you’re looking to showcase your communication skills on your resume, consider including hobbies that highlight your ability to connect with others. For example, joining a local debate club or Toastmasters group demonstrates your public speaking abilities and comfort in presenting your ideas to others.
• Another great way to show your communication skills is by listing team sports, such as football or basketball. These activities require you to collaborate with teammates, strategize, and communicate effectively to achieve a common goal. Additionally, coaching or volunteering to teach a sport to others can emphasize your ability to present information in a clear, digestible manner.
• Social and cultural clubs or associations can also display your communication talents. If you’re part of a book club or film group, you’re regularly engaging in discussions and sharing your thoughts on various topics. Likewise, participating in international cultural events, language exchange programs, or language learning courses highlight your adaptability and openness to communicate with people from diverse backgrounds.

No matter the position, strong communication skills are often highly valued by employers, and including these hobbies on your resume can help you stand out from the competition.

Part 9How to Appropriately List Hobbies on a Resume

When considering hobbies to add to your resume, it’s a good idea to focus on those that showcase the skills and qualities employers are looking for. To make the most of this section, try following these steps:

1. Evaluate the relevance:
Before listing a hobby, think about how it relates to the job you’re applying for. Can it highlight your ability to work well under pressure, or give you experience in a specific industry? If not, skip it and look for a hobby that better represents your qualifications.

2. Highlight transferable skills:
Some hobbies offer experiences that can improve your performance on the job. For example, volunteering at a local nonprofit can demonstrate your commitment to social causes and your ability to work well with others. Similarly, playing a team sport can show off your communication and leadership skills.

3. Show off your creativity:
Creative hobbies, such as photography or writing, can be a great way to showcase your ability to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions to problems. Make sure you have a clear idea of how your creative pursuits relate to the job, so they appear relevant and interesting to hiring managers.

4. Use action verbs:
When describing your hobbies, use action verbs to emphasize your skills and achievements. For instance, instead of saying you “enjoy cooking,” mention that you “experiment with new recipes and techniques to create delicious and healthy meals for friends and family.”

5. Be concise:
Keep your list of hobbies brief and to the point. Aim for two to four entries, and incorporate only the most interesting or compelling hobbies. A shorter, more focused list will be more effective than an exhaustive list of activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some examples of hobbies showcasing valuable skills for a resume?

Hobbies can demonstrate various skills and qualities that potential employers may find attractive. Some examples include:

• Team sports (e.g., soccer, basketball): These activities show teamwork, leadership, and commitment.
• Creative pursuits (e.g., painting, writing): These hobbies highlight creativity, attention to detail, and self-expression.
• Volunteering (e.g., community service, mentoring): This displays empathy, dedication, and strong interpersonal skills.

How do certain hobbies relate to specific job requirements or positions?

Matching your hobbies to job requirements can help create a connection with the hiring manager. As an example, if you’re applying for a sales position, showcasing your experience in competitive activities like debate or team sports emphasizes your drive and result-oriented nature. Similarly, a creative hobby like photography can show attention to detail and aesthetic sensitivity, important for design-related roles.

What types of hobbies are best suited for students to include on their resumes?

As a student, you might not have extensive work experience, so hobbies can become particularly valuable. Focus on hobbies that demonstrate transferable skills, such as:

• Academic clubs (e.g., Mathletes, Science Olympiad): These activities display problem-solving, critical thinking, and time management skills.
• Student government or leadership roles: Here, you exhibit leadership, organization, and communication abilities.
• Part-time jobs or internships: These opportunities show work ethic, responsibility, and adaptability to a professional environment.

How do hobbies for adults differ from those for younger individuals on a resume?

For adults with more substantial work experience, hobbies might play a secondary role in a resume. However, they can still provide insights into your personality, values, and cultural fit. If you choose to include a hobby, make sure it adds value to your overall profile.

What factors should be considered when selecting hobbies to list on a resume?

When selecting hobbies for your resume, consider the relevance to the job, the skills they showcase, and the uniqueness of your interests. Prioritize hobbies that demonstrate transferable skills, such as teamwork or creativity. It’s also helpful to include less common hobbies, as they can serve as a talking point during an interview.

Which hobbies are typically not recommended to put on a resume and why?

Avoid including hobbies that:

• Are overly personal or polarizing, as they might alienate the reader.
• Do not provide any relevant skills or insights into your character.
• Are too common or generic, as they don’t highlight what makes you unique.

Examples to avoid are watching TV, napping, and extreme political activism. Instead, focus on activities that contribute positively to your professional image and align with the job requirements.

Can hobbies benefit my professional life?

Absolutely! Hobbies can help you develop useful skills, enhance your creativity, and ultimately improve your professional life. For example, hobbies like playing a musical instrument, learning a new language, or mastering a computer program can translate into valuable skills for your career. Engaging in hobbies can also provide an outlet for stress relief, enabling you to be more focused and productive at work. Furthermore, hobbies can contribute to networking opportunities by allowing you to connect with others who share similar interests.

How can I incorporate my hobbies into my resume?

To incorporate your hobbies into your resume, you can include a “Hobbies and Interests” section near the end of your document, after your work experience and educational background. When listing your hobbies, focus on those that are relevant to the job you’re applying for and demonstrate transferable skills. For example, if you’re applying for a team leader position, you might mention your passion for playing team sports, which demonstrates teamwork and leadership skills. Avoid listing generic hobbies unless they are directly related to the job or can showcase valuable skills.

Should I include hobbies in my personal statement?

Including hobbies in your personal statement can be an excellent way to provide insight into your personality and showcase your passions. When mentioning hobbies, focus on those that demonstrate skills or qualities that are relevant to the program or course you’re applying for. For instance, if you’re applying to an engineering program, you might mention your interest in building and programming robots. Be sure to emphasize how these hobbies have shaped your personal growth, inspired your career goals, or contributed to your academic achievements.

How do I discuss my hobbies during a job interview?

When discussing your hobbies during a job interview, focus on those that are relevant to the position and highlight the skills or qualities they demonstrate. Be prepared to describe your involvement and accomplishments within your hobbies, and provide examples of how they have contributed to your personal growth or developed your skills. By connecting your hobbies to the job requirements, you can showcase your passion, dedication, and the potential value you can bring to the organization.