A resume’s “interests” section provides a glimpse into a candidate’s personality, passions, and how they spend their free time. This section can include activities like playing a musical instrument, participating in sports, engaging in creative pursuits like painting or writing, volunteering for charitable organizations, or pursuing specific hobbies like coding or astronomy. For instance, listing “competitive chess” showcases analytical skills and strategic thinking, while “volunteering at an animal shelter” highlights compassion and community involvement.
This seemingly small section can offer significant advantages. It can humanize the applicant, making them more memorable to potential employers. Shared interests can create a connection with the interviewer, leading to a more engaging conversation. Furthermore, listing relevant activities can demonstrate skills applicable to the job. Historically, this section was less common, focusing more on professional experience. However, in today’s competitive job market, showcasing a well-rounded personality and highlighting transferable skills through hobbies and interests has become increasingly valuable.