Job Seekers Revive Hobbies Section on Resumes to Stand Out

In today’s competitive job market, professionals are increasingly adding a one-line hobbies section to their resumes. This trend aims to capture the attention of hiring managers and differentiate candidates in an environment where many applications appear similar due to the influence of AI-driven resume screening.

According to a report from The Wall Street Journal, job seekers are incorporating hobbies to humanize their applications. This approach allows candidates, even those from prestigious backgrounds, to showcase their personal interests, such as training miniature dachshunds or perfecting restaurant-quality scrambled eggs. The goal is to prompt hiring managers to think, “Yes, this is somebody I’d like to be in the trenches with at 3 o’clock in the morning on a deadline,” as noted by Reder Sheikh, a partner at recruiting agency Major, Lindsey & Africa.

Why Hobbies Matter

Sheikh highlighted that more than half of the legal associates she placed in jobs last year included a hobbies section on their resumes, a notable increase from previous years. This unique addition can encourage recruiters to take a second look at a candidate’s application and facilitate connections during interviews. She recommends that this section be placed at the end of the resume and occupy only a single line.

Richard King, another recruiter, emphasized that hobbies add character to resumes, especially as AI continues to produce applications that lack individuality. He remarked, “Let’s bring the human back,” suggesting that personal interests can make candidates more relatable.

The Resurgence of Hobbies on Resumes

The conversation around including hobbies gained traction earlier this year when a viral post on social media criticized a resume that listed “olive oil” as an interest. While some found it quirky, others suggested that more detail could enhance its appeal. Fred Cibelli, a technology principal at EY, expressed that discussions about personal interests can enrich interview conversations, provided candidates meet the core qualifications for the role.

However, candidates must carefully consider which personal details to share. Dawn Choo, a data scientist who applied to Meta, initially hesitated to include her experience performing in the Washington Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker. Despite concerns about how it might be perceived in a male-dominated industry, she decided to include it and received positive feedback, ultimately securing the job.

As job seekers navigate a challenging employment landscape, the revival of the hobbies section on resumes serves as a strategic move to stand out and connect with potential employers. For more insights on this trend, visit Entrepreneur.