Putting Interests on My Resume
Kent R.
A common question.
Q: Google wants to know my interests. I assume it’s okay to make them a part of my “core” resume?
Generally speaking, I recommend not including personal interests or hobbies on a resume. Most potential employers are looking for resumes that solely speak to your qualifications for a position, which usually excludes interests and hobbies. However, there are some expectations to that best practice, and Google is a great example.
There are some progressive employers who request that you include interests and hobbies on your resume so that they can gain a clearer picture of you – not just the professional you – as they go about the selection process. In cases like this, or when your interests and hobbies directly relate to your professional experience (software developers who code on the side, for example), then by all means include them.