This is a question I often get from clients: the answer I like to give is that it’s optional. Some may feel that they don’t have any sports activities or hobbies worth mentioning. If you feel that putting down “generic” interests would only take up valuable space in your resume – such as going to movies, hiking, or swimming – then leave that section blank.
On the other hand, the “sports and hobbies” section is the only part of the resume that gives the employer insight about who you are, and what you do, outside of work. For example, if you’ve had a life long interest in butterflies, and have managed to turn that interest into a blog with over 50,000 followers, employers want to know about that. They want to know about things that you care about, and who you are as an individual.
If you were a member of your university ski team and led your team to national championships for two years in a row, then this is information worth putting down. Though it may have been years since you graduated, this information tells employers that you were disciplined and committed enough dedicate hours of training and personal sacrifice to achieve your goals.
If you’ve had a life long interest in butterflies, and have managed to turn that interest into a blog with over 50,000 followers, employers want to know about that.
When I worked as a recruiter, I paid special attention to a candidate’s sports achievements because I think there’s a strong correlation between a person’s athletic successes while in school, and their career successes later in life. Traits that are developed through sports – such as discipline, focus and team work – become critical in one’s working life.
