When it comes to writing your resume there are some standard rules that you should follow to help you create a resume that's easy to read, logically written out and most of all, does exactly what it's supposed to do, highlights your skills and experience appropriately. But there's one area of a CV or resume that there doesn't seem to be a definite rule about, and that's the hobbies and interests section.

Rather unhelpfully there are some who believe a resume should include hobbies and interests and some who believe they are surplus to requirements. However, if you ask yourself the question, "will adding my hobbies and interests to my resume add value?" you will almost certainly be able to decide what's best for your resume.

Adding value is the key; if your resume covers a full ten years of employment history with significant achievements and demonstrates a good representation of who you are as a person, then adding the fact that you go to the gym regularly and enjoy cooking Indian cuisine, will not significantly influence an employer, and will not add any value. On the other hand, if you are a recent graduate with only part time holiday work on your resume, which may be totally unrelated to the roles you are applying for, then including your hobbies and interests may well add value, giving the employer a greater insight into you as a person, and your ambition or motivation.

If you do choose to include these items in your CV or resume then be sure to only choose the ones that really say something about yourself. As an example, mentioning that you completed a 100km charity cycle ride will show determination, empathy, social conscience and commitment. Stating that you like going to the cinema on the other hand doesn't really add anything to the reader's opinion. Obviously if you are applying for a role where an awareness of film is key then of course add this fact, but elaborate on it so that it does that all important thing, 'adds value'. State, for example, that you have a passion for a particular type of cinema, e.g. French, and that this has therefore inspired you to want to pursue that particular career.

In summary then, if your hobbies and interests are relevant and significant and your resume or CV is otherwise lacking in insight into what makes you tick, then include them. It certainly won't go against you and it could be just the edge your CV needs to beat the competition.

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