Article by Index Digital Team | 5th August 2024

Do Britain's Favourite Hobbies Look Good On A CV?

Almost two thirds of young people (63%) admit they have never taken up a hobby, with experts warning that this could be detrimental to your CV.

Image Photo by Resume Genius on Unsplash

Adobe Express have found that the most popular hobby enjoyed by UK adults is reading, with more than a third stating this was their number one choice (35%).

“Reading can help you find common ground with your employer. For example, If you’re going into a specific field such as cooking or hospitality, perhaps you enjoy books on travel or cuisine because it inspires you to think more about other cultures, which you incorporate into your work.”

This was followed by walking (30%), “a catch-all hobby that speaks to your character. In an interview, walking or hiking can be used to showcase your ability to think independently as well as some of the physically taxing elements of your hobby, depending on your chosen industry”.

The data also revealed that other particularly creative hobbies Brits enjoy include cooking or baking (29%), journaling (22%), writing (20%), knitting or crocheting (17%), and partaking in pottery or ceramics (9%).

“Creativity and commitment are both appealing traits to employers — especially if you’re working in a creative field. Writing could show great communication skills and an attention to detail. Arts and crafts not only take focus and commitment but creativity as well.”

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Solo sports (25%) and team sports (18%) can also be great additions to your CV, as it is “thought to demonstrate self-discipline and focus. In many instances, it can show you’re a team player too, which is attractive to most employers”.

Six per cent of respondents stated they did not do any hobbies or pastimes. Experts at Adobe Express warn that this could hinder your CV, and could mean the difference between getting or not getting an interview if you’re just starting out in your chosen field and lack industry experience. 

Adobe Express add their insight into how to ensure your hobbies will land with a potential employer:

• Align relevant hobbies with the job you’re applying for. Try to avoid hobbies that are irrelevant to the role you want. Determined to include a certain hobby? Word them in a way that seems relevant. If you need to completely change a hobby for it to feel relevant, you may want to leave it out.

• Align hobbies with different skill sets. Does your hobby improve communication skills, problem solving, project management, teamwork, creativity? If not, consider leaving it off the list.

• Don’t meander. As with all things on your CV, try to keep things concise. Focusing on a few curated interests that best complement your desired job role is better than listing every hobby and interest you have. At best it can be overwhelming, and at worst, distracting.

The Top 10 Hobbies Ranked By Adults

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