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Including hobbies and interests on your CV can be valuable, but relevance is paramount, so always tailor this section to align with the job you're applying for. While the education section and work experience section are critical components, supplementary sections like hobbies and interests can also play an important role in showcasing your personality and suitability for the role.
In this step-by-step guide, we cover:
The benefits of including hobbies and interests on your CV
List of hobbies and interests to include on your CV according to different industries
When and where to include hobbies and interests on your CV
Best strategies and mistakes to avoid when adding this optional CV section.
Should you put hobbies and interests on a CV?
Including hobbies and interests on your CV is optional and depends on the role and company you're applying to. Some employers don’t value this section as much, while others appreciate it as a way to see your personality and how you might fit into their culture.
Pro tip
Make sure to tailor your CV to the company’s tone, values, and level of formality. If the role emphasises adaptability, creativity, or learning, mentioning relevant hobbies can add a personal touch.
Who should include them?
Who should exclude them?
Seasoned professionals
Jobseekers with irrelevant hobbies or interests
Applicants who apply to very conservative industries
Professionals with too much experience on the CV.
To strategically incorporate hobbies and interests into your CV, refer to our related article on crafting a skills-based CV.
Hobbies and interests for a CV example
Download this free hobbies and interests CV sample for the UK in PDF.
How to make the 'hobbies and interests' CV section work?
Format the hobbies and interests CV section with clear bullet points, keeping it concise and tailored to highlight relevant skills, such as leadership, teamwork, and analytical thinking.
Focus on activities that align with your career goals, like attending workshops, reading psychology books, or volunteering.
Position this section at the end of your CV to add value and complement your education and experience effectively.
List of top 10 hobbies and interests for your CV
The best hobbies to include on a CV are those that highlight relevant skills or qualities. Hobbies that demonstrate teamwork, leadership, creativity, or problem-solving abilities can positively impact the application process. Explore the modern CV example for more inspiration.
1. Community and social engagement
Hobbies show your employer you are proactive and committed to making a difference. They will also help you develop valuable skills, offer opportunities for networking, and improve your interpersonal skills.
| Good hobbies for a CV |
|---|
| Volunteering for local charities |
| Assisting with community events |
| Mentoring or coaching youth groups |
Explore our volunteer CV example and volunteer cover letter example for more details and valuable career advice.
2. Language skills
Learning and speaking multiple languages improves your cultural awareness, communication skills, and adaptability. These abilities are especially useful in roles related to international business, customer service, and translation.
| Good hobbies for a CV |
|---|
| Learning a new language (e.g. Spanish, Mandarin, French) |
| Participating in language exchange groups |
| Translating documents for local businesses |
If you want to pursue a career in journalism, international business, customer service, cabin crew, or translation, this hobby could be a great fit for you.
3. Creative and artistic pursuits
Engaging in creative hobbies demonstrates innovation, passion, and attention to detail. It also reveals your ability to think outside the box and relax, giving insight into your well-rounded personality.
| Good hobbies for a CV |
|---|
| Sketching or painting |
| Graphic design and digital art |
| Writing stories, blogs, or poetry |
For more inspiration, check out our artist CV example, graphic designer CV example, and makeup artist CV example guides.
4. Sports and physical activities
Proactive involvement in sports shows you are disciplined, goal-driven, and able to work as part of a team. It promotes a healthy work-life balance and boosts mental resilience, making you an ideal candidate for high-pressure roles.
| Good hobbies for a CV |
|---|
| Playing team sports (e.g. football, basketball) |
| Running or cycling |
| Yoga or Pilates |
For more inspiration, check out our footballer CV, sports CV, and personal trainer CV guides.
5. Writing and content creation
Writing shows your communication skills, creativity, and ability to express complex ideas clearly. Creating content also demonstrates digital literacy and the ability to connect with diverse audiences.
| Good hobbies for a CV |
|---|
| Blogging or journaling |
| Writing short stories or articles |
| Developing a YouTube or podcast channel |
For more inspiration, refer to our related writer CV and journalist CV guides.
6. Reading and research
Reading broadens your knowledge and sharpens your critical thinking skills. It shows you are a lifelong learner and can stay informed about industry trends, helping bring fresh ideas to any job.
| Good hobbies for a CV |
|---|
| Reading books on personal development or industry-specific topics |
| Subscribing to and reading magazines or journals |
| Researching emerging trends in your field |
For more inspiration, refer to our related academic CV guide.
7. Problem-solving and strategic thinking
Engaging in activities that challenge your mind helps you develop problem-solving and decision-making skills. These hobbies can also improve your creativity and cognitive abilities, which are valuable in many roles.
| Good hobbies for a CV |
|---|
| Playing chess or strategic board games |
| Solving puzzles and brain teasers |
| Participating in escape rooms or strategy games |
For more inspiration, refer to our related developer CV guide.
8. Music and performance
Learning a musical instrument or performing shows dedication, patience, and creativity. These activities can also highlight your ability to work with others in a collaborative environment.
| Good hobbies for a CV |
|---|
| Playing a musical instrument (e.g. piano, guitar) |
| Singing or joining a choir |
| Participating in local theatre or dance productions |
If you wish to transform your hobby into a job, consider reading our related musician CV example guide.
9. Visual Arts and Design
Involvement in the visual arts shows creativity, attention to detail, and an ability to work with different media. These skills are transferable to roles requiring creativity and precision.
| Good hobbies for a CV |
|---|
| Photography and photo editing |
| Interior design or architecture modelling |
| Fashion design or styling |
Check out our photographer CV and designer CV examples for more tips and examples.
10. Technology and Digital Skills
Technical skills are highly sought after in today’s tech-driven world. Learning programming languages or exploring new software tools shows that you can adapt to new technologies and solve problems efficiently.
| Good hobbies for a CV |
|---|
| Coding or web development |
| Graphic design or video editing |
| Learning digital marketing tools (e.g. SEO, Google Analytics) |
Refer to our software developer CV and machine learning CV engineer CV examples to learn more.
What hobbies and interests should you include on a CV in 2025?
Including trending hobbies shows adaptability and passion, giving recruiters insight into your values and skills. Remember that employers today look for individuals who not only excel at their jobs but also bring something unique to the table.
| Popular hobbies to add to your CV | |
|---|---|
| Mindfulness and well-being activities | Practising yoga, mindfulness, or meditation shows your focus on mental health, resilience, and self-awareness, highly valued qualities in the workplace. |
| Sustainability-focused interests | Activities like upcycling, eco-friendly crafting, or participating in environmental projects demonstrate your awareness of and commitment to sustainability. |
| Tech-based hobbies | From coding and gaming to exploring AI tools or building apps, these interests reflect your tech-savvy nature and willingness to embrace innovation. |
| Creative pursuits | Whether it’s photography, painting, or podcasting, creative hobbies show off your ability to think differently and bring fresh ideas. |
| Community involvement | Volunteering or helping to organise local events signals strong leadership and teamwork skills. |
Check out our related blog article on AI CV writing and most in-demand jobs in 2025 for more tips and examples to help you succeed in your next role.
Are interests and hobbies the same?
Although hobbies and interests are related, they differ in how they engage you.
Hobbies:
They require active participation and dedication.
Hobbies often take time to cultivate and are activities you actively pursue during your leisure hours.
They can range from sketching or capturing street photos, to designing with software.
Examples of hobbies to include on a CV
Interests:
These are topics or subjects that pique your curiosity.
Interests are more passive and may inspire learning or exploration.
For example, an interest in architecture might involve appreciating photography or arts. And an interest in music might lead to learning an instrument, or starting a band.
Examples of interests to include on a CV
Check out our related cornerstone article on how to write a good CV, focusing on the must-have and optional sections.
How to list hobbies and interests on a CV
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to effectively include hobbies and interests on your CV:
1. Consider their relevance
While hobbies and interests may not be as crucial as CV skills, work experience, or education, it's still important to evaluate their relevance to your job targets. Focus on including hobbies that showcase skills and qualities that align with the desired role.
Hobby/interest for a Project Manager CV
Strategy games: They sharpen strategic thinking, problem-solving, and planning under pressure.
Hobby/interest for a Software Developer CV
Chess: It develops logical thinking, foresight, and decision-making under pressure.
2. Highlight transferable skills
Take note of the skills you have acquired through your hobbies and interests. These skills can be as valuable as those gained from work or training.
Pro tip
For example, if you enjoy playing team sports, add them to your hobbies and interests CV section, as they demonstrate your teamwork and collaboration abilities.
3. Showcase unique strengths
Incorporating hobbies and interests in your CV allows you to stand out from other candidates. Use this section to showcase some of your unique strengths and passions. It can help create a more well-rounded and memorable impression.
Pro tip
For example, if you’re applying for a Marketing role, instead of just writing “podcasting”, you could frame it as: "Volunteer podcast host: built interviewing, research, and public speaking skills while engaging a global audience."
4. Tailor to the job description
Analyse the job description and identify any specific skills or traits that the employer is seeking. If your hobbies and interests align with these requirements, include them in your CV. This demonstrates your fit for the role and can catch the attention of recruiters.
Hobbies and interests for a Customer Succes Manager CV
Job description: “We’re looking for a proactive communicator with strong problem-solving skills, empathy, and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse clients.”
Tailored hobbies & interests: - Community volunteering: mentored newcomers at a local career centre, building empathy and communication skills. - Team sports (football): developed collaboration, adaptability, and leadership on and off the pitch. - Travel: gained cultural awareness and the ability to adapt to diverse environments.
5. Keep it concise
Remember to keep your hobbies and interests section concise and focused. Select a few key activities that best highlight your skills and align with the job you're applying for. Avoid listing too many hobbies, as it may distract from the more essential sections of your CV.
Hiking: demonstrates perseverance and goal-setting.
Reading non-fiction: shows curiosity and continuous learning.
Reading, music, gaming, travelling, cooking, photography, gardening, cycling, chess
Watching Netflix, hanging out with friends, social media
6. Provide examples and achievements
To make your CV stand out even more, when mentioning your hobbies and interests in a CV, go beyond just listing them. Provide specific examples and achievements related to each activity. This adds depth to your CV and helps employers understand the impact you've made through your hobbies.
Hobbies and interests with achievements
- Piano: achieved Grade 6 certification, requiring dedication and consistent practice. - Debating society: won regional public speaking competition, enhancing persuasion and presentation skills. - Coding side projects: created a mobile budgeting app with 500+ downloads, demonstrating initiative and technical skills.
7. Stay professional
While it's important to showcase your personality, ensure that your hobbies and interests remain professional and appropriate for a CV. Avoid controversial or overly personal activities that may create a negative impression.
Include hobbies that highlight positive qualities, teamwork, or discipline.
Volunteering: built empathy, leadership, and community engagement skills.
Mention hobbies that could raise concerns or feel unprofessional.
Political activism (can create bias or conflict)
By following these guidelines, you can effectively incorporate your hobbies and interests into your CV, showcasing relevant skills and strengths that make you a standout candidate. See the support worker CV example for more inspiration.
10 examples of job-specific hobbies and interests on a CV
Below you can find three examples of jobs and corresponding hobbies and interests relevant to each position.
| 1. Architect CV hobbies and interests |
|---|
| Sketching and drawing |
| Travelling and exploring |
| Graphical modelling |
For more information, check out our related architect CV and architect cover letter writing guides.
| 2. Travel writer CV hobbies and interests |
|---|
| Personal blog |
| Photography |
| Language learning |
Consult our writer CV and writer cover letter examples to find more inspiration.
| 3. Event manager CV hobbies and interests |
|---|
| Organising fundraising events |
| Volunteering for community events |
| Developing invitation letters |
Explore our event manager CV example guide for more examples and tips.
| 4. IT CV hobbies and interests |
|---|
| Coding and programming (e.g. building apps or websites) |
| Playing strategic games (e.g. chess) |
| Robotics |
Refer to our IT CV example article for more details about the information to include.
| 5. Journalist CV hobbies and interests |
|---|
| Podcasting or hosting a radio show |
| Public speaking or joining a debate club |
| Storytelling via blogs, video or animation |
See our journalist CV guide for more industry-specific tips.
| 6. Construction or Engineering CV hobbies and interests |
|---|
| 3D printing projects |
| Woodworking |
| Restoration projects for historical buildings |
To learn more, consult our construction CV or engineering CV and engineer cover letter writing guides.
| 7. Teacher CV hobbies and interests: |
|---|
| Playing musical instruments |
| Craftsmanship |
| Journalling |
See our related teaching assistant CV and teaching assistant cover letter for more valuable advice.
| 8. Catering CV hobbies and interests |
|---|
| Recipe testing or creation |
| Cocktail techniques |
| Attending cooking workshops or master classes |
Check out our catering assistant CV and bartender CV examples for more inspiration.
| 9. Personal Trainer CV hobbies and interests |
|---|
| Sports coaching for youth teams |
| Hiking or rock climbing |
| Participating in sports competitions |
For more information, see our personal trainer CV example or sports CV example.
| 10. Finance CV hobbies and interests: |
|---|
| Joining investment clubs |
| Simulation games |
| Reading financial news or market reports |
Refer to the finance cover letter or finance CV example.
Hobbies and interests to avoid on a CV
When deciding which hobbies to include or leave off your CV, consider the impression you want to make on potential employers. Ask yourself if your hobbies and interests are suitable for the job you're applying for.
Extreme or illegal activities
Street racing, night parkour running, rock climbing without protection, skydiving.
Generic activities
Binge-watching TV series, listening to music, walking, web shopping, scrolling on social media.
Religious/political hobbies or interests
Attending protests, squatting, joining political groups, volunteering for religious communities (unless you're applying for a job in that area).
Hobbies & interests essentials
Choose hobbies and interests that show transferable skills and strengthen your application.
Place the ‘Hobbies & Interests’ section at the end of your CV to keep focus on key content.
Use your hobbies as a chance to elaborate further in interviews or cover letters.
Avoid extreme or controversial activities that could appear unprofessional.
Skip irrelevant or generic hobbies that don’t add value to your CV.
Keep descriptions short and concise, saving space for more important sections.
Next steps?
We have all the tools and resources you need to build your CV easily. If you’re stuck and need help reviewing a CV, contact our experts at CV Writing Services. We help you every step of the way by tailoring your CV to a specific job and selecting the right skills. Additionally, we provide a collection of diverse cover letter templates you can customise based on your career goals. Lastly, for an extensive list of samples suitable for the UK job market, refer to our CV examples. For more expert tips, read our blog articles on how to start a cover letter or good questions to ask in an interview.
Starting your career journey? Discover our best advice for crafting a professional CV for a first job!
FAQ
Where to mention hobbies and interests on a CV?
To incorporate hobbies and interests effectively, instead of placing them at the top of your CV, consider positioning them towards the end under the "Hobbies and Interests" section. If a hobby can be translated into relevant work experience, include it under the "Additional Experience" section instead. This allows the information to be present without overshadowing the essential sections. By reserving it for later, you can elaborate on your hobbies and interests during an interview, if desired.
What are the benefits of adding hobbies and interests to a CV?
Including hobbies and interests can strengthen the CV of someone with little to no work experience. Firstly, it showcases interests that look beyond work experience and education. Adding hobbies and interests helps build a more personal connection with the employer.
Additional benefits of adding hobbies and interests:
Displays your eagerness to learn new skills that employers look for.
Demonstrates your ability to adapt while striving to achieve the best results.
Shows off your problem-solving, analytical or creative skills.
Proves that you’re ready to commit to your goals or stick to your routine.
Makes you stand out from the rest by making your CV more personal.
What are the common mistakes to avoid when adding hobbies and interests to a CV?
Including specific hobbies and interests on a CV can also have a negative effect on your application. Here are some expert reasons why you should leave them out:
Hobbies that aren’t related to the job take focus away from your skills and experience.
Avoid listing “watching Netflix, online shopping, and scrolling Instagram” on a CV for a finance role.
CV space is valuable, so prioritise your qualifications over unnecessary hobbies.
Avoid writing a long paragraph about “my passion for walking my dog every day and how it helps me clear my mind” instead of focusing on achievements.
Don’t include hobbies that share personal details, such as beliefs or preferences, that may not be relevant to the employer or seen as inappropriate.
Avoid listing “tracking my spiritual journey through journaling” or “attending therapy support groups" on your CV.
What are the most common hobbies and interests in the UK?
Common hobbies and interests in the UK range from sports like football and golf to creative activities such as painting and music. Popular outdoor hobbies and interests include hiking, gardening and fishing. Lastly, hobbies such as technology, gaming, and social media have become more prominent in recent years.
Do recruiters read hobbies and interests?
As a rule of thumb, recruiters or hiring managers would pay attention to your hobbies and interests if they seem like a match for the position you're applying for and, more importantly, if you've included all the other must-have sections in your application.
To do it right, take note of the main CV keywords from the job description and add them to your CV where applicable. It gives a glimpse into your personality, creating a good basis for the last interview talk.
Can you put games on a CV for hobbies?
You can put games on a CV for hobbies if they are relevant to the job you are applying for. If the games are directly related to the job or demonstrate specific skills like strategy or teamwork, it is acceptable to mention them. However, it's crucial to exercise caution and consider the employer's perception, as some may not view gaming as a desirable or professional hobby.
Can I put going to the gym as a hobby on my CV?
Yes, listing the gym as a hobby on your CV can be effective, particularly for sports-related roles. However, it’s best to include it only if you are genuinely passionate and committed to it. As always, ensure it aligns with the job you’re applying for to make it relevant and impactful. During the job interview, you can elaborate, demonstrating consistency and dedication to your goals. Instead of saying ‘going to the gym’, highlight specific awards or accomplishments such as winning a competition or fitness coaching.
Is travelling a good hobby for my CV?
Travelling can be a valuable hobby to include on your CV, especially if it aligns with your target job or industry, such as a travel agent. It can demonstrate cultural awareness, adaptability, and a global perspective. Additionally, travelling can showcase skills such as planning, budgeting, and problem-solving and the ability to communicate effectively in diverse environments.
