When Hobbies Help Your CV (And When They Hurt)

## The Short Answer Include hobbies only if they prove something. A hobby should demonstrate a skill, signal cultural fit, or create a memorable talking point. If it does none of these, delete it. ## The Strategic Filter Before adding any interest to your CV, run it through this test: **Does it prove a transferable skill?** Marathon running proves perseverance. Chess proves strategic thinking. Volunteer teaching proves leadership. These hobbies work because they imply workplace behaviour. **Does it signal cultural fit?** If the company values teamwork, mentioning your five-a-side league matters. If they value creativity, your weekend pottery class becomes relevant. Research the culture first. **Does it create a conversation hook?** Interviewers remember specifics. "I restore vintage motorcycles" is memorable. "I like cars" is not. Your hobby should invite a question. ## When Hobbies Hurt Some hobbies raise red flags or waste space: - **Politically divisive activities** — Keep affiliations off the page. - **High-risk extreme sports** — Some employers see liability, not bravery. - **Generic filler** — "Socialising" and "travelling" say nothing. - **Anything you can't discuss** — If you listed it to look good, you'll flounder when asked. ## The Seniority Question At junior level, hobbies can fill space and show personality. At executive level, they're optional. A CFO doesn't need to prove they have a life outside work. The CV speaks for itself. **Rule of thumb:** The more senior the role, the less space hobbies deserve. ## Pre-Flight Checklist Before you include a hobby, confirm it passes: - [ ] It demonstrates a specific, transferable skill. - [ ] It aligns with the company's stated culture or values. - [ ] It's specific enough to spark a conversation. - [ ] You can discuss it confidently for 60 seconds. - [ ] It avoids controversy, politics, or unnecessary risk signals. --- *For more on career positioning, explore our [Career Strategy](/career-strategy) insights.*