Are Interests of Interest on a CV?

Absolutely!

Although it’s quite common to see CV’s without an interest section, I’m an advocate of including one. So why, when you are applying for a job, is interests of interest then, and how best to include one?

An interests section is another opportunity to market yourself and build rapport

As well as giving the reader a further insight into your personality, you’re also helping yourself as you should be comfortable with questions about your interests, and the answers should come easily to you.

They may require a little preparation ahead of the interview though. For example, if you’re going to put down reading as an interest be sure to have your latest book and author at the forefront of your mind ahead of the interview!

Don’t fall foul of the “so what” interests section.  

A “so what” interests section is where you simply list your interests. Instead, write a couple of sentences a bit like your Personal Statement.  A nice bookend pairing don’t you think? Personal Statement at the top and Interests at the bottom – start and end with what makes you you? For example, in the reading example you could include particular genres of reading and why you like them.

And finally, make sure they are your GENUINE interests. I know this sounds obvious, however it’s all too easy to think “these interests will sound great and make me stand out” or “these interests are likely to appeal to the organisation”, when the reality is you’re likely to get caught out when the questions get asked.

Be of interest and include your interests!

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