Today I wanted to share the answer to a question that is asked regularly when I am working with people on their career plans. The issue of how much of your personal life you can share in your CV, application form or interview. Or even if you can share at all!
We can all recall our school days career advice, and how we are told to include our hobbies. It makes sense when we are entering the world of work, and our work experience is lacking. But what about when you are a decade or more deep, is that something that we still need to include?
If you have spent any time with me, either as a client, or a reader of my blog, you will know I have spent over twenty years working with people’s CVs. What always strikes me as odd is how little the advice has changed, yet the way we work, and the skills we need, have significantly evolved. This, in turn, has changed the way we interview and recruit. A fitting example of this is the inclusion of values as part of an application process. Yet, these are not always considered when we are creating a CV or crafting an application form.
So, to help, I’m going to reframe this issue (in true Coach style!) Rather than answer the question “Should I still include my hobbies in my CV?” I want you to instead ask “What is it about my personal life that shows I am right for a role?
These four key areas are elements that I coach and mentor clients on when we are working on their career development and job search. So, today I want to share them with you.
Lived Experience
This is the knowledge and understanding you get when you’ve personally lived through something. It’s particularly valuable when you’re applying to work in the charity or third sector. Your personal experiences can provide insights that no amount of training can replicate.
Showing Your Values
How you spend your spare time says a lot about what’s important to you. Whether it’s volunteering, showing commitment to a cause, prioritising health or continuous learning, – these all paint a picture of who you are. The WHOLE you!
Your scope of skills
Sometimes our hobbies showcase talents that don’t get an airing at work. It could be creativity, languages, writing or exceptional event management! Don’t think the only thing worth mentioning is traditional paid work.
Additional Responsibilities
You might demonstrate leadership, accountability, problem-solving or sector knowledge in your spare time. Perhaps you’re the treasurer for a local club or the go-to person in the PTA? These are also extra ways to evidence the skills you will highlight in point 3!
With all this in mind, next time you are applying for a role, remember, that your personal life isn’t just a footnote – it’s a part of what makes you uniquely qualified for your next role. So don’t be afraid to let it shine through in your applications. After all, they’re not just hiring a set of skills, they’re hiring a whole person – and that person is YOU!
Finally, as an added reflection, for those who have the position of a decision maker, expand your view on what suitable experience “looks like”, You may just find that your next hire is accidently in the “reject pile”.
Hopefully, this will help anyone who’s currently job-seeking. And don’t forget, if you need a bit more support, I offer a range of specific CV services, including my Fast & Focused package for £150.
Read the previous Ask Me Anything Q&A here!
Clara Wilcox is a straight talking, practical and experienced coach helping clients navigate the tricky waters of returning to work, career changes and professional development. The Balance Collective is a social enterprise focused on improving the lives of parents, by working together to build inner confidence and promote a healthy work/life balance.
