Can I Add Crafting as a Hobby to My Resume?

Yes, you can definitely add crafting as a hobby to your resume, especially if it showcases skills relevant to the job you're applying for. Crafting hobbies can be a valuable addition to your resume, making you stand out and providing potential employers with a more nuanced view of your capabilities. Here are some tips on how to include your crafting hobbies effectively:

Relevance

The most compelling reason to include crafting on your resume is its relevance to the job. If the position requires creativity, attention to detail, or project management skills, mentioning your crafting hobby can demonstrate that you have these qualities. For example, crafting often requires patience, precision, and the ability to follow through on complex projects. Highlighting these skills can make you a more appealing candidate.

Specificity

Add detail to your resume by specifying the types of crafting you do. For instance, mention if you are a knitter, a woodworker, or work on DIY projects. This provides potential employers with a clearer picture of your skills and experience. You can also highlight specific projects and outcomes, such as creating a custom piece of furniture or knitting intricate garments. For example:

Hobbies and Interests
Crafting: Engaged in various forms of crafting including knitting and woodworking which enhance my attention to detail and creativity.

Be specific about the skills you've developed through crafting, such as problem-solving, planning, and design. These skills can be transferable to many different job roles.

Placement

Deciding where to place crafting on your resume can depend on the job and the culture of the organization. If you are clear about how the crafting hobby aligns with the job, include it in the 'Hobbies and Interests' section. However, if the job is highly specialized or technical, consider integrating your hobbies into the 'Skills and Technology' section. This can help you avoid diluting the focus of your resume. For example:

Hobbies and Interests
Crafting: Engaged in various forms of crafting including knitting and woodworking which enhance my attention to detail and creativity.

Skills and Technology
Projects Management: Experience managing projects similar to crafting where attention to detail and precision are crucial.

Research the Organization

Before adding your crafting experience to your resume, do your research on the organization. Some companies value individuals with creative hobbies, and including them can be a competitive edge. However, if the job you are applying for does not require these skills, it may not be relevant to include it. Instead, focus on any other transferable skills or experiences that align better with the job description.

Conclusion

Including crafting as a hobby can make your resume stand out and demonstrate your diverse skill set. However, it’s important to align your hobby with the job requirements and the company culture. By being selective and providing specific details, your crafting hobby can be a valuable addition to your resume.

For more information on what to include in resumes, consult this blog:

[Include a link to the relevant blog here]