Advice required on writing your hobbies/interests on cv

geek84

Hi Folks

In my spare time, I like playing Blackjack - a card game.

At present, I am applying for jobs and was wondering if it would be 'safe' to put this down as a hobby/leisure interest on my cv?

If I do put it on the cv, would there be a danger in a prospective future employer thinking that I am some sort of 'gambler'?

Thanks in advance for your response.

Caroline73_2

If it isn't going to enhance your chances of getting a job then don't put it on your CV.

Personally I wouldn't put any of my hobbies down.

smileylondongal

I have put 'safer' interests down but whatever you do put down, be prepared to talk about it. This is completely personal choice, but I wouldnt put it down as you never know what goes through the reader's mind and you don't want to limit your chances for something this trivial.

ultrarunner

Putting hobbies down on a CV is the sort of thing one tends to do to fill space - so more suited to someone with little job experience or returning to the labour market after time out.

However I would steer clear of mentioning blackjack as unless the job vacancy is croupier it will probably give the wrong impression.

kingfisherblue

Some application forms specifically ask about hobbies, but I wouldn't put gambling of any type down. It really doesn't give a good impression! Do you read or watch films? Maybe you could put down a 'safe' choice of activities if you really need to put any down.

tom717

ultrarunner wrote: »

Putting hobbies down on a CV is the sort of thing one tends to do to fill space - so more suited to someone with little job experience or returning to the labour market after time out.

I've always been told by career advisors to put something down as it gives a little insight to you as a person (tbf this hasn't landed me a job yet).

vax2002

Deer hunter ?

purple.sarah

Don't do it! I know you don't necessarily play for money or irresponsibly but it is associated with gambling, which is not a good association to put in the employer's mind.

Don't just put down random interests either, think of what is relevant to the job. Blackjack isn't unless you're going for a job as a Blackjack dealer! For example I put reading for a job I know needs good English skills, computers for a job that requires computer knowledge etc.

Mind_the_Gap

I agree with the general consensus - don't mention blackjack!

Reading impresses (as long as you do read); playing an instrument, participating in sport; community work (esp. voluntary); anything which allows you to develop/show leadership skills, organisation and initiative, e.g. self-funded travelling to far-flung places.

I conduct mock interviews with 17 year olds in preparation for their work experience placements and I despair at the number who say they don't have any interests, or that they just like playing on their Xbox, going on Facebook or watching TV.

DCFC79

I have on my cv I watch films at the cinema, read books/magazines, listen to music, socialise etc.

purplepardalis

I never put anything down and as a managers that recruits, it doesn't influence me whether a candidate puts down hobbies or not