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Interests

Including an "Interests" section on your finance resume is a strategic decision. While not universally required, it can provide a more well-rounded picture of you as a candidate, particularly if you are early in your career or looking to showcase soft skills and personal qualities relevant to the finance industry. The key is to be selective and strategic, choosing interests that subtly demonstrate skills or personality traits valued by employers in finance.

Strategic Selection

Resist the urge to list generic hobbies. Instead, focus on interests that can be framed as relevant or insightful. For example, instead of saying "Reading," specify "Reading biographies of successful financial leaders" or "Following industry publications like The Wall Street Journal and The Economist." This demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning and staying abreast of industry trends.

If you enjoy activities that involve analytical thinking or problem-solving, highlight them. "Playing strategy games like chess or Go" can subtly suggest an aptitude for strategic planning and risk assessment, skills highly valued in finance. Similarly, "Participating in fantasy sports leagues with in-depth statistical analysis" showcases your analytical abilities and data-driven decision-making.

Interests related to investment or economics can be particularly impactful. "Personal investing in the stock market" (even if on a small scale) shows initiative and a genuine interest in financial markets. "Following macroeconomic trends and analysis" or "Participating in online investment forums" illustrates your intellectual curiosity and engagement with the broader financial landscape.

Demonstrating Soft Skills

Don't underestimate the power of interests that showcase soft skills. "Volunteering as a treasurer for a local non-profit" directly relates to financial management and responsibility. "Leading a fundraising campaign for a charity" demonstrates leadership, communication, and organizational skills. Team sports, like "Playing on a company softball team," can imply teamwork and collaboration skills, which are essential for success in many finance roles.

Keeping it Concise and Professional

Keep the "Interests" section brief, typically no more than 2-3 lines. Use strong action verbs and specific details. For instance, instead of "Sports," say "Competing in triathlons" or "Coaching youth basketball." Avoid controversial or polarizing interests that might create negative biases. Focus on presenting a positive and professional image.

Tailoring to the Role

Like other sections of your resume, tailor the "Interests" section to the specific job description and company culture. Research the company's values and look for opportunities to highlight interests that align with those values. If the company emphasizes innovation, perhaps mention your involvement in a tech-related hobby or side project. If the company values teamwork, showcase team-oriented activities.

Leaving it Out

Finally, consider whether including an "Interests" section is truly beneficial. If you have extensive relevant experience or limited space, it might be more strategic to focus on your professional qualifications. However, if you're looking for a way to stand out and demonstrate a well-rounded personality, a carefully curated "Interests" section can be a valuable asset to your finance resume.