Interests and Other Data

Strategic Hobbies

Including an interests or hobbies section is optional, but can be a powerful tool to humanize the profile and demonstrate soft skills indirectly. The key is to select hobbies that add professional or cultural value, avoiding those that are too generic or passive. A recommended structure is to choose one active, one intellectual and one creative hobby to show a balanced profile.

For example, instead of simply putting "movies" or "reading," a candidate could mention that he or she participates in marathons (suggesting discipline and endurance) or that he or she plays chess in local tournaments (implying strategic thinking).

If the hobby is directly related to work, such as a programmer who develops "indie" video games in his spare time or a journalist who maintains a literature blog, this should be highlighted, as it demonstrates a vocation that goes beyond work obligation.

Languages

Language proficiency is a key asset in the global marketplace. For this information to be useful, it must be accurate and honest.

It is recommended to use recognized standards, such as the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (A1-C2), rather than subjective terms such as "intermediate" or "advanced", which can be interpreted in many ways.

A serious mistake is to inflate the language level, as it is very easy to check during an interview.

If a "bilingual" or "native" level is indicated, the candidate must be able to hold a complex negotiation in that language without difficulty.

If the level is basic, it is preferable to be transparent or, in some cases, omit it if it does not provide real value for the position, focusing on those languages where you really have professional competence.

References

The inclusion of direct references in the resume (names and telephone numbers of former employers) is a practice that is falling into disuse for reasons of privacy and space.

The current norm is to include a brief note indicating that "references are available upon request" if space permits, or simply omit it on the assumption that they will be requested at an advanced stage.

The key is to have the list of people who will act as references ready.

Former supervisors, teachers or clients should be contacted beforehand to ask their permission and let them know that they might be called.

It is strategic to talk to them about what aspects to highlight from the past collaboration, ensuring that the message they give is aligned with the image the candidate wants to project in the new selection process.

This is not about scripting their response, but rather refreshing their memory on shared accomplishments to avoid vague answers that do not add value.

Summary

Including hobbies is optional but useful to humanize the profile if selected strategically. Generic hobbies should be avoided, opting for those that indirectly demonstrate valuable soft skills such as discipline or strategic thinking.

Language proficiency is a fundamental asset that should be described with recognized standards and total honesty. Inflating the level is a serious mistake easily detectable in the interview, so accuracy is mandatory.

It is not necessary to include contact information for references in the initial document; it is sufficient to indicate their availability. The essential thing is to prepare the references in advance to ensure that their comments reinforce the candidacy.