How can the Arts impact your resume?

Hi Samuel,

While it is difficult to say if a particular company or the particular person reviewing your application at that company would care or not is hard to say.However, I do see the benefit of listing experience in the arts on your resume especially if you do not have a lot of work experience yet. Playing the piano or any other instrument indicates that you have self-discipline, that you are teachable/coachable, that you are committed to working hard to meet a goal, and so on. The key will be learning how to talk about those skills as transferable skills. A good example would be answering the question, "What do you think makes you stand out over the other candidates for this position?" Anyone can answer that question by saying they are disciplined and coachable, two things many employers are looking for in potential job candidates. You will be able to give specific examples of these traits by referring to your time taking piano lessons. For example, "What sets me apart from other candidates is a history of proven self-discipline. I played piano for x amount of years and in addition to my regular lessons I spent x amount of hours a week practicing on my own. When it comes to learning skills for this position I will use that same self-discipline. I'm also very coachable. While I feel that I would bring fresh talent to the team at your company I also recognize that there is so much I can learn from senior leadership. My piano teacher was an invaluable source during the years I took lessons and I was always eager to apply his or her suggestions to improve my techniques. In the same way I look forward to the invaluable coaching I know I would receive from the managers and leaders here at x"

Personal interests and hobbies can provide a great launching pad for talking about your unique skills and strengths during an interview when you learn to talk about them in a way that is transferable to what the employer is looking for.

Hope you find that helpful!

Good question Samuel. I had this question years ago. The answer is surprisingly sometimes yes. At a minimum it shows whatever you are achieving in what they do care about, you do it with the addition of becoming a well-rounded person. And, people like to be around well-rounded people. Finally, it speaks to having a larger world view. I also agree with @Bethany's points.

Creativity and diversity is why you should include your piano skills, which some people do not have or desire to learn. Good luck

Hi Samuel!

The answer is yes, no, or maybe. Here is an explanation:

https://www.livecareer.com/resume-tips/resume-components/activities-interests/should-you-include-hobbies-in-your-resume