Do not shy from listing interests in a resume. Interests deserve a special heading of their own to show prospective employers what makes you tick. Of course, listing interests is not necessarily a requirement. Why should they be when they have nothing to do with the job. But putting them out there to the world displays confidence, commitment, and curiosity.
In this contemporary culture, which allows religious freedom yet separates church and state, some people understandably decline to list politics and religion as interests. Therefore, they hesitate to note their service as delegates of a political party, or directors of a youth group within their religious community. Nevertheless, writing about abiding general interests in government service and youth development should not hurt.
The interests section also allows you to place talents that set you apart from others, such as proficiency in a fine or performing art or in another language. Anecdotal evidence tells me that possessing such skills distinguishes people often in unexpected ways.
If you feel comfortable talking about your participation in the Crochet Guild of America, Dramatists Guild, or US Chess Federation, you should ask yourself what's bothering you. We are all unique. What makes you so?
