Why I Put My Blog On My Resumé

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I remember the internal debate that I had when I considered putting my blog on my resumé for the first time. I had just graduated from law school and everything on my resumé at that point in my life was the kind of “professional experience” I thought would convince companies to hire me.

That’s why the thought of putting my personal style blog on my resumé seemed silly at the time. How could this hobby-turned-hustle possibly help me stand out from everyone else gunning for the same job as me? Turns out, there are plenty of good reasons to include your side hustle on your resumé. Here’s why:

1. It helps you stand out on paper.
Employers can receive hundreds of applications for a single job opening and on paper, it can seem like almost everyone has the right qualifications to do the job. Go above and beyond the job’s “minimum qualifications” by showcasing the side projects that you’re passionate about. Who knows, including your blog on your resumé might just help make sure that a recruiter picks yours out of a pile of hundreds of others.

2. It gives your potential employer another avenue to explore who you are.
In this day and age, don’t be surprised if your potential employer is looking you up on social media to consider whether you’re the right person to the job. So why not save everyone some time and send them to your site directly? In this case, your blog serves as a “digital portfolio” of sorts. Not only does it showcase some of your best work and writing skills, but it also gives your potential employer insight into who you are, what your personality is like and if you’re a good fit for the company.

3. It can be an interesting talking point during your interview.
I have to admit, I was surprised the first time my future boss brought up my blog during my interview. There I was, sitting in a Senior VP’s office when she complimented me on my ability to mix prints and textures on my blog. It opened the conversation up to personal style and we were able to connect in a more authentic and engaging way than if I had just been rattling off my professional experiences and education.

4. It demonstrates that you’re passionate, determined and creative.
I’m sure all of my blogger and entrepreneurial friends out there will agree – having a side hustle is no easy task and in some cases, it’s like have a full-time job.  Special props go out to those who blog in addition to having a full-time job.  That kind of drive and commitment to something you’re passionate about is sure to impress employers.

5. It showcases some highly valued skillsets.
You know that section at the bottom of your resumé where you list off your additional skills like photography and graphic design? Including your blog on your resumé shows how you bring those skills to life. It can demonstrate your eye for detail, your ability to communicate through writing and organizing information visually. All of these skills are incredibly valued by companies and will help you stand apart from the rest!

So I want to know – do you think including your blog or other creative passions on your resumé is a do or a don’t? I would love to hear your first-hand experience and/or thoughts in the comments section!

P.S. I launched this career-focused series after recently starting on a new professional adventure. It’s my third job since moving to NYC. If you have any specific career-related questions that you’d like to see me tackle, let me know in the comments section, DM me on Instagram or email me at jen@skirttherulesblog.com.

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