Eight out of ten employers admit being influenced by the 'other interests' section.

Job seekers risk trying too hard to sound interesting by listing unusual hobbies on their CVs, according to a new report.

A survey by recruitment firm Reed.co.uk found that the "other interests" section on CVs often influences companies when it comes to deciding who to take on.

The company surveyed almost 1,000 firms who revealed that outside interests were often discussed in interviews.

"Ferret racing" or "an interest in guns" were among the wackier interests which people have listed on their CVs but there is concern that writing too much could backfire.

Likewise, writing too little could also leave candidates off the shortlists, especially if they have limited their interests to 'drinking' or 'reading.'

"Getting your 'other interests' section right on your CV can be a minefield, but it is worth spending time getting this right", said Daniel Ferrandino, director.

"Trying too hard, by making this section too long or too unusual, can be almost as bad as leaving it blank."

Making the right impression on a CV is crucial and job seekers must take into consideration the position for which they are applying when listing their interests.

While many employers are impressed with voluntary work, recreational team activities could also bring valuable skills to the workplace.

Managing a local group or running children's activities could provide good management skills while daredevil leisure pursuits like sky diving or bungee jumping may indicate a potential City trader.