How to Answer Hobbies and Interests Interview Question: Tips and Examples
Introduction
When it comes to job interviews, there are a lot of questions that can be asked, and one that always seems to crop up is the “hobbies and interests” question. This type of question is designed to give the interviewer a bit of insight into your personality and what you do with your free time. It’s not just a question to fill up time, as it can be used to evaluate how well you would fit in with the company culture, so it’s important to provide a thoughtful answer.
Body
Here are some tips and examples of how to answer the “hobbies and interests” interview question:
1. Be Honest: The first and most important tip is to be honest. Don’t try to sound like a different person just to impress the interviewer. Share your genuine interests and hobbies.
2. Keep it Professional: While being honest is important, it’s also crucial to keep it professional. Stay away from hobbies or interests that may be considered inappropriate or unprofessional. Instead, focus on things that show you’re a well-rounded and interesting person.
3. Tie it to the Job: One way to make your answer stand out is to tie it back to the position you’re interviewing for. If you’re applying for a marketing position, you could mention how you enjoy social media marketing as a hobby.
4. Be Specific: Don’t just list a bunch of hobbies or interests and move on. Provide detail and show how they’re meaningful to you. For example, instead of saying you enjoy reading, you could elaborate on the specific authors or genres you prefer.
5. Show How You’re Developing Yourself: Mentioning how you’re developing yourself in your hobbies and interests is important. If you’re learning a new skill, mention it. This shows your willingness to learn and grow, which is an admirable quality in an employee.
Here are some examples of great answers to the “hobbies and interests” question:
– “I enjoy hiking because it allows me to disconnect from technology and spend time in nature. It’s a great way to clear my mind and recharge for the week ahead.”
– “I enjoy cooking as a hobby because it’s a great way to experiment with new flavors and ingredients. Plus, it’s a fun way to entertain friends and family.”
– “I enjoy volunteering at a local charity on weekends. It’s a great way to give back to the community and make a positive impact on people’s lives.”
Conclusion
Answering the “hobbies and interests” interview question can seem daunting, but if you follow these tips and provide thoughtful answers, you’ll make a positive impression on the interviewer. Remember to be honest, professional, specific, tie it back to the job, and show how you’re developing yourself through your hobbies and interests. With a bit of preparation and practice, you’ll be able to nail this question in your next interview.
