How to Talk About Your Hobbies and Interests in a Job Interview

How to Talk About Your Hobbies and Interests in a Job Interview

Looking for a new job can be stressful, and going through a job interview can be even more nerve-wracking. One of the questions that HR managers usually ask is about your hobbies and interests. While this may seem like an innocuous question, it’s an opportunity to showcase your personality and demonstrate your ability to integrate into a potential new workplace culture. In this article, we’ll explore how to talk about your hobbies and interests in a job interview, and how to make the most out of this question.

Why HR Managers Ask About Hobbies and Interests

HR managers are not only looking for someone with the right qualifications but also someone who is a good fit for the company culture. Companies want employees who enjoy working and are passionate about what they do. By asking about your hobbies and interests, they want to learn more about you as a person and see if you could be a good cultural fit for their team.

It’s important to note that this question isn’t about whether or not your hobby or interest is related to the job. Instead, it’s about understanding what you do in your free time, how you engage with your community, and what drives you to do the things you do.

How to Prepare for the Question

Before attending the interview, it’s important to think about your hobbies and interests and how they can help you stand out. While it’s tempting to list your hobbies and interests at the top of your resume, consider talking about them during the interview instead. This way, you can explain why you’re passionate about them and how they relate to your personality.

When it comes to talking about your hobbies and interests, make sure to keep your answer professional and relevant to the job. Avoid talking about anything controversial or unrelated to the company culture. Stick to hobbies that reflect positively on your character and highlight your experiences.

How to Answer the Question

When you’re asked about your hobbies and interests, take a moment to think about your answer before responding. Don’t be afraid to take a deep breath and compose your thoughts.

Be honest and genuine in your answer. If you enjoy playing a musical instrument, for example, explain how it has taught you discipline, patience, and persistence. If you enjoy running marathons, explain how it has helped you to set goals and work towards achieving them.

Remember, HR managers want to see that you’re passionate and committed to something outside of work. So, if you don’t have any hobbies or interests, consider finding one that fits your personality and lifestyle.

Conclusion

Talking about your hobbies and interests may not seem like an important part of the interview process, but it can be a valuable opportunity to show your personality and demonstrate your fit with the company culture. Don’t shy away from this question, but instead, prepare for it, and use it as a way to showcase the unique qualities you can bring to the job. By following the tips outlined in this article, you’ll be better equipped to ace this question and land the job you want.