Description

what to say when someone asks what your interests are ?

## Beyond Netflix & Chill: How to Ace the “What Are Your Interests?” Interview Question

We’ve all been there: sitting across from a recruiter, sweat beading on our brow as they ask, “So, what are your interests?” It seems simple, a casual icebreaker, right?

Wrong! This question often trips even the most confident applicants up. It’s one of those “tell me about yourself” questions disguised as something lighthearted.

But worry no more! I’m here to break down how to turn this seemingly innocuous question into an opportunity to shine.

**Why Do They Ask?**

It’s not just chitchat. Hiring managers want to get a sense of your:

* **Personality:** Do you fit their company culture? Are you passionate, quirky, analytical?
* **Work Ethic:** Are you a well-rounded individual who pursues interests with dedication?
* **Skills:** Sometimes your hobbies reveal hidden talents that could be relevant to the job.

**Crafting Your Answer:**

* **Beyond the Obvious:** Avoid generic answers like “reading and watching movies.” Go deeper! What kind of books? What genres of movies?
* **The “Why”:** Explain *why* you’re passionate about your interests. What do they teach you? How do they make you feel?
* **Link it to the Job (Subtly):** Try to connect your interests to the role *without* being overly salesy. For example, if you’re interviewing for a marketing position, mentioning your love for photography and graphic design could be relevant.
* **Keep it Concise:** No need to launch into a detailed essay about your stamp collection. Choose 2-3 interests and elaborate briefly.

**Example Answers:**

* “I’m a huge fan of hiking. It helps me de-stress and challenges me both physically and mentally. I also volunteer with a local trail restoration group, which allows me to apply my organizational and teamwork skills outside of work.”
* “I love coding in my free time. I recently built a website for a local charity, which allowed me to practice my problem-solving skills and learn more about web design. I’m always looking for new coding challenges.”

**Remember:**

This question is an opportunity to show your personality and highlight your passions. Be authentic, be prepared, and don’t be afraid to let your interests shine!