Latest / Interview Prep with Fexingo: Behavioral Questions, Case Studies, and Hiring Manager Insights / How to Answer the What Are Your Hobbies Question
Transcript
- Lucas: So Luna, I want to talk about a question that seems like a throwaway, but is actually a sneaky cultural-fit test. The 'What are your hobbies?' question. Luna: Oh, that one. I've seen candidates completely blow it by mumbling something about Netflix and hanging out with friends. Lucas: Exactly. And I get why they freeze. It feels like a personal question, but the interviewer isn't really asking about your weekend plans. They're trying to figure out if you're someone they want to work with for forty hours a week. Luna: So how do you actually answer it without sounding like you've rehearsed a script? Lucas: Well, first, let's talk about why interviewers ask this. It's one of the few questions where you can show genuine enthusiasm, and it reveals characteristics that are hard to fake. For example, if you train for marathons, that signals discipline and goal-setting. If you play in a band, that's teamwork and creativity. Luna: So you're saying the hobby itself doesn't matter as much as what it says about you? Lucas: Right. And that's the key. You want to pick one or two hobbies that align with the role or the company's values. Say you're interviewing at a startup that values innovation. A hobby like building open-source software or tinkering with electronics shows that mindset. If it's a client-facing role, maybe something like improv comedy, which shows communication and adaptability. Luna: I remember a candidate once told me she was an amateur photographer, and she explained how that taught her to look for the best angle in every situation. She framed it as being detail-oriented and patient. That stuck with me. Lucas: That's a perfect example. She didn't just say 'I like photography.' She connected it to a skill. Now, what about the classic 'I love to travel'? Is that a complete no-go? Luna: I'd say it's overused, but not disqualifying. The problem is it's so generic. If you say travel, you need to add a specific twist. Like, 'I love exploring food markets in new cities because it gets me out of my comfort zone.' That's more memorable. Lucas: Exactly. Specificity is your friend. And another thing: avoid listing a ton of hobbies. You're not trying to be the most interesting person in the world. One or two, maybe three, with some depth, is way better than a laundry list. Luna: What about hobbies that are too personal or potentially controversial? Like, would you ever advise someone to mention their political volunteering or religious activities? Lucas: I'd steer away from anything that could be polarizing. You don't know the interviewer's views, and you don't want to create an unintentional divide. Stick to hobbies that are positive and universally relatable. That said, if you're applying to a nonprofit that aligns with your volunteer work, it might be relevant. But even then, I'd frame it carefully. Luna: So what if you genuinely don't have any 'interesting' hobbies? Like, you're a homebody and your weekends are mostly chores and errands. Lucas: Everyone has something. Even if it's just cooking or reading. But you can elevate it. For instance, instead of 'I like to cook,' say 'I'm into meal-prepping healthy food, which teaches me time management and planning.' That's a skill. Or if you read a lot, mention that you're in a book club and enjoy discussing big ideas with people. Luna: That's a nice reframe. And what about the risk of oversharing? Like, do you want to mention that you play video games or watch reality TV? Lucas: Video games can be fine if you tie it to problem-solving or strategic thinking, especially in a tech role. Reality TV? Probably not the best idea, unless you're applying for a role in media or entertainment and you can talk about understanding audience psychology. But generally, keep it professional. Luna: Okay, so let's talk about the structure of an answer. Is there a specific format you recommend? Lucas: I like the one-two punch: start with a specific hobby, then immediately explain what it gives you. For example, 'I've been playing chess in a local club for five years, and it's taught me to think several moves ahead and stay calm under pressure.' That's two sentences, and it gives the interviewer something to grab onto. Luna: And you can also connect it to the company. Like, 'I love that your company values continuous learning, and my hobby of woodworking feeds that same curiosity.' Lucas: Exactly. That shows you've done your homework and you're not just recycling an answer. But don't force it. If the connection feels too contrived, it's better to keep it simple and authentic. Luna: So what's the biggest mistake you see candidates make with this question? Lucas: Probably giving a one-word answer. 'I like hiking.' End of story. That's a missed opportunity. Also, saying something like 'I don't really have hobbies, I just work.' That makes you sound one-dimensional and honestly, a little boring. Interviewers want to see you have a life outside of work. Luna: I'd also add that you shouldn't lie. If you say you're an avid reader but you haven't picked up a book in years, it might come out in follow-up questions. Interviewers often dig deeper—they'll ask you to recommend a book or describe your last project. Lucas: That's a great point. And if you do get a follow-up, like 'so, what are you reading right now?' you need to have an answer ready. That's why it's smart to prepare a couple of real hobbies and actually engage with them before the interview. Luna: I also think it's worth mentioning that this question is often used as an icebreaker. The interviewer might be genuinely curious, but they're also looking to ease into the conversation. So your answer can set a positive tone for the rest of the interview. Lucas: Right. And a smile and some genuine energy go a long way. If you're excited about your hobby, that enthusiasm is contagious. It makes you more likable, and likability is a big part of hiring decisions. Luna: So, if you take one thing from this, what would it be? Lucas: Don't treat it as a small talk question. Treat it as an opportunity to show who you are beyond your resume. And that's something that's useful across many interview questions. And speaking of useful, if this conversation has been helpful for your interview prep, you can support the show so we can keep these episodes ad-free. It's buy me a coffee dot com slash fexingo. That's how we continue to bring you practical career advice. Luna: Yeah, and it really does help. We appreciate the support. But back to the topic—let's talk about a real-life example of a candidate who nailed this question. Lucas: Sure. I remember reading about a candidate who was interviewing at a top tech company. He mentioned he was a marathon runner, and the interviewer happened to be a triathlete. That common ground broke the ice, and the conversation shifted to a more relaxed tone. The candidate later said that connection made him feel more confident, and he ultimately got the offer. Luna: That's a great story. But what if you don't share a hobby with the interviewer? Is that a problem? Lucas: Not at all. The point isn't to be a mirror image. It's to show that you have depth and that you can talk about something other than work. Even if they don't share your hobby, they'll appreciate your passion. Luna: And what about the follow-up questions? Like, 'How do you make time for your hobbies?' Lucas: That's another chance to show organization and prioritization. You could say, 'I block out Saturday mornings for my photography, and I've learned to be disciplined about my schedule.' That subtly signals your time-management skills. Luna: I think we've given listeners a solid framework. Let's wrap up with a quick reminder that the hobbies question is a chance to show your personality, so don't waste it. Lucas: Exactly. And if you're in the middle of interview prep, remember that the goal is to be memorable for the right reasons. A thoughtful hobbies answer can do that. Thanks for tuning in, and we'll catch you next time on Interview Prep with Fexingo.