Hobbies And Interests: Answering Interview Inquiries In English

When it comes to job interviews, hobbies and interests can make or break your chances of getting the job. Many employers ask about hobbies and interests to get a better sense of your personality, work ethic, and how you spend your free time. In this article, we’ll discuss how to answer interview inquiries about hobbies and interests in English.

Why do employers ask about hobbies and interests?

Before we dive into how to answer these questions, let’s first understand why employers ask them. Here are a few reasons:

To get a sense of your personality and character traits
To see if you have any relevant skills or experiences that could be useful in the job
To assess your work-life balance and potential for burnout
To see if you’ll be a good cultural fit for the company

How to answer interview questions about hobbies and interests

1. Be honest

It’s important to be truthful when answering these types of questions. Don’t make up hobbies or interests just to impress the interviewer. If you’re not passionate about something, it will show in your answers.

2. Highlight your strengths

Think about how your hobbies and interests can showcase your strengths and skills. For example, if you enjoy hiking, you could mention that it shows your determination and perseverance.

3. Relate your hobbies to the job

If possible, try to connect your hobbies and interests to the job you’re applying for. For example, if you’re applying for a marketing position, you could mention that you enjoy photography and have experience with Photoshop.

4. Be specific

Don’t just say that you enjoy reading or watching movies. Be specific about the genres or types of books/movies you like. This will give the interviewer a better sense of your personality.

5. Avoid controversial topics

Avoid discussing hobbies or interests that could be controversial or offensive. This includes anything related to politics, religion, or personal beliefs.

6. Show enthusiasm

When discussing your hobbies and interests, make sure to show enthusiasm and passion. This will demonstrate that you’re a well-rounded individual with a positive attitude.

7. Practice beforehand

It’s a good idea to practice talking about your hobbies and interests before the interview. This will help you feel more confident and articulate when answering the questions.

FAQs

Q: What if I don’t have any hobbies or interests?

A: Everyone has something they enjoy doing, even if it’s just watching Netflix or going for a walk. Think about what you like to do in your free time and how it can showcase your personality or skills.

Q: What if my hobbies and interests aren’t relevant to the job?

A: That’s okay! The interviewer just wants to get to know you better. Use this as an opportunity to showcase your personality and demonstrate that you’re a well-rounded individual.

Q: Can I lie about my hobbies and interests?

A: No, it’s important to be truthful. If the employer finds out that you lied, it could damage your credibility and harm your chances of getting the job.

Q: Should I mention my hobbies and interests on my resume?

A: It’s not necessary to include hobbies and interests on your resume, but you can if you want to. Just make sure they’re relevant and showcase your strengths.

Q: What if I’m nervous about discussing my hobbies and interests?

A: It’s normal to feel nervous, but remember that the interviewer wants to get to know you better. Take a deep breath and be yourself.

Conclusion

Answering interview questions about hobbies and interests can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll be able to showcase your personality and make a great impression on the interviewer. Remember to be honest, highlight your strengths, and show enthusiasm. Good luck!