What are your hobbies?
In a Hurry? Quick Answer
Share genuine hobbies that make you interesting and relatable. If possible, connect them to skills relevant to the job (creativity, discipline, teamwork, problem-solving). Keep it professional—avoid controversial topics. This humanizes you and shows work-life balance.
The Recruiter's Mind
They're checking if you're well-rounded, interesting to work with, and have healthy outlets outside work. This question breaks the formal tone and lets them see you as a person. They're also subtly assessing cultural fit—will you get along with the team? Do you have interests that complement the company culture? It's a rapport-building moment.
Example Answers
Active/Athletic Hobby
"I'm really into rock climbing. I usually go to the climbing gym twice a week, and I try to get outdoors for real climbs monthly. What I love about it is the problem-solving aspect—each route is like a puzzle you solve with your body and mind. It's taught me to break down complex challenges into smaller steps and to stay calm under pressure, which honestly helps a lot in my work. Plus, it's a great way to clear my head after a long day."
Creative Hobby
"I'm passionate about photography, particularly landscape and street photography. I love capturing moments and telling stories through images. It's taught me to pay attention to details, consider different perspectives, and be patient—sometimes you wait hours for the perfect light. I've actually found that this creative outlet makes me more creative in my professional work too. I approach problems from different angles and I'm more attuned to visual design in my projects."
Learning/Skill-Building Hobby
"I've been learning to play guitar for the past two years. I'm not concert-ready yet, but I can play some of my favorite songs. What I appreciate about learning an instrument as an adult is that it's humbling—it reminds me what it's like to be a beginner and struggle with fundamentals. That empathy has actually made me a better teacher and mentor at work. It's also incredibly relaxing and gives me something completely different to focus on outside of work."
Red Flags to Avoid
- Saying "I don't really have hobbies" or "Just watching TV"
- Controversial hobbies: extreme politics, hunting (unless you know their culture), gambling
- Hobbies that might raise scheduling concerns: "I travel abroad every other week"
- Making it all about work: "I like reading business books and coding"
- Excessive partying or drinking-centered activities
- Being too detailed or passionate to the point it seems like a distraction from work
Pro Tips for Maximum Impact
- Be authentic: Share hobbies you genuinely enjoy, not what you think they want to hear.
- Show depth: Pick 1-2 hobbies and explain why you enjoy them, rather than listing many superficially.
- Connect to skills: Subtly link your hobbies to valuable workplace qualities when natural.
- Demonstrate balance: Show you have a life outside work without seeming uncommitted.
- Make yourself memorable: Unique hobbies make you stand out and give interviewers something to remember.
- Read the room: Match energy to the interviewer—if they're formal, keep it brief; if conversational, elaborate.