Why do recruiters ask about my hobbies?

Very often, in the process of job search, we are faced with the question of hobbies. More specifically, recruiters and hiring managers ask about hobbies at job interviews. After all, it is supposed to be about work, skills, and experiences…and we hear this question time and time again. Why is that so?

Especially after we’ve told you not to include your hobbies in your CV for years, what’s it all about?

It’s ok to be confused, we’ll try to shed some light on the topic.

Hobbies tell you a lot about a person

First, let’s start at the beginning.

Even though it does not seem that way, when you find out about a person’s hobby, it actually tells you a lot about them. By asking that one simple question, the recruiter learns about who you are as a person, what your inclinations are, how you fit into the company culture, what your interests are outside work, and how you interact with others.

That is precisely why recruiters ask about these things at some stage of the interview process. Of course, their interpretation of your hobbies can be subjective so it is up to you to present them properly.

What to say?

Truth be told, there is no right or wrong answer to this question. But, just so you know, they will analyze your response afterward. It is highly possible that they will compare your hobbies to the requirements for the role.

Do not take this as something negative. On the contrary, it is very positive! This means that you can adjust your answer so it’s aligned with the role, at least to some degree.

Chances are, you actually do have hobbies that somewhat correspond to the job position you are interviewing for.

For example, if you are applying for a position of copywriter and in your free time you shoot videos, write poems, and take photographs – mention those! Why is this good to mention? Because it shows, you are creative and in touch with your emotions.

If you are into bungee-jumping or cross-racing, it doesn’t really matter if you mention those because it is not related to the position you’re applying for. These activities tell people you like excitement and challenges. Even though those are positive things, it’s not something we’d associate with a copywriter. However, mentioning those in an interview wouldn’t hurt.

Preparation is everything

Knowing what to mention and what to skip comes with experience and research. You do need to learn about the company and while doing so, you will develop a pretty good sense about what they’re like. Due to that, you will not be mentioning hobbies that can’t help you in landing the job. Whatever you find, use it to formulate a reply to the hobbies and interests question.

So, next time a recruiter asks you about your hobbies, remember this article and you will be just fine!

If you need help with interview prep, do let us know. You can check out our career coaching services and get in touch. We also have a lot of useful and interesting blog posts about interviews and job search in general, so do browse our Blog.

If you’re faced with no success at getting job interviews, maybe you should send in your CV for a free review. If you think you should rewrite your CV, we have just the thing for you – our very own guide to CV writing in a practical e-book and paperback version. Order yours now here and get replies to job applications.

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