The interviewer asks you, “What are your outside interests?” Singing, dancing, or playing football won’t fetch you plus points from the panel.
TRAP: You want to be well-rounded, not a drone. But your potential employer would be even more turned off if he suspects that your heavy extracurricular load will interfere with your commitment to your work duties.
ACCEPTABLE ANSWER: Try to gauge how this company’s culture would look upon your favorite outside activities and be guided accordingly.
You can also use this question to shatter any stereotypes that could limit your chances. If you’re over 50, for example, describe your activities that demonstrate physical stamina.
Do Read: You have changed jobs too many times. How do you justify this in interviews?
If you’re young, mention an activity that connotes wisdom and institutional trust, such as serving on the board of a popular charity.
But above all, remember that your employer is hiring you for what you can do for him, not your family, yourself, or outside organizations, no matter how admirable those activities may be.
Read More: 3 Strategies to Manage Your Time and Maximize Your Results
The question may be paraphrased as “what are your hobbies” or “what are your interests”.
What if you were asked, “what are your outside interests?” Have you encountered this question before? What about other interview questions? We’d love to know in the comments.
