Are you a cat or dog person? What’s your favorite color? What kind of tree personifies you? What do you like to do in your spare time? We’ve all faced these questions in interviews, and some of us might have rolled our eyes thinking, “How does my love for cats determine my job prowess?” Well, surprise, surprise—it matters more than you think. These seemingly random queries serve a purpose beyond small talk. When a company hires you, they’re not just getting a walking skill set; they’re getting a whole person-shaped package deal. So yeah, it is our business to ask these questions.
“What do you do in your spare time?” It’s not just an attempt to pry into your personal life; it’s a window into your soul, or at least your work style. If your answer involves mastering the art of dodgeball on weekends, you’re showcasing a healthy competitive edge. Companies want to know if you’re up for a challenge, and what better way to gauge that than through your recreational choices.
If your after-hours activities involve a canvas and paintbrush or a camera and lens, congratulations, you’re a creative spirit. Employers are secretly thrilled to have someone who can bring a touch of artistic flair to their problem-solving boardroom sessions. It’s like having a brainstorming session with Picasso, minus the abstract metaphors.
Is the company of family and friends during your downtime your go to? You’re broadcasting a dedication to relationships. You’re the team player, the one who knows the importance of fostering connections, both personally and professionally. It’s not just about clocking in and out; it’s about building lasting bonds. And isn’t that what every company dreams of—a harmonious team where colleagues are practically family?
But what if your spare time is a solo escapade filled with Netflix marathons and social media scrolling? Fear not, you’re not alone in this. Your affinity for ‘me time’ doesn’t make you anti-social; it makes you someone who values solitude. You’re the employee who can tackle tasks independently, thriving in the quiet hum of your own productivity. Just make sure your binge-watching doesn’t interfere with your deadlines, or maybe spin it as “researching the latest in storytelling techniques.”
For those of you spending your precious free hours reading articles that I write, well, you’re in good company. It means you’re a seeker of truth, a knowledge connoisseur. You’re the employee who doesn’t just stop at the surface; you delve into the depths of information, always hungry for more. Your dedication to expanding your understanding of the world is commendable, and who knows, your thirst for knowledge might just be the secret sauce your potential employer didn’t know they needed.
So, the next time you find yourself facing these seemingly trivial questions in an interview, embrace them. Your answers, no matter how quirky or conventional, unveil layers of your personality that a resume can’t capture. So, let your answers reflect the awesome, multifaceted individual that you are.