How to Mention Outside Interests in Interviews

It's a good idea to mention one or two of your outside interests during interviews.

Like mentioning outside interests while networking, it can be used to build rapport and respect. Having outside interests shows you are well rounded and well connected. Outside interests help flesh you out to hiring managers.

Think of it this way: in high school, academic high-achievers vie against each other to get into prestigious colleges and universities (e.g. Harvard, Yale, Princeton, etc.). From the universities' standpoint, however, high school high-achievers are a dime a dozen. In order for the students to stand out, they have to show there's more to them than just their grades. As a result, many kids volunteer or perform community service, join clubs and participate in sports. These activities show the colleges and universities how well rounded they are - and demonstrates passion.

In the adult world - where we look for work - employers also want to see passion and well rounded personalities. Just as colleges want high quality applicants that fit their culture, so too do employers.

The trick is knowing how to reveal your outside interests when interviewing. Done right, you'll be in contention for the gig. Do it incorrectly and you'll be seen as a braggart. The best way, then, to highlight your outside interests in interviews is casually statements like these:

"I've been an active member for years." This statement shows commitment. It also gives the impression that you have a solid network and a vibrant life outside of work. In some cases, you might talk about people you know in common. If you know some of the same people, the hiring manager will likely talk to them about you. This works to your advantage. Do your mutual contacts a favor, though, and give them a heads up that they may be contacted.

"It helps satisfy my competitive streak." Sports and other competitive outside interests help keep you mentally and physically sharp, which employers love. But by casually mentioning your competitive streak, you demonstrate your need to succeed. Employers love that even more. After all, who wouldn't want to hire someone who's success-minded?

"It's a way to give back. Besides - it's a lot of fun." When you mention your desire to "give back," you're essentially saying that you're doing well for yourself. Telling the hiring manager that you enjoy it? That indicates you'd probably a pretty happy employee.

IN A NUTSHELL: It's a good idea to casually mention one or two outside interests during interviews.