CIA Mock Interview
Master 35 CIA interview questions covering security clearances, analytical thinking, and behavioral assessments.
Question 28 of 35
What do you like to do in your free time?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
What to Avoid
Example Answer
Example Answer 2
Community Answers
Krista Wenz has been on thousands of interview panels hiring EMS professionals and firefighters for public and private agencies.
Working for the CIA can be pretty stressful and involve long hours away from your family and home. The interviewer asks what you like to do in your free time to get a glimpse into your personality and see if you have ways to decompress from work and everyday life stressors. It is best to describe activities or hobbies you enjoy that are healthy for the mind and body, showing the interviewer that you have found a good work/life balance.
Krista Wenz has been on thousands of interview panels hiring EMS professionals and firefighters for public and private agencies.
You want to avoid answering that you never have free time because you work so much. While being a workaholic may seem like a good attribute, if you do not allow yourself some free time to destress, you may burn out quite quickly and become a less productive employee. The interviewer wants to see that you have found an acceptable work/life balance.
Krista Wenz has been on thousands of interview panels hiring EMS professionals and firefighters for public and private agencies.
"In my current job, I work 50 plus hours per week and do not have much free time. When I have a day off, I like to spend quality time with my husband and two children. We enjoy nature and love hiking, mountain bike rides, and canoeing on a lake close to our house. I find being in the fresh air with my family keeps me rejuvenated and ready to tackle another 50 hour week."
Krista Wenz has been on thousands of interview panels hiring EMS professionals and firefighters for public and private agencies.
"In my free time, I enjoy working out, watching my niece's soccer games, and having barbecues with my extended family. I also enjoy playing the guitar and will usually play music for my family when we get together."
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