Do you have any other creative pursuits or hobbies outside of work?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
What You Need to Know
How to Answer
Experienced Example

Regardless of whether you've added some personal skills or hobbies to the bottom of your resume, your interviewer is offering you an opportunity now to showcase your personality and character by sharing other creative interests. How you answer will inform them of whether you're a well-rounded individual with other interests, or if you're a one-dimensional career-focused professional. Those who have interests outside of their profession are more emotionally balanced, have a stronger work-life balance, a greater likelihood of career satisfaction, and are less likely to burn out on the job. Therefore, your answer provides insights into how balanced of a professional you are.

During your interview panels, you will be asked about your experience and interests, your thoughts about the position or positions you are being considered for, and what you think of The Times. This is according to one of the New York Times careers blogs, from The NYT Open Team, which is a team of New York Times employees writing about workplace culture. This question is also a balancing act. On one hand, they're looking for assurances you'll be able to build relationships with your new teams while embodying their culture, mission, and values. On the other hand, how effectively you balance your personal life and work life often relies on being able to leave your work behind, and engage in outside activities and interests aside from what's happening in the workplace.

Enriching your personal life with other interests that you are passionate about can be a powerful tool for relieving stress and improving your quality of life. Not only will it boost your well-being, but it can fuel your drive and ambition, keeping burnout at bay, and positioning you as an emotionally intelligent and sustainable employee. The aim of your answer should be to align yourself with their workplace culture, being like-minded, and relatable to the rest of their teams. Share hobbies and interests that showcase your personality and make you relatable. Paint a vibrant picture of who you are beyond the picture you've painted of yourself as a professional. If this sparks a meaningful connection it will help make you an even more memorable candidate.

"Well, one of my daily hobbies, which is something I do every day when I wake up in the morning while having my coffee, is to sharpen my mind by working on the New York Times crossword puzzle. I'm addicted to it. I truly love wordplay, so any word puzzle comes my way, and I'm all over it. I also write poetry. In the evenings, I like to read a romance novel or watch something on the television. On the weekends, I like to get out my pent-up energy by dancing, attending local art events, going to the theater, or painting. Cooking is an art form I am passionate about as well."