If you have a collection, share how you started collecting and why you like doing it. What may seem mundane to you can be extremely interesting to others. “My father got me into collecting state quarters when I was young. It always brightens my day when I look through my change and find a new one. ” If you don’t have hobbies, there are still plenty of answers you can give. For example, if you have a daily routine that makes you feel good, you can answer with details about that.
If you’ve recently taken up a hobby, at a job interview you might briefly state how you got into it and why you like it. For example: “I’ve recently taken up pottery. Molding the clay into a new bowl helps me relax when I’m feeling overwhelmed. I’m looking forward to learning more about it. ” You can be more open-ended on a date to help keep the conversation flowing. In this context, your statement about pottery could sound like: “I just started learning pottery. I’ve made a couple bowls so far. Have you tried it?”
At a job interview, you could round out your answer by including what technical skills you use. If you love photography, you could talk about how you learn to take better photos or edit the pictures afterward. For example, you might say something like “I like to tweak the coloring of the photos I take so they have a more professional look. ” An interviewer may be impressed that you care to learn more about your craft. Similarly, your date may be curious about photography and ask more questions.
More extreme hobbies like rock climbing or bungee jumping can show that you’re not scared to take risks. It could also suggest that you are too risky. While this may be fine as-is on your date, you may have to choose your words more wisely when talking about this interest in an interview. [5] X Research source “When I’m on a rock wall, I’m constantly thinking about the best routes to take for the safest climb. Because of this, I am very good at analyzing risks and making decisions under pressure. ” A response along these lines will show the interviewer you are a risk taker, but also calculated and careful.
Whether you’re introverted or extroverted, your date may be curious about how you manage your social energy. Your answer could give them an idea of what people-centric activities you could do together. [7] X Research source You can also back up your organizational and leadership skills if you take a central role in your group as captain, treasurer, secretary, or otherwise. This can impress during an interview or on a date, since such skills are valuable in the workplace and attractive in the dating world. Activities like DJing or stand-up comedy are solo acts that require being able to read people. Hobbies like these help you work on your soft skills, which are highly desirable in many jobs. [8] X Research source “Every first Saturday of the month, I host a trivia night at the public library. The staff invited me because I’m very good at relating to the crowd and a familiar face in town. ”
If you can solve Rubik’s Cubes in less than a minute, you can talk about how you learned to do it or any methods you favor if the asker seems interested. “I like to do crossword puzzles when I have the time. Sometimes the clues can be vague, but I have a technique I always use…”
Taking the time to learn a new skill can also show your willingness to grow and your curiosity, which many find attractive. [11] X Research source If your project has an end, it will also show you can follow through on long-term goals. “My son and I are working on a car project together. Once we get it finished, we’re hoping to show it off at a car show later this year. ”
If you like to read to children at the library, you can talk about why that is. For example, you care about literacy and want to help the next generation get excited about reading. “On the weekends, I volunteer to walk dogs for the animal shelter nearby. I’ve always loved animals and want to make sure they get a lot of care while they search for their forever home. ”
You may like to play basketball at your local community center after work. Talk about why you like it, how it calms you, etc. “I like to take a walk first thing in the morning. Something about the quiet and the cool breeze helps prepare for the rest of the day. ”
If you went abroad for school, you can talk about why you chose where you went and how that added to your education. “Whenever I travel, I like to learn a bit of the local language. Because of that, I can say ‘Hello’ in 7 languages, and ‘Where is the bathroom?’ in 5. ”
If you spend a lot of time watching movies, talk about costume design, production, or other aspects most people don’t normally think about. “Because I was a band kid, I’m really interested in the soundtrack when I watch a movie. It’s cool to see how the composer tells the story using only instruments. ”
Your date may have buttons or a keychain related to a television show you both like. If you notice it, use that as a launching point when they ask this question. “I’m also a big fan of the 49ers. I try to go to their home games at least once a season. ” Remember to be honest with your answer. If the other person knows a lot about this topic, they can call your bluff pretty quickly.
You can explain your interest in a way that’s more palatable, as well. For example, if you like to do urban exploration with your friends, consider just mentioning exploring your city in general.
