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Summary.
“What do you like to do after work?” Asking this question may seem frivolous, but underneath its soft exterior, you’ll find genuine answers that will help you better understand your potential future coworkers, learn about the organization’s culture, and determine how you’ll fit into the bigger picture. Here are three valuable insights this question will help you gather.- Is the job really 9-5? Most jobs claim to follow the traditional format, but if your interviewer hesitates or is vague about their post-work activities, this may be a red flag. For example, if you learn that your interviewer regularly arrives home at 8 pm, or that deadlines keep them in the office late, the company probably lacks work-life balance. On the other hand, specifics about after-work activities reveal the opposite and can give you a glimpse into the interests of your potential future coworkers.
- Is everyone burned out? When asking your interviewer what they like to do outside of work, look for signs of exhaustion, languishing, or contempt in their answer. Of course, people relax in different ways, but a lack of excitement around activities most people would find fun or relaxing is a trademark sign of burnout.
- Do the employees like each other? The after-work question is great for sussing out whether your potential colleagues get along personally. Does your interviewer mention office parties and get-togethers? Or does it feel like everyone comes in for the paycheck and then goes home? While you aren’t required to be friendly with all your coworkers, it’s helpful to have allies who you can rely on for everyday questions.
Why do you like working here?