How to answer “Tell me a fun fact about yourself”

The moment arrives in many job interviews. You’ve detailed your experience, explained your software knowledge, and outlined why you’re the perfect fit. Then, the hiring manager leans back and asks, “So, tell me a fun fact about yourself.” This seemingly simple request can feel like a sudden spotlight, causing even the most prepared candidates to stumble. But it doesn't have to be a source of stress.

This question is less about the fact itself and more about you as a person. It’s an ice-breaker tool used to see your personality and assess your ability to think on your feet. Importantly, the fun fact you choose can reflect your personal brand - showcasing qualities, interests, or values that set you apart.

A good answer can help you build rapport and make a lasting impression, moving you one step closer to your dream job.

Why do hiring managers ask this?

This interview question might feel out of place in a professional setting, but it provides valuable insights for the hiring manager. It’s a way to see beyond your CV and understand who you are in real life. They want to see how you interact in a less formal moment, which can indicate how you might fit into the company culture and engage in team-building activities.

It’s also a test of your communication skills and creativity. A well-chosen fun fact can be a great conversation starter, leading to deeper discussions. It’s a chance to show a glimpse of your personal life that complements your professional life.

Tips for choosing the best fun facts about yourself

The goal is to share a memorable and positive personal anecdote. Your answer should be brief, interesting, and appropriate for professional settings.

Here are some tips:

Keep it relevant (if possible): If your unique hobby relates to the job, that’s a huge plus. For instance, if you're a graphic designer and you design custom storybooks for your nieces in your spare time, that’s a perfect way to demonstrate how passionate you are about your craft.
Showcase a skill: Do you speak other languages or play musical instruments? Mentioning a unique skill shows dedication and a capacity for learning, both excellent traits for any new job.
Highlight your personality: Talk about a unique travel experience , a passion for self-improvement, or a quirky collection. This helps the interviewer see you as a well-rounded person.
Be authentic: Don’t make something up. Authenticity is key to building connections. Sharing a genuine fact, even a small one, is always better than a fabricated tale.

Examples of fun facts

Here are some examples of fun facts about yourself to help you prepare for your interview:

"A personal fun fact is that I once won a regional baking competition with my grandmother's lemon drizzle cake recipe. It’s now my most prized possession."
"I'm currently learning how to code my own video game in my free time. It’s a unique challenge that combines creativity and problem-solving."
"Something interesting about me is that I volunteered at an animal shelter for five years and helped rehome over 100 dogs."
“I have a hidden talent for remembering movie trivia. My favourite movie is The Dark Knight, and I can name every actor who’s played Batman — it’s a random skill, but great for breaking the ice in team trivia nights.”

Fun fact topic ideas

Check out the topics below to spark ideas and prompt more meaningful conversations with your interviewer:

A unique or unusual hobby you enjoy
The most adventurous thing you’ve ever done
A historical figure you admire and why
A place you’ve travelled to that left a lasting impression
Your favourite childhood memory
An unexpected skill or talent you have
A personal accomplishment you’re particularly proud of
A favourite book or author and why you love it
The strangest food you’ve ever tried and whether you liked it
A goal or dream you’re currently working towards
A quirky habit or tradition you have
The most interesting fact you’ve learned recently
An object or item that has sentimental value to you
A celebrity or public figure you’d love to meet and why
Your favourite way to unwind after a long day
The story behind your favourite song or musician
A cause or organisation you’re passionate about supporting
A surprising job or role you once held
You dream vacation and why
A memorable encounter with wildlife or nature
Your favourite food or go-to recipe
A funny story about your trying a new hobby

What to avoid when answering

Just as a good answer can help you, a poor one can hinder your chances. When you share fun facts, it’s crucial to know what to steer clear of. Here are some things to avoid for this part of your job interview.

"I don't have one": This response can make you seem unprepared or uninteresting. Always have something ready, even if it’s simple.
Controversial or TMI topics: Avoid politics, religion, or overly personal stories. Your biggest fear might be too intense for this context. The aim is to build rapport, not create discomfort.
Anything unprofessional: A story about a wild party or an illegal activity is an immediate red flag. Remember, this is still a professional environment, even if the question is casual.
Unrelated career ambitions: Don't say your fun fact is that you're planning a completely different career path. You want to show you're committed to the opportunity in front of you.

This question is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your human skills and connect with the interviewer. It’s not just for job interviews. Having a few fun facts in your back pocket is also great for networking events or even during casual conversations in the office.