Talking about how I learned how to dunk a basketball for an interview?

I was coming up with some key stories that demonstrate positive character traits about me and I was thinking about talking about how I learned how to dunk and trying to connect that to how I'd perform as an IB analyst - visualizing success, strict training, balancing strict physical training and honing form/skill, etc.

For reference, I'm 5'7 and Asian. I wanted to talk about something that would distinguish me from all the other aspiring 5'7 Asian IB analysts.

Would this be too "out there"?

 

I don't think it'd be too "out there" at all. Probably a refreshing break from the answers interviewers usually hear. And let's be honest, you will be very memorable. "Holy shit, remember that one dude who was 5'7" and could dunk?!"

 

I think this is a solid idea. If I were interviewing you, and you explained step-by-step, how you had "learned" to dunk (I imagine it took a fair amount of exercise, time, practice, commitment etc.), I think I would view that as a proxy for your work ethic in a professional setting. As others above have said, it would be a welcome departure from the cliche anecdotes you hear from candidates

 

If you are 5'7 kid that can dunk, I assume you atleast played ball in some organized capacity, whether it may be high school or club basketball. If there are positive anecdotes in those categories such as a high school championship or club championship, I think it can show you are team-oriented as well as disciplined.

If you told me about you dunking in an interview, I would think its cool but not much of a differentiator. However, if you told me you can dunk and led your team to some high-level team (organization) goal, I would be more impressed.

 

You could mention it as a side comment / joke if you can somehow snek that in but I wouldn't make that a talking point. The whole point of an interview is for them to see if you are competent and intelligent enough for the job, and you're better suited for success by tying that to relevant experience. Dunking is impressive but some people interviewing may not care and it could be a wasted talking point that could have been used for something better.

 

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