Technical Interview Preparation
This playbook provides steps for IT professionals to prepare for technical interviews, focusing on aspects like coding challenges and problem-solving questions.
Step 1: Research
Conduct thorough research about the hiring company, the role you are applying for, and the technical skills required. Understand the company's values, culture, and products/services.
Step 2: Review Basics
Revisit the fundamentals of your technical expertise. Ensure you are proficient with core concepts, languages, and frameworks relevant to the position.
Step 3: Practice Coding
Regularly solve coding problems on platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, or CodeSignal. Focus on a variety of problem types and increase difficulty gradually.
Step 4: Mock Interviews
Schedule mock interviews with peers or use platforms like Pramp to simulate a real interview environment. Review feedback and refine your approach.
Step 5: System Design
Learn about system design principles. Study common architectures and practice designing systems for hypothetical problems.
Step 6: Review Work
Prepare to discuss your past projects and work experience. Be ready to explain your decision-making process, challenges faced, and outcomes achieved.
Step 7: Soft Skills
Work on your communication skills, especially explaining complex technical concepts succinctly. Practice behavioral interview questions to articulate your soft skills.
Step 8: Logistics
Confirm the interview format (in-person, phone, video), date, and time. Ensure you have all necessary technical equipment and a quiet space for the interview.
Step 9: Pre-Interview Review
The day before the interview, do a quick review of notes, especially on topics you feel less confident about. Relax and get a good night's sleep.
General Notes
Portfolio
Have an up-to-date portfolio ready to showcase your best work if asked. This could be a GitHub repository, a personal website, or a document detailing your contributions.
Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer about the role, team, and company to show your genuine interest and to determine if the position is the right fit for you.
Attire
Plan out your interview attire ahead of the interview day. It should be professional and appropriate for the company culture.