Interview Preparation

Mental Preparation

General Questions

Software Engineering Technical Questions

Programming Challenges

Phone Interview

  • Know the position you applied for

    • If you are applying to multiple jobs, make sure you're aware of the one you're interviewing for.

  • Look over the job description

    • Be able to speak how your skills fit each of the required items

  • Be prepared to talk about employment History

    • Be able to explain why you left each role you have had

    • If you have any gaps in your resume, prepare to explain why they are there and what you did with that time

  • Have a general idea of what you would be looking

    • Pay

    • Start Date

  • DO YOUR HOMEWORK ON THE COMPANY! Know who they are and what they do

    • Mission Statement

    • Company Values

  • Prepare 3-5 questions to ask during the interview. (see links in General Questions section)

Virtual Interview

  • Prepare your environment

    • Test the technology and internet connectivity ahead of time

    • Familiarize yourself with the selected virtual platform

    • Set the scene

    • Minimize distractions

  • Dress for the interview as if you were in-person

  • Monitor your body language

    • Hands in front

    • No Slouching

  • Prepare 3-5 questions to ask during the interview if time allows

Onsite Interview

  • Dress professionally

    • First impressions are important

  • Come prepared with a copy of your resume to share with each interviewer

  • Know where you are going and arrive at least 15 minutes early

  • Go light on perfumes/colognes

  • Turn your cell phone ringer off before you walk into the building

During the Interview

  • Speak clearly and take your time to express your thoughts

    • Don’t ramble

  • If you are nervous, it's ok!

    • Stay calm and breathe! They are all just people!

  • Have your notes and a copy of your resume in front of you to reference

  • Take notes as you go for any followup questions you may have

  • Know what it is about the company that drew you to the job!

  • Remember to ask each person for a business card if they have one.

    • Important for Thank you emails

    • Connecting on Linkedin

    • Helps with spelling names correctly

  • Be sure to stand up and shake each person’s hand as they enter to introduce yourself as they exit to thank them for their time (COVID permitting)

  • Thank the interviewer for their time and ask what next steps might be

After the Interview

  • Be sure to send a follow up thank you to the interviewer(s)

    • What you learned during your call that makes you feel good that you're a fit

    • What skills you realised you may be lacking and what you are willing to do to train for that skill

    • Show your excitement by stating that you are looking forward to hearing the next steps (call to action)

  • Be patient during the recruitment process but feel free to follow up after two weeks for a status update

  • If you are declined for a job be kind and thankful as this may be the moment that opens the door to another opportunity at the company

Additional Resources