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How should I prepare for a technical interview?

What are the best ways to prepare for a technical interview? What kinds of problems will they ask?

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Gabriel’s Answer

Hi, Oliver. This is a great question!

The best way to prepare is to learn as much as you can about the company that you're interviewing with. Understand what it is they do, what value they bring to their customers, and then cater your questions and arounds around that.

There are great online forums that exist that can provide in-depth knowledge of specific technologies. Get educated about what the technology actually does along with the benefits it provides. Then, put together a plan (just in case you're asked) of how you intend to integrate yourself within that company. Hiring managers always like that. :-)

Last - be prepared with a list of questions that speak directly to what the company does and the impact of their services.

I hope this helps and good luck!
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Patrick’s Answer

Oliver, first thanks for your question. I hope my answer is helpful in preparing you for your interview. To begin with, it's vital for you to understand the basics, such as data structures and algorithms. You need to also focus on critical thinking and problem solving.

1. It's crucial for you to investigate the company's tech stack to ensure your preparation aligns with their requirements.

2. Regular engagement in coding exercises on platforms like LeetCode and participation in mock interviews will bolster your problem-solving abilities and communication skills.

3. Being prepared for behavioral questions that evaluate teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving strategies is key.

Furthermore, Oliver, it's recommended that you revisit your previous work, stay abreast of the latest industry trends, and familiarize yourself with a range of technical subjects including data structures, algorithms, system design, and coding exercises. This will significantly boost your chances of acing the interview.
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Dan’s Answer

Be sure to do research on the company and the areas where you would like to work. Check the competitors as well so you are well versed on the industry. You may also want to do research on Linkdin to try to learn more about who you are meeting with where they worked etc..
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laura’s Answer

Get ready to explain your problem-solving methods and how you resolved a challenge. Discuss the success of your actions, and if the outcome wasn't positive, share what you would do differently for a better result. This will showcase your ability to solve problems and your resourcefulness.
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Lucia’s Answer

Thanks for the question- Great question!!!

I recommend that before the interview, you prepare by:
1- Reading about the company background, company core values, annual income, main customers and suppliers and future plans of the company
2- Set your list of reasons of why you would like to work in such company and why the company should choose you.
3- Have a summary of your profile and background experience; think about your opportunity areas, the values that represent you; short-term & medium-term goals and how you can continue with your professional growing and comply company´s goals.
4- Always be you
5- Be respectful & kind
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John’s Answer

Hi Oliver,

Great question. 1st research! Research the companie’s socials, Linked-In etc. 2nd research job specific questions. 3rd use AI. Ask ChatGPT for answers for the specific field you are applying for. 4th and last, be prepared to articulate why you, what’s your biggest strengths and weaknesses. Good luck!
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Shea’s Answer

Oliver -
I recommend knowing what language or area the job is related to. Look for the specific technical skills that are required for the role. For example, let's say the job is to utilize JavaScript. You should then refresh yourself with JavaScript and prepare with practice tests that are available online. Understand the tech stack and practices used within the company.

Overall pointers:
- Review Core Concepts: Brush up on fundamental concepts related to the specific role (e.g., data structures, algorithms, databases, system design).
Practice coding exercises on platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, or CodeSignal.
- Explore Previous Interview Questions: Research and practice questions that are commonly asked in technical interviews for similar roles.
- Hands-On Coding Practice: Write code regularly to strengthen your coding skills.
- Mock Interviews: Conduct mock interviews with friends, and colleagues, or use online platforms that offer interview simulations. Practice explaining your thought process clearly and concisely.
- Time Management: Practice managing your time effectively during coding exercises. Break down problems, prioritize tasks, and allocate time wisely.
- Stay Calm Under Pressure: Practice staying calm and focused during stressful situations.
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Eric’s Answer

It's crucial that you tailor your approach to the specific company. However, a universal tip is to ready yourself for behavioral questions. To effectively answer these, you should familiarize yourself with the BAR and STAR methods. This will help you structure your responses in a clear and compelling way.
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Karin’s Answer

Hi Oliver,

Technical interviews are designed to test your practical knowledge of e.g. programming languages or whatever is required for the job (industry specific).

So, if the job requires knowledge of python, SQL and R, and you claim in your application that you know those, they might give you tasks to test your proficiency.

Google a bit and you'll find lists of typical interview tasks to practice a bit. That's a bit nerve-wrecking, but the good news is: you got an interview! That means you are competitive, and if you get one interview, you'll get more.

Good luck!

KP
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Shane’s Answer

Get ready for your technical interview by brushing up on basic principles, tackling coding challenges on sites such as LeetCode, and doing practice interviews. Get to know well-known data structures, algorithms, and system design principles. Also, be prepared to chat about your previous experiences and projects, and keep up-to-date with the latest trends and tech in the industry.
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Dawson’s Answer

Hi Oliver - great question! A technical interview can vary quite a bit depending on the specific focus of the interview. The first place to start is to clearly understand what type of challenge or goal the company is trying to achieve with this specific role that they're technically interviewing you for. Best place to look into this is the specific job listing itself. Companies should specifically outline what type of skills/qualities they're looking for and this will help you prepare a lot. Another route that I would suggest is to reach out to someone at the company (specifically in the same department of the role that you're applying for). If you can reach out and suggest a coffee chat, you can use that time to get to know the person, as well as understand what the company might be looking for in the role you're applying for. Once you're able to narrow down the focus to the specific skills that they're looking for, there's always the good o'l practice questions/challenges/projects/etc. that can be found online on numerous interview prep services. Hope this helps!
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Russ’s Answer

It depends on the job you're looking for. Maybe even ask them on what they expect? Perhaps that's an easier approach.
Thank you comment icon Hi Russ! Can you Oliver some additional guidance such as where he can find information on technical interviews or some tips on preparation? Sharyn Grose, Admin
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Oliver,

Preparing for a Technical Interview

Preparing for a technical interview requires a strategic approach that combines understanding the job requirements, reviewing and practicing coding problems, and understanding the company culture. The best ways to prepare for a technical interview include:

Research the Job Requirements: Begin by researching the job description to understand the specific skills and technologies required for the role. This will help you identify the key areas you need to focus on during your preparation.

Review and Practice Coding Problems: One of the most effective ways to prepare for a technical interview is to practice coding problems. Start by solving problems from popular coding platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, and CodeSignal. Focus on problems related to the technologies mentioned in the job description.

Understand Common Data Structures and Algorithms: Familiarize yourself with common data structures and algorithms such as arrays, linked lists, stacks, queues, trees, graphs, and various sorting and searching algorithms. This knowledge will help you tackle a wide range of problems during the interview.

Work on System Design Problems: Technical interviews often involve system design questions. Familiarize yourself with common system design patterns and practice solving system design problems.

Brush Up on Software Development Best Practices: Be prepared to discuss software development best practices, such as version control, testing, and code reviews.

Review Behavioral and Communication Skills: Technical interviews also involve questions about your experience, problem-solving approach, and communication skills. Practice answering behavioral questions and think about how you would approach solving a problem in a team setting.

Research the Company Culture: Understand the company culture and values to ensure that your answers and approach align with their expectations.

Practice Mock Interviews: Schedule mock interviews with friends, colleagues, or even professional coaches to get feedback on your performance and improve your interview skills.

Stay Updated with Industry Trends: Stay informed about the latest trends and developments in your field to showcase your knowledge and passion for the industry.

Be Confident and Relaxed: Maintain a positive attitude and be confident in your abilities. Take deep breaths and visualize yourself successfully completing the interview to reduce stress and anxiety.

By following these best practices, you’ll be well-prepared for a technical interview and increase your chances of success.

Authoritative Reference Titles

Cracking the Coding Interview by Gayle Laakmann McDowell - This book provides valuable insights into the interview process and offers a wealth of coding problems and solutions.

Programming Interviews Exposed by Todd P. Lammle - This book offers a comprehensive guide to technical interviews, including system design questions and behavioral interviews.

Interviewing.io - This platform provides a unique opportunity to practice technical interviews with experienced interviewers, helping you improve your problem-solving skills and communication during the interview process.

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Jasmine’s Answer

Answer provided by Cloudera's New Hire Cohort:
We should do research about the technologies the company is using.

Suggested Next Steps:
If coding, practice the coding language.
Review the common answers/questions about the role you are applying for.
Memorize a story that illustrates better the skills you are applying for.
Practice your answers.
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Luna’s Answer

Hi Oliver,

I totally understand where you are coming from and it's a great question! To be successful in a technical interview, there're certain steps you could take to improve your success rate:

1. Research about the company and utilise the job Ad: try to find some information (glassdoor and linkedin) about the company's tech stack, the job ad normally also have requirements of the skills, for example, the company is looking for a Java developer with AWS exposure.

2. Ask questions prior to the technical interview: if you have a recruiter screening call before the technical interview, it is a great opportunity for you to ask the recruiter some information about the format and questions related to your technical interview.

3. Connect with the company's current employee: you can ask generic questions such as the interview format and the process, if the person thinks you are a good fit you might even get a referral!

Generally speaking, companies will ask computer science fundamental questions or ask you to solve a problem using a specific language, if you are applying for a senior role, system design usually forms part of the technical interview. But it really depends on the company and the role!

Good luck with your interview and hope you find the advice useful :)
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Stephanie’s Answer

Hello Oliver, take a close look at the job or internship advertisement to pinpoint the skills they're seeking. Then, go over your resume again to find any areas where you can emphasize your abilities and experiences that match these skills. Be ready to discuss these experiences, particularly the thinking and actions you took to achieve your objectives. Conclude by explaining what happened when you reached that goal - for instance, "I created XYZ by spotting the problem, considering possible solutions, selecting the best one, designing it, implementing it, and so on. As a result, I managed to generate a revenue of $XXXXX, or boost the user count by XX%, etc." If a case study is included in the technical interview, you can apply this same method of explaining your thought process and the reasons behind your actions.
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Christian’s Answer

Hi Oliver,

Aside from the other very good tips already mentioned, I'll tell you something I always look for when I ask technical questions of candidates. I typically pick questions that do not just have clear cut answers, because those often just come down to knowledge retention/ability to access that knowledge under pressure. I want the candidate to talk me through what they problem solving process looks like. I want to understand how they think, what options they are considering, whether they are open to disclosing they might not be sure about something, but here is what they would perhaps try or what has worked for them in the past. Small gaps of knowledge can always be filled, but critical thinking and problem solving are the real skills that typically set you apart.

So if you don't know the answer to a question, start talking about your approach to the problem, what you are thinking, be honest that maybe something has you stumped, but here is where you would start. Often times that can still be a great answer and perhaps maybe is what the interviewer is really looking for.

Good luck on your interviews!
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