Step-by-Step Strategies to Ace Your Next Technical Interview

A technical interview is often different from a conventional interview in that the process is rigorous, complex, and specialized. What’s more, interviewers often test you for specific skills including problem-solving and coding (in addition to personality tests). However, with the right planning and preparation, technical interviews no longer have to be nerve-wracking or stressful.

Remember to be engaging and positive, so the interviewer can get a good sense of who you are and what you can do. Technical interviews – unlike standard interviews – often involve tests, challenges, and assignments.

Nail your next technical interview with these important tips and tricks:

1. Communicate Clearly and Be Articulate

Even if you’re brilliant at your job, you must be able to communicate this clearly to an interviewer(s). Whether on the phone or in person, use simple language while showcasing your expertise to non-technical interviewers. Highlight past accomplishments along with facts and figures to explain your competencies.

2. Be Honest About Your Expertise

If you do not know how to solve a problem, admit it; then explain how you would approach the issue. Avoid guessing the answer. If you do solve the problem, you may wish to solve it yet again by using an alternate method to demonstrate your expertise.

3. Show Your Willingness to Be a Team Player

When discussing a problem, always describe your approach in the context of the larger picture. Show you are interested in developing solutions in the interests of the team. Demonstrating support and empathy will show your initiative in working as a team player.

4. Be Enthusiastic and Confident

Let your personality show in the interview process! Be positive and enthusiastic in addition to showing your technical aptitude. Interviewers prefer engaging with candidates who are confident and at ease.

5. Practice Solving Coding Challenges

Use online resources – like HackerRank or CodeFights – to practice solving coding problems. Many companies prefer candidates to write out codes on a whiteboard to test their technical skill levels. Be sure to brush up on your fundamentals before the interview.

6. Offer the Right Mix of Technical and Soft Skills

Interviewing – technical or otherwise – is often stressful and can make or break your job prospects. Preparing yourself in advance helps you feel more confident and in control of your technical abilities. Discuss your interests and opinions and ask questions on the topic at hand to build a rapport with your interviewers. To ace your interview, describe your areas of expertise, summarize your achievements, and explain how you can contribute to company goals.

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