Develop Yourself #261 - I Used to Suck at Coding Interviews. Then I Started Doing These 4 Things
Jul 31, 2025
A former developer shares their harrowing experience of panic during a senior role interview. They reveal four transformative strategies that turned their interview performance around, boosting their salary fourfold. The discussion emphasizes the importance of preparing both technically and behaviorally, and the value of storytelling in interviews. Techniques for managing interview anxiety, like self-recording, are highlighted to help candidates stay calm under pressure. Ultimately, it's about overcoming embarrassment and building confidence to succeed.
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Panic Attack During Interview
- Brian had a panic attack during a senior developer interview despite 12 years of experience.
- He struggled so much he asked to restart the call, thinking he had failed badly.
Realistic Interview Expectations
- Most developers won't work at big tech firms using whiteboard interviews.
- Many interviews focus more on fit and story, not just coding skills.
Early Interview Struggles
- Early in his career, Brian failed to answer JavaScript concept questions and ended a Facebook phone screen early.
- Interviewers were patient but his lack of preparation caused fumbling and embarrassment.