#145 - Mastering the Technical Interview: Lessons from My Worst Interview and Beyond
Jun 17, 2024
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Explore lessons learned from the worst tech interview at Google, how to conquer technical interviews post-bootcamp, the importance of data structures and algorithms for career growth, and tips on excelling in technical interviews to accelerate your tech career and increase your earnings.
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Quick takeaways
Prepare for a variety of tech interviews beyond top companies for career success.
Practice using fundamental coding concepts like 'reduce' method and React JS scenarios for problem-solving skills.
Deep dives
Mastering Interview Skills as a Software Developer
Being proficient in interviewing is crucial for success in a software development career. While top companies like Google and Facebook have standardized and challenging interviews, the majority of tech companies require different skills for success. The speaker, who has vast experience in tech interviews, emphasizes the need to focus on a broader range of companies, not just the top 1%. This includes honing skills that align with the reality of the job market, rather than solely preparing for elite company interviews.
Preparing for Coding Challenges and React JS Questions
One of the common aspects of coding interviews revolves around working with objects and arrays, illustrating the importance of such fundamental concepts for JavaScript developers. Understanding and applying techniques like the 'reduce' method can enhance problem-solving abilities. Additionally, React JS questions, particularly those involving component interactions such as toggling completion status, are prevalent. Practicing these scenarios, especially through APIs like T-Y-P-I-C-O-D-E .com, can aid in navigating typical coding challenges.
Nail Behavioral Questions and Company Culture Fit
Behavioral questions play a significant role in interviews, requiring candidates to demonstrate their problem-solving and teamwork capabilities. Crafting effective narratives about past projects, conflicts, and cultural alignment can showcase a candidate's suitability for a role. Highlighting experiences where conflicts were resolved through collaboration and commitment can establish trust with potential employers.
Emphasizing Mock Interview Practice and Navigating Nerves
To excel in interviews, consistent practice through mock interviews offers valuable experience in handling coding challenges and behavioral questions. Platforms like pramp.com provide opportunities to simulate real interview scenarios, aiding in boosting confidence and reducing nervousness. Taking proactive steps like brief physical activities and refraining from excessive caffeine intake before interviews can help in managing stress levels and enhancing performance.
Let me tell you about the WORST interview I've ever had when I made it on site at Google back in 2019. My worst fear came true in this interview with the single worst interviewer I've ever had. It also exposed some serious knowledge gaps that led me to finally learn how to conquer tech interviews, increase my confidence and my boost my salary.
This is NOT a lesson on how to beat Google's interview process. We go over the interviews that 99% of developers will encounter after graduating a bootcamp and a way to beat them.
Here's a document I've been using and sharing with mentees for a while now that should help you prepare for the behavioral interview.