If you read my
past weblog entry on
Tech interviews and the as keyword (which I know you didn't, because no one read that blog ever), then you may know that I do some (lots) of tech interviews.
I'd like to break down some tips for those of you who are going to be given one from someone who gives them. If you already do these, then you probably know this already, and can skip to some
fun reading, or some
neat stuff.
Please remember that this is just one guy's opinion, and if I turn out to be right on a whole list of things, then the catholic church pronounces it a miracle.
So, for those that are getting "teched":
- Do not be afraid to say "I don't know." It's much better than acting like you do. So you've not worked with that particular part of the framework/language/whatever. Big deal - we'll move on, and you don't sound like an idiot. Extra kudos will be given if you follow it up with something like ", but I know where to find out".
- Ask questions and think out loud.: I'll give questions that have no outright answers so that you have to both ask for clarification and explain your answer as well. I'm sure you've heard it before - people want to know how you think. But it's more than that! -- we also want to know how well you can communicate what you are thinking! It's great if you're a genius, but if no one who is working with you can keep up because you're such an enigma, then we might as well only have a team of one.
- Last, but not least (well, least among the three here, probably), Don't be be oversell, and don't be arrogant: The person teching you may be of higher or lower caliber than you. If lower, he's probably making sure that you are a heavy hitter for his boss - be nice, and don't talk down. Let them know that you do know your stuff, but that you can work with people working their way up to it. On the other hand; don't be nervous if they're the expert and you're not -- they want a good idea of your skills and how you'd fit in with what they need. Be honest and get the job. Overselling yourself will just make you look like an idiot during the interview.
Hope these help.