How to not mess up a technical interview

In 2021, I interviewed with Google and Goldman Sachs for a summer internship role. I got a “we will get back to you soon” kinda reply which we all know is not a positive sign.

Ahem well not sure about how to prepare but I am qualified enough to write What to avoid so that you won’t end up getting in the “will get back to you” zone.

Photo by Headway on Unsplash

My mistakes which you can avoid in your next Interview

1. Not preparing the introduction: Mostly interviews start with the introduction and it’s kinda your first impression on the interviewer. So prepare a small but on-point introduction. Keep it simple and sweet and try to not repeat the things which are already mentioned in your Resume. You can check out a few examples here.
2. Not asking questions: Whenever the interviewer gives a problem to solve, ask clarifying questions regarding the problem. Make sure you and the interviewer are on the same page. Ask ze for test cases or even you can create one and check it with the interviewer.
3. Not thinking out loud: The interviewer mostly cares about your thinking process, how you approach a particular problem. They don’t want someone who can just code, they want someone that knows how to solve problems. So discuss what you are thinking, the very first approach might not be the optimized one but it helps.
4. Not doing research about the company: Visit Company’s website, read about the company’s vision, get to Know the Industry and Competitors. It’ll help you to answer the HR kinda question (Only in the rare case they ask it in a tech interview)

Few things to keep in mind, before you actually give the interview

1. Recruiter is there to HIRE you: They are interviewing you among all applied candidates because they are willing to hire you, just give your best in the interview.

2. You are never prepared enough: Don’t get panic for not solving enough problems or not knowing a particular concept, it’s okay. You can always mention that you don’t know a particular concept, they don’t expect you to know everything.

Okay, that’s it from my side. Now it’s time to rock on your interview!

All the very best!