Preparing for and Succeeding in a Technical Interview that Takes Place over the Phone or Online

The key to success is meticulous planning.

Many programmers aspire to join a major organization, yet the interview process can be intimidating and there is no assurance of success. Ensuring a positive initial impression and securing the role is highly dependent on thorough preparation.

Gabriela De Luca and Maria Rios of Works, and Joo Ferreira of Worksn recently held a discussion about what is necessary to be successful in a technical interview at a global organization, and the difficulties that applicants face, particularly if English is not their native language.

If you have been selected for an interview with a multinational company, you are evidently a strong contender in your profession. During the interview process, it is essential that you demonstrate excellent communication and problem-solving capabilities.

What you say and do outside of the realm of technology is what will distinguish you from the other contenders.

  • A high level of technical skill is insufficient:

    It is imperative to gain an understanding of the situation before making any decisions. To do this, it is beneficial to engage the interviewer in conversation, ask questions and seek clarification during the dialogue.
  • Put your mind to the test and show them what you’re made of.

    Explaining the thought process behind problem solving can be a beneficial exercise, as it helps to give an audience greater insight into the work undertaken. In fact, the process of coming to a solution may be more important than the result itself.
  • To Demonstrate intent:

    Companies are seeking employees who can bring more to the table than just technical skills. Showing a passion for things outside of your traditional role can help to demonstrate your commitment and give the interviewer insight into your personality.
  • Read up about the topic:

    It is highly recommended to research the firm thoroughly prior to submitting an application. The Works team can provide assistance in gaining insight into the company’s products and services, its competitors, and its mission statement, allowing you to confidently answer interview questions and distinguish yourself from other candidates.

The panel concluded that it is understandable that non-native English speakers may feel anxious when faced with the prospect of having to conduct job interviews in English. Suggestions to alleviate this were proposed, including:

  • Engage in an Introspective Dialogue with yourself:

    It is advisable to anticipate potential questions and practice your responses with a colleague or even in front of a mirror. Preparation for common interview questions should focus on your experience, qualifications and technical skills.
  • Acquire a Working Knowledge of the Local Dialect.

    Make sure you know what terms like “back-to-back” and “ping” imply in the context of your organisation and industry.
  • This is not a competition:

    There is no need for haste. Get your point through slowly and carefully.
  • Sit Back and Relax (right):

    In a job interview, it can be difficult to stay composed and confident. For those who tend to be apprehensive in such situations, it is advisable to practice some simple relaxation techniques that can be utilized in the moment.
  • Maintain an “English only” routine:

    Consider having the same conversation that you just had, but in English, when you are out undertaking tasks such as grocery shopping or getting a cup of coffee. This will enable you to refine your English skills in a more realistic environment.
  • Authenticity Requires You to:

    It is important to be genuine and to accept one’s heritage rather than pretending to have a different accent. During an interview, it can be stressful to worry about mispronouncing a term, so it is important to be aware of unfamiliar pronunciations that could lead to confusion.

Now, due to the current situation, most interviews are taking place remotely, so it is important to ensure you are well-prepared in order to give the best impression possible. There are several steps you can take to ensure you are ready for your interview.

  • Stay connected:

    Maintain a strong and quick connection so that you may communicate with the interviewer without interruption.
  • Try to locate a peaceful spot where you can think clearly:

    The ideal location for a meeting or presentation should be one that is quiet, well-lit and free of distractions such as busy streets or people walking nearby. To ensure that the focus remains on the presenter, the environment should be one that facilitates the audience’s attention.
  • Pull up Your pants:

    Even if the dress code has been relaxed for remote workers, it is still important to appear professional during an interview. It is worth bearing in mind that you may be asked to stand up during the meeting, so wearing trousers is advisable to create a good impression.
  • It functions just as a conventional interview would:

    It is important to adhere to the same professional standards for virtual interviews as you would for in-person ones; for example, ensure you are punctual, demonstrate respect towards the interviewer, and remain focused throughout.
  • Nonetheless, this is not the case:

    Prior to the call, establish which platform (e.g., Zoom, Teams or Webex) will be used. It is recommended to use a headset instead of relying on the built-in microphone, and it is advisable to take part in a test call in order to become familiar with the platform. Additionally, it is beneficial to become familiar with the whiteboard application beforehand.
  • Inevitably, Things Will Go wrong:

    It is widely known that teleworking can be difficult on occasions. If an issue arises, it is important to provide the interviewer with an explanation of the situation in full to ensure they can comprehend the issue.

If you found this post to be informative, you may also be interested in our other articles.

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