You just read an email that made your heart race and had you instinctively reaching for your phone to text your mom the news – you got the interview!!

With a deep breath, I realized the gravity of what had transpired – an interview.

Showcasing your abilities (and ambitions) to a possible employer can be difficult even in the best of circumstances, but when you’ve just acquired new tech knowledge and are about to attend an interview for a job within the technology sector? While this opportunity sparks enthusiasm, it can also be daunting; What if I am not familiar enough with the role? Will they ask me to do something difficult? How will my career history in HR come into play during the interview process?!

Don’t be afraid! This guide will teach you EXACTLY how to make a lasting impression during your initial tech job interview.

Through reading this comprehensive guide, you will gain invaluable insight into:

  • What to expect in the interview.
  • How to prepare for the interview.
  • How to act during the interview.
  • What to do after the interview.

A major obstacle for tech interviewees is the intimidating code examination!

WHAT KIND OF CODING TESTS OR EXERCISES SHOULD I EXPECT?

Interviewing for a tech job can be intimidating, particularly for junior developers who are faced with the daunting task of completing code tests. Admittedly, displaying your coding expertise can be daunting; it’s just like taking the SAT or auditioning for the band—it can make you feel uneasy. In short, having butterflies about a code test is understandable and normal. However, it’s important to remember that a code test has multiple purposes:

1. The code test is a comprehensive method for the interviewer to know if your skills are as good in reality as they appear on paper. It’s also an ideal way for both you and the employer to evaluate each other. Stepping out of your comfort zone can be beneficial, however, it’s wise to take things at a steady pace rather than suddenly attempting something more likely to overwhelm you. For example, jumping from HTML coding directly into constructing an entire database could prove too ambitious.

2. A code test provides the people interviewing you with an insight into your problem-solving skills and what strategies you use when stuck. Even if it feels like a dead end, don’t give up on the challenge! Seek out enlightenment by asking questions for further explanation, and don’t be scared to inquire whether it’s all right if you use Google as a means to resolve those tough coding issues – just like in the real world.

3. A code test is a great opportunity to sharpen your skills and expand your knowledge. Take the time to view it as an educational experience and you will be rewarded! With each interview you attend, your understanding of the tech industry deepens while also enhancing your qualifications for future hiring processes.

WHEN YOU’RE UNSURE HOW TO ANSWER A QUESTION: ADVICE ON WHAT TO DO

Keep a level head! Don’t worry – you’ve got this! If you find the code test intimidating, it’s important to maintain perspective and assure yourself that everything will be alright. By gathering yourself, taking a deep breath, and exuding assurance, you will appear confident and composed – qualities that any boss would appreciate in an upcoming worker.

Before you attempt the test, make sure to read and comprehend the instructions carefully. Utter something along the lines of, “So, the question is…” or “I want to make sure I understand what you’re looking for…” Don’t be shy to request additional information, primarily if you can justify how this would influence your strategy for tackling the problem.

Don’t just contemplate your next move in silence or write solutions on the whiteboard without anyone else knowing. SPEAK UP! The interviewer is likely more interested in your problem-solving skills than the accuracy of any single answer. How you come up with solutions and work through them can often be far more valuable to employers than a correct response alone.

Even if the problem at hand seems insurmountable, you must try to solve it. Employers value employees who are patient and tenacious in their approach—not those who give up when faced with an obstacle. Let go of the “I don’t know” phrase and instead use, “Let me think.” Subsequently, put into action what you have read in this article.

This content was first featured on Skillcrush and has since been shared with thousands of readers. Join now to gain access to more engaging and enlightening guides!

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