How do you overcome technical challenges in IT interviews?

1 Know what to expect

The first step to overcoming technical challenges in IT interviews is to research the company, the role, and the interview process. Find out what kind of technical questions they typically ask, what tools and technologies they use, and what level of expertise they expect from you. You can use online resources, such as Glassdoor, LinkedIn, or HackerRank, to get an idea of the common topics and formats of technical interviews in your field. You can also reach out to your network, such as former colleagues, mentors, or friends, who have worked or interviewed at the company, and ask them for advice and feedback.

2 Brush up on the basics

The second step to overcoming technical challenges in IT interviews is to review the fundamental concepts and skills that are relevant to your role and the company. You don't have to memorize every detail, but you should have a solid grasp of the core principles, frameworks, and best practices that underpin your work. For example, if you're applying for a web developer position, you should be familiar with HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and common web development tools and libraries. You should also be able to explain how the web works, how to design and implement web applications, and how to troubleshoot and debug common issues.

3 Practice your coding

The third step to overcoming technical challenges in IT interviews is to practice your coding skills and improve your speed and accuracy. You can use online platforms, such as LeetCode, CodeSignal, or Codewars, to solve various coding problems and challenges that simulate real-world scenarios. You can also practice coding on a whiteboard or a paper, as some interviews may require you to do so. You should be able to write clean, efficient, and readable code that follows the coding standards and conventions of the language and the company. You should also be able to test your code, handle edge cases and errors, and optimize your solution for time and space complexity.

4 Explain your thinking

The fourth step to overcoming technical challenges in IT interviews is to explain your thinking process and communicate clearly with your interviewer. You should not just write code or draw diagrams, but also verbalize your thoughts, assumptions, and rationale behind your decisions. You should also ask clarifying questions, confirm the requirements, and validate your inputs and outputs. By explaining your thinking, you can demonstrate your logical thinking, analytical skills, and communication skills, as well as show your interest and enthusiasm for the problem and the company.

5 Learn from feedback

The fifth step to overcoming technical challenges in IT interviews is to learn from feedback and improve your performance. You should always ask for feedback from your interviewer, either during or after the interview, and take note of their comments and suggestions. You should also reflect on your own strengths and weaknesses, and identify the areas where you need to improve. You can use online resources, such as blogs, podcasts, or books, to learn new skills, techniques, or concepts that can help you solve technical problems more effectively. You can also seek feedback from your peers, mentors, or coaches, and practice with mock interviews or coding sessions.

6 Be confident and positive

The sixth and final step to overcoming technical challenges in IT interviews is to be confident and positive. You should not let your nerves, doubts, or mistakes affect your performance or attitude. You should remember that technical challenges are not meant to trick you or make you fail, but to assess your skills, knowledge, and potential. You should also remember that you have prepared well, practiced hard, and learned a lot. You should be proud of your achievements, and show your interviewer that you are passionate, motivated, and eager to learn and grow as an IT professional.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?