In today’s highly competitive market, it is recommended that you go into a job interview knowing how to answer common interview questions. It helps if you have notes in front of you outlining the talking points that you want to hit. This will make you sound more confident and impress the interviewer.

Tell me about yourself and your experience.

Nearly every interview begins with this topic. This is your chance to highlight your experience that matches the job description. It is not necessary to discuss your early career if you are a senior developer. The past 5 years’ worth of experience is really all that is relevant. If you are a junior developer with little to no experience then you want to incorporate your studies and projects that are relevant to the job description.

Why did you leave your last job?

You always want to tell the truth when answering this question but keep it positive. If you were laid off from your last job, you can tell the truth about that. Layoffs are so common in the tech industry that the interviewer should not think anything of it.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

This is my least favorite interview question. I see myself employed in 5 years but that is not a good enough answer. The interviewer wants to hear that you want to grow professionally. They will not want to hire you if you come across as someone who is not willing to work hard. Talk about the career path that you are on and where you want to go with it.

What is your greatest professional achievement?

This is my favorite interview question. It may be hard to answer when you have little to no experience but by the time you are a senior developer, you should have many achievements to choose from and it will make you feel great to talk about them. Again, if you have little to no experience you can talk about a school or personal project.

What type of work environment do you prefer?

I prefer a work environment where I get paid. But just in case your interviewer has no sense of humor, you should probably describe the work environment you envision from the job description. If you will be part of a team, then you should want to be a team player. If you will work remotely then you should have a home office that is quiet and free from distractions so that you can be more productive than you would be in an office full of interruptions.

When you answer these common interview questions with confidence, the interviewer will be impressed. Remember to make a list of questions to ask during the interview. The interviewer should leave some time at the end of the interview for you to ask questions and you should always take advantage of that. When you get the job offer, do not be afraid to negotiate your salary!

Have a great week and Happy Coding! #LearnLoveLiveCode