Mistakes software engineers make during a job interview

Software engineers start their careers with a lot of hype around them. They are the best, they are the smartest, they are the most talented and they are going to change the world! They start their careers with an impressive list of skills and qualifications, but, as they start to learn their way around their industry, they discover that there are quite a few mistakes they make when they go through an interview for a job. Some of these mistakes can be fixed, but others are harder to deal with. Here is a list of mistakes software engineers make when they are going through an interview for a job.

Failing to prepare

Software engineers should always be prepared with their resume, cover letter, and any other materials that they need for the interview. They should also have a list of questions that they want to ask the interviewer. It is really important to have some information about the company and the job you are applying to. It will not be good for your profile if they ask you what do you know about the company and why you want to work here and you start with an “ehmmm..”.

You should have information not only about the company, but about the position as well. Make sure you read carefully the job posting and that you know where you are applying at. It will be helpful to demonstrate why you check all those bullets in the list.

Showing up to the interview in a bad mood

Within the first seven seconds of meeting, people will have a solid impression of who you are — and some research suggests a tenth of a second is all it takes to start determining traits like trustworthiness. That isn’t enough time to talk about your history, charm your new contact, or make up for any initial blunders. So it really matter what you are going to do in those seven seconds.

If you are negative, you barely speak, most likely you will receive the same behaviour from the interviewer. His perception of you will not be positive and you will be marked as a downer in his/her personal notes.

It takes zero effort to be dressed up properly and to be on time. Make sure you are giving the impression of a optimist. Give the interviewer a firm handshake and smile. Would you hire someone who barely said “Hello”?

Not showing interest after the interview

This is a pro tip.

Most engineers who are interviewed are expecting to be contacted by the recruiter. And this is common. They expect for the other side to make the next step. They do not take initiative.

Here is where you should make your move. Send a follow up email, if you have not heard anything for a week or two. Send a “thank you” email to the interviewer, acknowledging that he devoted this time just for you. This will definitely make you stand out from the crowd.

Also, if things go south, if you send a follow up email, you will be informed that your application will not move forward and you will stop waiting for an answer. This will help you focus on the next interview.

The interview process is not easy. Some people have a knack for interviewing and others do not. The process is made more difficult for those who are struggling to find a job. The interview process is not only difficult for the applicant, but for the interviewer as well. There are a lot of things that can go wrong, but it’ s always up to you to prevent them.