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Tips for Preparing for a Technical Test
Tips for Preparing for a Technical Test
Technical tests are used by interviewers to see how candidates think and work out problems. Remember the technical test is not there to trip you up! It’s used to find the best person for the job. But, as the technical tests can be the most nerve-wracking part of an interview, we have put together some tips to help you out.
What is a Technical Test?
The technical test is there to gage your personality, knowledge and ability to cope with challenges. During the technical test you want to show that you have the skills needed for the job, and that you can tackle real-life, everyday problems.
The technical interview is normally conducted in three stages:
- A screen/phone conversation which allows your interviewer to initially see your enthusiasm, personality and whether you have the right qualifications.
- Some companies will do a coding interview, to test your skills and ability before asking you in for an onsite interview.
- The onsite interview is where you show off your skills and prove why you are the best candidate for the job.
This is only an idea of how a technical interview maybe structured, and obviously for each company it will differ slightly.
Preparing for a Technical Test
Preparation for technical tests is very important; you don’t want to go in blind. In order to prepare make sure you fully understand what you are being tested on and what is expected of you. Never be afraid to ask questions if you are unsure, it’s better to ask than assume.
When preparing try and time yourself, as many technical tests are timed. You want to make sure you have time to answer the questions properly and don’t have to rush at the end. The technical test is designed to see how candidates deal with real life scenarios, so be real and truthful when answering. Use your knowledge and common sense, don’t just say what you think they want to hear. As scary as these tests are, they aren’t there to trip you up, they’re a way for your interviewer to get to know you.
Try and avoid leaving the revision for your test until the night before. Refreshing your knowledge is important but leave yourself time so you don’t have to cram. You could always try revising and practising with someone else, this allows you to verbally tackle possible questions and scenarios. Remember, your answer is important, but it’s mostly about how you got there and the problems you faced along the way. Don’t neglect your standard job interview prep as well as preparing for the technical test. They’re both needed and necessary for you to perform at your best throughout the interview process.
What are Interviewers Looking for in a Technical Test?
The main thing the interviewer is looking for in your technical test is your technical knowledge and understanding, they want to see enthusiasm for your possible new role and the new technologies and programmes you’ll be using. The technical test allows your interviewer to see how well you can present and analyse information, handle pressure, come up with solutions and explain yourself to people.
Types of Questions You May Be Asked
Interviewers will generally ask questions which allows you to show off your skills and expertise. Expect questions to be related to the job you are applying for. You’ll most likely be asked questions which allow you to present your technical knowledge. Generally, questions and tasks will be related to the job.
During the Technical Test
During the technical test you’re being tested on your knowledge, skills and qualifications, but also how you communicate with other people. Not knowing the answer to a question is ok. They’ll most likely throw in hard questions on purpose to test your reactions and how you deal with challenges. Trying your best to answer the question shows more about your personality. But, if you really don’t know the answer, be honest and tell them you don’t know, they will respect that more than making something up.
Towards the end of the process maybe try showing you eagerness for the role, by asking your interviewer questions; possibly ask how they would’ve tackled the situation or dealt with the challenges presented.
Once your technical test is completed try not to overthink it, as you cannot change it now. Any mistakes you think you made are normal in a stressful situation and honestly just show you’re human.
This isn’t exhaustive advice, and tips may differ slightly in other places. However, we hope that the information we have given will help reduce stress and allow you to be proactive in your preparation and the technical test itself.
If you need any more advice on preparing for interviews, please check out our website for blogs on ‘Advice on Video Interviews’ and ‘How to Talk About Yourself in an Interview’.
Stay Safe,
Team Affecto.