How to answer difficult questions. Interviews and working in testing

In this video we look at interviews and how to answer questions you have never faced before. We go through the different types of question that can come up and offer strategies for handling each of them.

Questions that size you up as a person: here the employer wants to know how level-headed, positive and attentive you are, and whether you will fit the company's culture. The best preparation is to sit a few interviews and get a feel for what tends to get asked.

Behavioural questions: be ready to talk about your past experience, the situations you have been in and what you achieved. You cannot prepare for every possible question, but gather as much information as you can about what might come up by interviewing a few times.

Questions about technologies and experience: if you have never worked with a particular technology, point to similar ones you do know. That shows flexibility and an ability to pick up new things quickly.

Algorithmic problems: interviews often ask you to solve a problem on a whiteboard or a computer. What matters is demonstrating your reasoning and analytical thinking, along with the ability to write code.

One of the most important things is to be sincere and honest. If you do not know the answer, or have never been in the situation being described, say so. Do not invent stories or skills you do not have.

On the whole, stay positive within reason and stay attentive. We also recommend not fearing your first few interviews: they can be nerve-racking and rarely feel comfortable, but with experience the fear fades and you will grow confident answering even the hard questions.