How to Prepare for Technical Interviews: A Detailed Guide for Big Companies and Startups
A step-by-step guide to mastering technical interview preparation for both big tech companies and small startups.
Introduction
Preparing for a technical interview can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re just starting out as a beginner and are unsure where to start. As a software engineer based in Pakistan, I’ve been through this process and learned a lot from my experiences. This guide is for anyone preparing for interviews, with advice tailored to the kind of company you’re applying to—whether it’s a big tech company or a small startup.
Let’s dive in!
Understanding the Company Types
In Pakistan, tech companies can generally be divided into two categories:
Big Tech Companies
Typically have a large no. of employees. (May vary depending on the company)
Focus on core engineering concepts during interviews.
Small Startups or medium-sized companies
Mostly service-based companies with less no. of employees starting from 2 and mostly end to 50.
Focus more on your specific skills and projects.
The preparation process varies depending on the type of company, so let’s explore what you need to do for each.
Preparation Guide for Big Tech Companies
1. Master Core Engineering Concepts
Big companies often test your fundamentals rather than specific languages or frameworks. Focus on these core computer science and software engineering subjects:
Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)
Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA)
Operating Systems (OS)
Computer Networking (CN)
Relational Database Management Systems (RDBMS)
Review your notes, watch tutorials, or take crash courses to strengthen your understanding of these topics. If you want me to make the crash courses for these core subjects, then comment “Core Subjects” I’ll start a new series on these courses.
2. Practice Problem-Solving Skills
Problem-solving is crucial if you wanna become a good software engineer. Start practicing coding questions on platforms like LeetCode or GeeksforGeeks (If you’re just starting out as a beginner).
Tips for Effective Practice:
Set a timer to efficiently manage your time.
Focus on improving your logical thinking and communication skills.
Don’t just memorize syntax; explain your thought process while solving problems as the interviewer will check your logical skills more often, rather than writing the whole code at once.
3. Work on Domain-Specific Skills
If you’re applying for a specific role, prepare for domain-related questions. For example, if you’re a frontend developer, research commonly asked questions about:
JavaScript
React.js
Next.js
Search for “most asked interview questions” and practice accordingly.
4. Sharpen Your IQ and Puzzle-Solving Skills
Many big companies include puzzles or intelligence-based questions to test your problem-solving approach. Practice these types of questions on platforms like GeeksforGeeks.
5. Be Ready to Discuss Your Projects
Your projects will be a key part of the interview. Be prepared to explain:
The technologies you used.
The challenges you faced and how you solved them.
The overall impact of your projects.
Pro Tip: Avoid copying projects directly from online resources—you’ll struggle to answer questions about them.
6. Prepare for Behavioral Questions
Once you’ve cleared the technical rounds, the HR round will test your soft skills. Common questions include:
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Search online for sample answers to such questions and tailor them to your experiences.
PS : They'll also ask your CGPA and University Name (so try to maintain good GPA from the start)
Preparation Guide for Small Startups
For startups, the interview process is typically more focused on your practical skills and how well you fit the company’s needs.
What to Focus On:
Deep Dive into Your Tech Stack:
If you’re a frontend developer, prepare to answer questions about React.js, JavaScript, and related tools.
Be confident in explaining your expertise in your field.
Project Discussions:
Similar to big companies, startups will discuss your projects.
Highlight how your skills have been applied to real-world problems.
Adaptability and Problem-Solving:
- Startups may look for candidates who can learn quickly and have good skillset, so showcase your adaptability and fast learning speed.
Conclusion
This guide shares everything I’ve learned from my own interview experiences. I wish I’d had such a detailed roadmap when I was starting out—it would have saved me from a lot of mistakes!
Remember, whether you’re preparing for a big tech company or a startup, the key is to understand what they’re looking for and tailor your preparation accordingly.
Good luck with your interviews, and I hope this guide helps you land your dream job!
Important tip : Don't forget to tailor your resume according to the job description.
Good Luck for your coming interviews!!
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