Hey everyone, I could use some advice here. In nearly every interview I attend, I'm faced with obscure scenario-based questions that I've never encountered before. I suspect the interviewers are familiar with these scenarios, but I'm not! Until now, I've been trying to Google various scenarios, but I find that inefficient given the overwhelming amount of material. Plus, I'm constantly juggling the need to study Python, Bash scripting, and SQL since some interviewers ask these to evaluate my problem-solving skills. Is there a better way to prepare other than just sifting through all available resources?
4 Answers
Most scenario-based questions are designed to reveal your technical skills and troubleshooting abilities. Just make sure you hit the basics: look for logs, do some research, ask colleagues, and even consult vendors if necessary. You'll be fine as long as you cover those ground rules.
It might be comforting to know that these scenario questions aren’t designed to stump you. They’re really about understanding how you approach problems. You could start by being upfront and saying something like, "I don't have direct experience with that technology, but I've dealt with similar situations." This opens up the conversation for you to share your own experiences, which is what they’re ultimately looking for. Focus on telling your own stories about problem-solving; that's what counts!
There are a couple of approaches that can help:
1. Don't hesitate to ask clarifying questions about the scenario. Get into the technical details or even the business context if needed.
2. Work from fundamental principles and articulate what those are. That way, you can show your thought process clearly.
Having a solid understanding of the relevant domains can help you generate ideas for responses. These questions typically aim to assess your grasp of key concepts and how you tackle challenges. But if you're feeling the need to cram, it might be a sign that the jobs you're applying for are a bit above your current experience level.
Thanks for the advice! I have three years of experience and worked in a pretty stable MNC. I think I need to start building some complex projects on my own to deepen my knowledge.