Most hiring managers know that finding the best IT professionals takes more than just an assessment of technical qualifications. A candidate's interpersonal skills and initiative, for example, are important factors in determining job fit.
So if you’re applying for an IT job, don’t only expect predictable questions like, “Where do you see yourself in five years?”
Rather, take the time to do you research about what IT interview questions you may be asked at your next job interview. Job interview questions in the IT field are susceptible to change as with the evolution of technology and new software updates, so it’s imperative to also stay ahead of trends and have a confident knowledge of the industry, not just the role you’re applying for.
Examples of IT interview questions:
To help you prepare, here are seven IT interview questions that are designed to elicit more targeted responses and better insights into your individual fit for the job on offer:
1. Tell me about a recent project or process that you made better, faster, smarter or more efficient
Employers today need IT professionals who understand the big-picture impact of their work. You should be able to explain how your efforts can make a difference for the employer by using concrete examples of past projects you have worked on, the challenges you overcame, and most importantly, the result you delivered for the company.
2. You’ve just been assigned to a project involving a new technology. How would you get started?
This question is designed to give insight into how you handle technology products with which you have less expertise. What steps have you taken to overcome a knowledge gap and ensure that you still get things done on time? IT interview questions such as these are also aimed to gauge how well you handle challenges and deal with stress.
3. What technology-related blogs, podcasts or websites do you follow? Do you share any information online?
One of the must-ask IT interview questions by employers is to check whether you are staying up to date on trends. Do you have a sincere interest in IT and keep up on changes in the field and your industry? With technology rapidly changing in today’s digital age, it’s crucial to demonstrate your background knowledge of the IT industry during the job interview stage.
4. How do you keep your technology skills current?
Have you taken online classes, or do you spend some of your spare time coding or troubleshooting technology issues? Have you taken on work projects in areas of tech that you wanted to learn more about? These IT interview questions are designed to explore how actively you’re involved in the IT industry and whether your interest could contribute to the role on offer.
5. What three character traits would your friends use to describe you?
While not technical, this question can clue the employer into your personality characteristics or qualities that may not be apparent through the resume or IT interview questions. Make sure you have a list of character traits that you believe you can demonstrate in the role you’re applying for. If you’re unsure about what those traits may be, ask a friend who may work in the same industry or a former colleague if they can share some insight into what they believe are positive traits that you can contribute to a company.
6. Can you tell me about a time when things didn’t go the way you wanted at work, such as a project that failed or being passed over for a promotion?
Everyone deals with professional disappointment at some point. What employers want to know is how you handle these situations. The best candidates will use setbacks as springboards toward positive changes, such as getting a certification that will help position themselves for advancement next time there’s an opportunity. This question is about understanding how well you overcome challenges and you’re perseverance to continue working towards a goal.
7. What are your favourite and least favourite technology products, and why?
In addition to learning more about whether you like the products you use at your company, this question helps employers gauge your enthusiasm and knowledge. Do you get animated when discussing the benefits of certain tools? Do you seem to have a solid grasp of the positive and negative features of different technologies?
Remember to have a list of questions ready toward the end of the job interview to ask the employer. This is not only beneficial to your employer’s time - it also helps you find out more about the job you’re applying for. For instance, you may reconsider your interest if the work culture of the company doesn’t suit you. Preparing for your next job interview with these IT interview questions could change your fortune and readiness for the role you’re applying for. Like most important steps in your career, it’s all about your preparation.
Want more examples of common IT interview questions and answers? Take a look at our Java, SQL and .NET interview questions or search for current jobs.
