These material are compiled for helping junior / senior software engineers and others.

Java Interview Special Tips

1. Explain for 10 to 15 minutes a technology or product that you are familiar with?

This is to test the person's communication skill and technical skill. If you are really comfortable, start with a public domain technology like Struts or JUnit. If not, sometimes it is better to explain the product that you worked with rather than read about or studied.

2. Tell me about yourself?

The first is focusing on the needs of the organization. The second is focusing on the needs of the people within that organization. Don't talk so much about strong points about yourself because your resume has already brought you at the interview site.

3. How to deal with a question that is inappropriate?

Briefly answer the question and move to a new topic.
Ignore the question and redirect the discussion toward a different topic.
If the question is blatant and offensive, you have every right to terminate the interview and walk out.
Don't answer the question, but answer the intent behind the question.
For instance, if the interviewer asks, "Who is going to take care of your children when you have to travel?" You might answer, "I can meet the travel and work schedule that this job requires." Or if he/she asks, "Are you planning a family in the future?" You might say, "Right now I am focused on my career and as a family is always an option, it is not a priority right now."

4. What lessons have you learnt from "Apprentice" show?

At least 8 lessons:
1. Have a Strategy
2. Find Out What the Boss/Client Wants and Give it to Them
3. Deal With the Person in Charge
4. Be Positive
5. Have the Courage to Speak Your Mind
6. Stand Up For Yourself
7. Be Flexible
8. There's Life After Being Fired

5. What are your weaknesses?

This is the most dreaded question of all. Handle it by minimizing your weakness and emphasizing your strengths. Stay away from personal qualities and concentrate on professional traits: "I am always working on improving my communication skills to be a more effective presenter. I recently joined Toastmasters.com, which I find very helpful."

6. Why should we hire you?

Summarize your experiences: "With five years' experience working in this industry and my proven record of saving the company money, I could make a big difference in your company. I'm confident I would be a great addition to your team."

7. Why do you want to work here?

The interviewer is listening for an answer that indicates you've given this some thought and are not sending out resumes just because there is an opening. For example, "I've selected key companies whose mission statements are in line with my values, where I know I could be excited about what the company does, and this company is very high on my list of desirable choices."

8. What are your goals?

Sometimes it's best to talk about short-term and intermediate goals rather than locking yourself into the distant future. For example, "My immediate goal is to get a job in a growth-oriented company. My long-term goal will depend on where the company goes. I hope to eventually grow into a position of responsibility."

9. Why did you leave (are you leaving) your job?

If you're unemployed, state your reason for leaving in a positive context: "I managed to survive two rounds of corporate downsizing, but the third round was a 20 percent reduction in the workforce, which included me."
If you are employed, focus on what you want in your next job: "After two years, I made the decision to look for a company that is team-focused, where I can add my experience."

10. When were you most satisfied in your job?

The interviewer wants to know what motivates you. If you can relate an example of a job or project when you were excited, the interviewer will get an idea of your preferences. "I was very satisfied in my last job, because I worked directly with the customers and their problems; that is an important part of the job for me."

11. What can you do for us that other candidates can't? or What makes you unique?

This will take an assessment of your experiences, skills and traits. Summarize concisely: "I have a unique combination of strong technical skills, and the ability to build strong customer relationships. This allows me to use my knowledge and break down information to be more user-friendly."

12. What are three positive things your last boss would say about you?

It's time to pull out your old performance appraisals and boss's quotes. This is a great way to brag about yourself through someone else's words: "My boss has told me that I am the best designer he has ever had. He knows he can rely on me, and he likes my sense of humor."

13. What salary are you seeking?

It is to your advantage if the employer tells you the range first. Prepare by knowing the going rate in your area, and your bottom line or walk-away point. One possible answer would be: "I am sure when the time comes, we can agree on a reasonable amount. In what range do you typically pay someone with my background?"


Sources :
DEVFYI - Developer Resource - FYI
TechGuider


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