Top Interview Questions for Software Engineer
A software engineer is someone who designs, develops, maintains, tests, and evaluates software. They work on both the user interface and the back-end of an application.
According to The Global Developer Population 2019, we can expect that the developer population will more than double in the next decade, to about 45 million in 2030, with an annual growth of 8.2%.
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Hard Skills
Use these questions to identify a candidate’s technical knowledge and abilities
Soft Skills
Use these questions to assess a candidate’s personality traits and cognitive skills
What to look for while interviewing for a Software Engineer?
The skills required for a Software engineer position are expertise in programming languages like Java, C++, Python, and basic exposure to computer architecture, operating systems, etc. Therefore, look for a candidate who has knowledge of all these.
Here are some skills to look out for when hiring a Software Engineer.
Role-specific skills to look for: Java, Python, C#, Ruby, Object-oriented design, Software development, testing, and debugging.
Soft skills to look for: Creativity, flexibility, written and verbal communication skills, problem-solving, and teamwork.
Pro Tip: Always screen before your interview. Use Online Assessment to screen applicants for a Software engineer position before blocking your time for an in-person interview.
Questions to ask while interviewing a Software Engineer
We have compiled a set of questions with the help of 70+ hiring managers at different organizations.
Top Role-based interview questions for Software Engineer
Can you list out the different types of static testing tools?
Purpose of this interview question:
This question is designed to test the candidates’ knowledge of software testing and the tools used for the same.
What to listen for:
- Top candidates would list out all the different types of static testing tools.
What do you know about SDLC?
Purpose of this interview question:
Software Development Life Cycle is one of the crucial concepts required in software development, hence anyone applying for the job role must know about the same.
What to listen for:
- Listen for the specific terms that explain SDLC and what processes it involves.
How do you structure your source code to make it easy to leverage by your colleagues?
Purpose of this interview question:
As teamwork and cooperation are one of the major skills for any developer, hence this question is designed to know if the candidate knows how to work with code to make it easier for others to understand.
What to listen for:
- Candidates need to discuss their use of code organization and commenting, to ensure the efficiency of understanding amongst collaborators.
How to screen Software Engineer for soft skills?
What are your salary expectations?
Purpose of this interview question:
This question is helps in understanding what the market is currently paying for certain qualifications, experience, and skills.
What to listen for:
- Top candidates would give the range of salary they expect.
How do you set goals for yourself, can you give an example?
Purpose of this interview question:
Since the planning of goals and time management is a critical ability for this job role, hence this question tests the same.
What to listen for:
- Ideal candidates would elaborate on what basis they set their goals and their dedication towards them.
Do you have any questions for us?
Purpose of this interview question:
The question is designed to know how interested the candidates are in your company.
What to listen for:
- Top candidates would ask questions and show interested in the job and company-related details.
Start Optimizing your Software Engineer Hiring today
Find and hire talent with confidence. If your candidate doesn’t know the answer to the above questions and you’re hiring for a Software Engineer position, then they’re obviously not a great fit.
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