What to Expect from the First Interview for a Junior Dev Job

The first interview for a junior developer job can feel intimidating, but knowing what to expect can help you feel more confident. Here is a breakdown of what usually happens and how you can prepare for each stage.

Introduction and Background

• What to expect: Most interviews start with introductions. The interviewer may ask you to talk about yourself, your education, and why you are interested in the role.
• How to stand out: Show your enthusiasm and explain what led you to software development. Share a brief story or motivation that brought you to this field.

Questions About Your Experience

• What to expect: You may be asked about your projects, internships, or coursework. The interviewer wants to know what you worked on, what you learned, and any challenges you faced.
• How to stand out: Be ready to talk about your favorite project, what you contributed, and what you learned. If you have a portfolio or GitHub, mention it and be prepared to discuss your code.

Technical Questions

• What to expect: Expect some basic technical questions. These might cover programming fundamentals, algorithms, or simple coding problems. The goal is not to trick you, but to see how you approach problems and communicate your thinking.
• How to stand out: Practice explaining your thought process out loud. If you get stuck, talk through your approach and show your willingness to learn.

Soft Skills and Teamwork

• What to expect: Employers want to know if you can work well with others. You might be asked how you handle feedback, work in a team, or deal with challenges.
• How to stand out: Give honest examples from your experience, even if they are from school or non-technical jobs. Show that you are open to feedback and enjoy collaborating.

Your Questions

• What to expect: At the end, you will usually have a chance to ask questions. This is your opportunity to learn more about the company and the team.
• How to stand out: Prepare a few thoughtful questions in advance. You can ask about the team, the company culture, or what a typical day looks like. This shows you are interested and engaged.

Remember, interviews are a two-way conversation. The company wants to learn about you, but you are also learning about them. Be yourself, stay calm, and use each interview as a learning experience. Good luck!