After seven years of working with alumni and students in Silicon Valley, I noticed one thing that stood out among those who were most prepared for interviews: their dedication to using algorithms.
Interview Prep
Many people I have mentored over the course of my career have asked me how to get a competitive edge in the job search process. People should practice algorithms every day. This is one of my most important tips. Interviews for software engineering and programming often include whiteboard algorithm questions. People who have been through the interview process at top tech companies around the world share their stories about how algorithms are used. My recruiters have shared with me that they want to quickly determine how skilled candidates are at solving complex problems when interviewing candidates for programming jobs. Algorithms and data-set exercises are akin to real life. Programmers face complex problems every day. Whiteboarding exercises are used during interviews to provide insight into the candidate’s problem solving abilities, ability to keep track details, and communication skills.
Keep Your Programming Skills Sharp
I tell job seekers that practice makes perfect. The bootcamp teaches students three stacks technology and allows them to practice their skills through exams, projects, and pitch days. It is important to continue learning even after the bootcamp ends. Job seekers should aim to improve their knowledge base. There are many resources to practice algorithms. It is strongly recommended that you code on a whiteboard or paper as well as a computer. You will be able to recognize patterns and common questions, and you will also be able to solve algorithmic problems by practicing algorithms.
Long Term Career Goals
A person should be proficient in algorithms if they want to help a team grow and solve problems. Your day job as a developer is to solve problems. Programming algorithms are a great way to do this. Coding Dojo courses will help you improve your skills and visibility at work. You can get started with algorithms immediately by downloading the Algo App, a free tool that we have created.
