I'm shitting it. Took voluntary redundancy last year, and now, nearly 10 months later, have my first proper interview later this afternoon. Having been out of the game for nearly a year, I'm feeling extremely anxious, particularly as have been pre-warned there will be a 15 minute technical test as part of the hour-long interview. On paper, I'm a really good fit for the role, but the fear has really got me over the last 48 hours.
Role is in scientific computing (specifically, bioinformatics), so very hard to specifically predict what a technical test will consist of.
Back to the cramming!
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For example, if they ask why you are suited to the job, get an ancient scroll out of your pocket, stare them in the eyes (If there is more than one interviewer train your eyes to look at both like a chameleon) and say "It was foretold"
Then open a packet of mini eggs.
Jobs as good as yours.
Good luck, sure you'll do fine
I had the odd interview over the years but when I was made redundant after 23 years having to do them in earnest was a different ballgame. I think if you've prepped you will be okay.
FWIW the most useful interview I did was one where I stunk. Awful, nearly walked out the room. However, all the questions stuck in my head, I understood what I didn't understand and the next interview for a similar job I aced. I wouldn't wish that upon you but the worst outcome is that it's at least a learning experience.
Although I have no idea what bioinformatics even are do - I'd stink all over again at that one!
Go in, be yourself & don't worry too much.
Also, take the opportunity to see if you want to work for them! That's also important.
I like it when candidates questions- it shows they've put some thought in.
Is the job purely bioinformatics or part of a lab group?
If you can help design/do experiments it's a huge plus & gives you "ownership" of the process. (I dragged my groups bioinformatician into the lab for a week to show him how much work it was for me to produce extra replicates! I THINK he enjoyed it- especially when we got to Library prep and MinIon stuff) .
I wouldn't worry too much about a technical test. I don't know about bioinformatics, but I've interviewed for Comp Sci related roles at loads of companies. It's only purely tech companies that have really hard technical bits. Places like Google and Amazon, other places I applied to like Banks and Insurance Companies just wanted to make sure you knew what you were doing.
Seriously: If you value it, take/fetch it yourself
Seriously: If you value it, take/fetch it yourself
Break open a kit kat.
And then they send the rejection letter just to remind you.
Sure you'll do fine.
Bit of a mixed bag. Main part of the interview went well, tech test was a bit meh. Reserving judgement, but not exactly brimming with confidence. I did hear from a colleague who'd interviewed for a slightly different post this morning (same interview panel, same test), and they came out with similar feelings, so maybe the tech test was purposely pitched a little tougher than expected.
Not going to let it ruin the weekend, so will just sit tight and see what comes of it all, later next week maybe.
Don't overthink it.
Another week of waiting then perhaps.
Sorry to hijack this thread by the way but I thought this was relevant. Fingers crossed for @DarnWeight as well as to myself!