The Unforgettable Shortest Job Interview: Lessons from a 15-Minute Encounter

I have had my fair share of job interviews, but one stands out in my memory as the shortest and most unforgettable one. This interview was so brief that it lasted only 15 to 20 minutes, yet it left a lasting impression on me, especially when it came to the technical challenges faced.

My Background in the Professional World

During my time working in the field of electric plants for submarines as an electrical technician, and later as an IT contractor for an insurance company, I had experienced a few instances where the interview process was quick and unexpected. It was common for my manager to ask if I could start immediately. However, after a 30-year mark, my journey evolved into becoming an IT Infrastructure Manager, where I would occasionally hire individuals based on their skills and past collaborations. However, I generally preferred a more thorough interview process to ensure the best fit for the role.

The Shortest Job Interview Experience

My most memorable interview experience was one where I sat down for a job interview in February 2021. I had already secured a job by then, but the opportunity to work in a decent package was too enticing to pass up. Before the interview, I conducted my due diligence by asking colleagues about the previous interviews they had and learned that the questions asked were mostly simple technical and behavioral. The interview was expected to be straightforward, and I was already prepared for it.

The conversation began with a straightforward greeting:

Interviewer: Hello

Me: Hello Sir. Am I audible?

Interviewer: Bohat awaj hai yarr. You are audible enough. So where are you from?

Surprisingly, the interview did not proceed as expected. The interviewer skipped the introductions and instead threw a challenging technical question:

Interviewer: So, you can see a code editor on your window. I am pasting a pattern. You have to print it.

I was taken aback, and the situation quickly escalated. I found myself in a daunting position, feeling like I was about to transmit messages the wrong way. The interviewer expected my immediate response, and my mind raced with the anticipation of solving the problem.

The Technical Challenge: Printing a Pattern

The task was to print a specific pattern, which was likely a coding challenge. The challenge was to write a program to print the pattern using a code editor. However, due to my own mistake, I spent a significant amount of time figuring out how to input test cases and running the code. My mind was in a fog, and I felt like time was running out.

The following are crucial points during the interview:

Figuring out the input window and test case window took around 5-7 minutes, which was a significant portion of the allocated time. Despite my efforts, I was unable to print the pattern correctly for several attempts. When my allotted time of 15 minutes was up, the interviewer asked if I had any remaining questions.

Lessons Learned

The interview taught me some valuable lessons about job interviews and technical challenges:

No matter how well-prepared you are, running test cases can make or break your chances of getting hired. In this case, the inability to get the expected output was a critical factor. Even with a strong resume and a solid theoretical foundation, the practical application during the interview is what truly matters. A single mistake can lead to rejection, as I experienced. It's crucial to be flexible and proactive. In the interview, I showed willingness to change the topic, but the interviewer was firm in his decision to continue with the question. Underestimating a technical question can lead to unexpected outcomes. Patterns and specific coding challenges are often critical in determining a candidate's suitability for a role.

Ultimately, this interview taught me that even in a situation where I was confident and prepared, the interview process can be unpredictable. It reinforced the idea that technical skills, in addition to theoretical knowledge, are essential for success in the job market.

Conclusion

While the interview was short and challenging, it provided valuable insights into the job market and the importance of nailing technical questions. It also highlighted the need to be prepared for any situation, especially in a high-pressure environment such as a coding interview.