Interview Questions for Software Engineering Roles with a Non-Technical Background

Many hiring managers and interviewers are more interested in the skills and potential of a candidate rather than their background. Whether you come from a non-technical background or a traditional software engineering education, the interview process for a software engineering role involves a series of questions designed to assess your skills, knowledge, and potential to succeed in a technical environment.

Assessing Technical Skills and Progress Potential

During a non-technical background interview for a software engineering role, interviewers will typically ask about your most significant project within the past couple of years. They might inquire about the size of your team and your level of experience compared to your peers. Interviewers may also request references from your previous team members or leaders. Asking these questions helps to gauge your ability to describe your contributions and how they compare to others in your team. For instance, you may be asked:

"Can you describe the most significant project you were involved in over the past couple of years?" "What was the size of your team, and how did you compare to the other members?" "Would you provide the most experienced team member or the team leader as a reference?" "What would your reference say regarding your knowledge, experience, and productivity compared to the other members?"

While these questions are not foolproof, they can help uncover inconsistencies in a candidate's claims. Rarely do technical managers express complete lack of skill for a role, and these instances often provide valuable insights.

Addressing the Passivation Excuse

When a non-technical candidate is interviewing for a software engineering position, the first question is often: 'Why are you applying for this post if you are not a CS student?' Eight out of ten candidates may justify their application by stating their passion for programming. Further probing is needed to ensure this passion translates into practical expertise. They may follow up with: 'If you are so passionate about it, why didn’t you join a CS program?' Candidates usually respond with a sheepish smile and then proceed to answer the questions as if they were in a regular CS interview.

Assessing IQ, Aptitude, and Pressure

In most cases, interviewers will also test your IQ and technical aptitude. In addition to skills related questions, they might present puzzles to test your problem-solving abilities, conduct personality tests, or observe how you perform under pressure. These assessments can help determine your suitability for a software engineering role.

For candidates coming from a non-technical background who have already learned the necessary skills, the interview process is no different from a traditional software engineering interview. These candidates will be evaluated based on the same criteria, and the questions will cover similar topics such as technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

While a non-technical background does present certain challenges, it also brings unique perspectives and skills to the table. Interviewers are more concerned with your ability to adapt, learn, and contribute effectively. Prepare by discussing your past projects, demonstrating your problem-solving skills, and showcasing your initiative in learning technical concepts. This approach will help you shine in the interview and increase your chances of success in a software engineering role.