Navigating Interview Assignments: Should You Build a Full-Fledged Chat System in 5-7 Days?

Carefully consider your options when faced with an interview assignment that requires you to build a full-fledged chat system within a strict timeframe. This article provides insights and advice to help you make an informed decision.

Research the Company Thoroughly

There are numerous instances of companies that use interview assignments as an opportunity to get work done free of charge. These fraudulent practices aim to exploit the willingness of aspiring professionals to provide free labor by seeking opportunities in the name of employment.

Before agreeing to the assignment, it is essential to research the company extensively. Look for reviews on Glassdoor or other professional platforms. Pay particular attention to any reviews that suggest the company makes candidates do their work for free. If even one such review is found, it is best to decline the offer.

Moreover, you might want to try connecting with a current or former employee to verify the company's authenticity. If there is any doubt, proceed with caution. Consider your options and weigh the risks versus the potential benefits.

Consider the Legitimacy of the Company

While it is true that some well-known companies like Google and Microsoft may have a rigorous interview process, it does not guarantee that every candidate will receive extensive time. The primary focus at these large corporations is to assess the candidate's capabilities and effort within the given constraints.

From a practical standpoint, it is highly unlikely that a programmer can complete a full-fledged chat system from scratch in just 5-7 days. However, you can demonstrate your ability to tackle complex projects and manage time effectively. The interview assignment is an opportunity to showcase your skills.

The company is more likely to be interested in your architecture, coding style, and what you have achieved rather than the entire system. Transparency and thoroughness will be key factors in their assessment.

Evaluate the Assignment Thoroughly

Ensure the assignment aligns with the company's professional standards and lacks any indicators of fraud. Here are steps to evaluate the assignment:

Check for submission requirements: If the assignment involves submitting code on a public platform, it could be a red flag. Avoid such assignments as the code will be visible to anyone and might be misused.

Contact the company: If possible, reach out to the company for more details or clarification. This can help you understand their expectations and intentions.

Develop and deploy your own version: If you are unsure, you can develop the chat app and deploy it. Send them the app link and indicate that you will share the code after the interview. This approach will not cost you anything and can add value to your portfolio.

Ultimately, the decision to accept the assignment should be based on the legitimacy of the company and the opportunity it provides to learn and demonstrate your skills. If the company is reputable, you can take the assignment as a valuable learning experience and a chance to showcase your abilities.

All the best in your decision making and professional development!