How do you handle stress in a programming interview?

1 Know what to expect

One of the best ways to reduce stress is to know what kind of programming interview you will face. Different companies and roles may have different formats, such as online coding tests, whiteboard sessions, pair programming, or behavioral questions. Research the company and the position, and ask the recruiter or the hiring manager about the interview process and the skills they are looking for. You can also use online platforms, such as Glassdoor, to find out what other candidates have experienced and what kind of questions they were asked.

2 Practice your skills

Another way to handle stress is to practice your programming skills and improve your confidence. You can use online resources, such as LeetCode, HackerRank, or Codewars, to solve coding challenges and learn from other solutions. You can also practice your communication skills by explaining your code out loud, or by doing mock interviews with a friend, a mentor, or a coach. This will help you get used to the pressure, the feedback, and the questions that may arise during the interview.

3 Manage your time

Time management is crucial for a programming interview, as you may have to solve multiple problems or write code within a limited time frame. To manage your time effectively, you should have a strategy for approaching each problem, such as breaking it down into smaller steps, choosing the right data structures and algorithms, and testing your code for edge cases and errors. You should also keep track of the time and prioritize the most important or difficult tasks. If you get stuck, don't panic, but ask for hints, clarify the requirements, or move on to the next problem.

4 Relax your mind and body

Stress can have an impact on both your mental and physical health, so it is important to take care of yourself and practice some coping techniques before and during the interview. To relax your mind and body, ensure you get enough sleep, eat well, and stay hydrated. Additionally, doing some physical activity such as walking, stretching, or yoga can help release tension and increase your energy. Furthermore, you can try deep breathing, meditation, or listening to soothing music to calm your nerves and focus your attention. Finally, smiling, laughing, or joking with the interviewer can create a positive rapport and make the atmosphere more comfortable.

5 Learn from your experience

Finally, you should remember that a programming interview is not only a test, but also a learning opportunity. No matter how well or poorly you think you did, you should always reflect on your experience and identify your strengths and weaknesses. You can also ask for feedback from the interviewer or the recruiter, and use it to improve your skills and prepare for the next interview. You should also celebrate your achievements, reward yourself, and appreciate your efforts.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?