What do you do if a non-technical interviewer asks about complex networking concepts?

1 Simplify Terms

When a non-technical interviewer inquires about intricate networking concepts, your first step is to simplify the terms. Think of complex networking ideas like a web of interconnected roads. Just as roads connect various destinations, networks connect computers, servers, and other devices. Instead of discussing specific protocols or algorithms, focus on the general purpose they serve. For instance, instead of delving into the intricacies of the Internet Protocol (IP), you might explain that it's similar to a postal system for computer data, ensuring that information reaches the correct address.

2 Use Analogies

Analogies are a powerful tool to bridge the gap between complex concepts and a non-technical person's understanding. If you're asked to explain something like subnetting, compare it to dividing a large city into districts to better manage traffic and address systems. This paints a clear picture of how subnetting works to organize and streamline network traffic. By using familiar scenarios, you can make abstract networking principles more tangible and easier to grasp for someone without a technical background.

3 Avoid Jargon

One of the biggest hurdles when discussing technical topics is the specialized language. To avoid confusion, steer clear of jargon and acronyms unless you're prepared to define them in simple terms. If you must use technical terms like "router" or "switch," liken them to a mailroom sorting letters or a railway switchyard directing trains. This approach helps the interviewer understand the role these devices play in directing data traffic without getting lost in the technicalities.

4 Focus on Outcomes

When explaining networking concepts, concentrate on the outcomes rather than the technical processes. For example, if asked about network security, discuss how it's like a security system for your home, protecting valuable data from intruders. Highlight the benefits of secure networks, such as safeguarding information and ensuring reliable communication, rather than the encryption methods or security protocols involved. This keeps the conversation on the relevance and importance of network engineering in everyday terms.

5 Engage with Questions

Keep the conversation interactive by asking clarifying questions. If an interviewer seems puzzled by a term like "bandwidth," ask them to think about how many lanes on a highway can affect traffic flow. This invites them to engage with the concept and provides an opportunity for you to gauge their understanding. It also allows you to tailor your explanations to their level of comprehension, ensuring that they follow along with your line of reasoning.

6 Relate to Business

Finally, relate complex networking concepts to business objectives and outcomes. If you're discussing cloud computing, frame it in terms of accessibility and efficiency, likening it to having a virtual office space where employees can access files from anywhere. This helps the interviewer appreciate how network engineering can drive business growth and operational efficiency. By connecting technical concepts to business results, you demonstrate not only your technical expertise but also your understanding of their impact on the company's success.

7 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?