What interview questions do you need to prepare for in application support roles?

1 Technical Questions

The first type of questions you can expect are technical questions that assess your knowledge of the applications you will be supporting, and the tools and methods you will use to diagnose and resolve issues. For example, you might be asked to explain how an application works, what are its main features and functions, how it interacts with other systems or components, and what are the common errors or bugs that occur. You might also be asked to demonstrate your skills in using tools such as SQL, logs, debuggers, or ticketing systems, and to perform some tasks or scenarios related to application support, such as querying a database, analyzing a log file, or reproducing an error. To prepare for these questions, you should review the application specifications and documentation, practice using the relevant tools and commands, and familiarize yourself with the typical issues and solutions.

2 Problem-Solving Questions

The second type of questions you can expect are problem-solving questions that evaluate your ability to analyze, troubleshoot, and resolve application issues. For example, you might be given a description of a problem reported by a user or a client, and asked to identify the possible causes, steps, and solutions. You might also be asked to explain how you would prioritize, escalate, or document the issue, and how you would communicate with the stakeholders involved. To prepare for these questions, you should use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, and provide specific examples from your previous experience or projects. You should also demonstrate your logical thinking, attention to detail, and creativity in finding solutions.

3 Communication and Customer Service Questions

The third type of questions you can expect are communication and customer service questions that measure your ability to interact with users, clients, and other team members in a professional and courteous manner. For example, you might be asked to describe how you would handle a difficult or angry customer, how you would explain a technical issue or solution to a non-technical person, or how you would collaborate with other support staff or developers. You might also be asked to showcase your written and verbal communication skills by writing an email, making a phone call, or presenting a report. To prepare for these questions, you should emphasize your soft skills, such as listening, empathy, patience, and clarity, and use positive and respectful language. You should also highlight your customer service mindset, such as being responsive, proactive, and flexible.

4 Behavioral Questions

The fourth type of questions you can expect are behavioral questions that probe your personality, work style, and values. For example, you might be asked to tell about a time when you faced a challenge, a conflict, or a failure in your application support role, and how you dealt with it. You might also be asked to share your strengths, weaknesses, goals, or motivations for working in application support. To prepare for these questions, you should use the STAR method again to provide concrete and relevant examples, and show your self-awareness, learning, and growth. You should also align your answers with the company culture, mission, and values, and express your enthusiasm and interest for the role.

5 Scenario-Based Questions

The fifth type of questions you can expect are scenario-based questions that simulate a real-life situation or task that you would encounter in your application support role. For example, you might be asked to participate in a role-play with the interviewer or another candidate, where you act as an application support specialist and they act as a user or a client who needs your help. You might also be asked to complete a practical test or a case study, where you have to perform some application support tasks, such as debugging, testing, or reporting, using a specific tool or platform. To prepare for these questions, you should practice your technical and communication skills in a realistic and time-bound setting, and follow the instructions and guidelines given by the interviewer. You should also demonstrate your initiative, confidence, and professionalism, and ask clarifying questions if needed.

6 Questions to Ask the Interviewer

The sixth type of questions you can expect are questions to ask the interviewer at the end of the interview. This is your opportunity to show your interest and curiosity for the role, the company, and the industry, and to clarify any doubts or concerns you might have. For example, you might ask about the application support processes and procedures, the tools and technologies used, the team structure and culture, the training and development opportunities, or the expectations and goals for the role. To prepare for these questions, you should research the company and the role beforehand, and prepare a list of relevant and insightful questions that reflect your enthusiasm and fit for the position.

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?