Ace your Y Combinator interview - S2020

Time of the year again where startup founders are preparing hard to get into Y combinator.

Having been part of Y combinator W2020 batch, wanted to share our YC interview experience and 5 tips to crack YC interviews

Tip #1: The Problem

You should be able to explain what you are building and what problem you are trying to solve in laymen terms; keep it super crisp and simple

Most startup ideas aren’t unique and there would some other famous startup (Maybe in the US/EU) doing the same thing. Therefore, if you able to convey it with a X for a Y, your idea will be more relatable (Eg: we are building a Doordash for India)

Bonus tip: Write down all your answers, record your mock interview sessions, improve your pitch…repeat.

Tip #2: Practice, Practice and Practice

Practice your answers again and again until you can do it in your sleep. Reach out to YC alums for mock interviews, seek feedback from your founders, even your friends/family.

Tip #3: Get used to Zoom 

Given the unprecedented times, we all need to adapt to online interviews. Please practice mock interviews over Zoom. Your body language is going to be super important, be energetic and enthusiastic throughout. 

Bonus tip: Get a good webcam and speakers. It is going to be difficult given the lockdown but try to be resourceful and get yourself a good piece of tech. You do not want to tech to work against you.

 Tip #4: Metrics

Know your metrics, you should be able to explain the market size is a very easy and understandable way. Absolute numbers don’t matter but growth / traction is. Try to showcase traction via examples.

Tip #5: Keep calm

Getting a Y combinator interview invite is a big milestone in itself, so give yourself a well deserved pat on the back. Now, be calm, don’t get rattled and be truthful during the interview. YC panels will grill you and are super efficient in detecting bull shit. The 15 min interview is going to be stressful but put in the hours in practice, trust your preparation, you will do well.

Final thoughts

YC has been the best thing that has happened to us and all YC partners, alumni are super helpful. Good luck to all for your YC interviews and if you need a mock interview, do drop me a note. Happy to help!