The Interview Process Sucks (Sometimes)
Pointless questions, not actually speaking to candidates, reading from a checklist, lying etc
Over the years I’ve had many interviews, almost more interviews than i’ve had hot meals, okay maybe not but I’ve had quite a lot!
The Chippy
My first interview was when I was 17, my sister knew a guy, who knew a guy, who knew a guys cousins roommate ex-girlfriend’s best friends father. The interview itself was carried out in a chip shop…
The job was serving burgers and chips at a theme park. The guy who won the contract to sell the food also owned several nearby chip shops. He called me up and asked me to pop by for a chat.
“Can you wash pots?”
“Can you serve food?”
And that was pretty much it. I’d never had an interview before, so it felt more like a casual conversation. I think he just wanted to see if I had the right personality and temperament to serve chips and wash plates (I guess I did!).
It might sound a bit silly, but honestly, it was one of the best interviews I’ve ever had. It wasn’t scripted and it was straight to the point.
P.S - that’s not me in the photo, I’ve no idea who they are but they look happy.
The Red Flags
We’ve all been there: sitting across from an interviewer, trying to sidestep obscure technical questions that have zero relevance to the job, or listening to them ramble on about how incredible their company culture is.
So, what exactly makes for a bad company during the interview process? Let’s break it down, shall we?
“We’re Family”
Unless your boss is Vin Diesel or you're working at a family-run business, work is not your family. Being told you’re part of the “family” can sometimes signal a culture where personal boundaries are blurred and employees feel pressured to sacrifice more than they should.
An exaggerated sense of loyalty can create an environment where you’re expected to work around the clock, without the proper recognition or boundaries. You’re there to do a job, not to be someone’s long-lost cousin.
“Fast-Paced Working Environment”
If the interviewer starts harping on saying things like “fast-paced,” “work fast and try not to break stuff,” or “we get stuff done” it’s worrying.
What they’re really saying is they’re cutting corners and rushing projects. That might sound fine, but if they’re not paying down the technical debt, things could end up falling apart.
Ask about how they manage this “fast-paced” environment. If their answer doesn’t leave you with confidence, then my advice is simple—run. You don’t want to be stuck in a position where you're constantly fixing problems because they couldn’t take their time to do things properly in the first place.
A Drawn-Out Interview Process
If you find yourself going through an endless loop of interviews, it could be a sign of inefficiency or poor organisation. Sure, some companies want to make sure they get the right fit, but too many rounds of interviews can signal that the company can’t handle its hiring process, let alone manage other parts of its operations.
An excessive number of interviews might also signal a lack of respect for your time. If they can’t get it together to streamline their hiring process, what makes you think they can handle your future workload?
Generic Interview Questions
Don’t get me wrong, you need to start with some generic interview questions to get the ball rolling, but ideally, based on your responses, they should adjust their line of questioning. This way, the interview feels more like a conversation, allowing them to actually get a better sense of who you are.
Questions like "What is your biggest weakness?" or "Where do you see yourself in five years?" are as generic as they come, they’re probably reading off a checklist. My main gripe with these questions are that they can be completely rehearsed to the point where they hold little or no value.
They don’t really help you stand out, and they certainly don’t provide much insight into the actual job. Also, questions that are completely irrelevant, like “If you were suddenly transformed into a fish, what would you do?” are just downright annoying.
The answer by the way is…
If you’re asked these kinds of questions, it’s probably a sign that the company is more focused on ticking boxes than actually getting to know you and your skills.
Lack of Transparency
When a company is vague about the specifics of the job, growth opportunities, or compensation, it’s a major red flag. If they can’t be clear about basic details like team dynamics, management style, or why the position is open, it suggests a lack of organisation or potential internal conflict.
When a company is hiding information like this, it could point to high turnover rates or unresolved issues in the workplace. If they’re not upfront during the interview, it’s unlikely that things will be any clearer once you’re hired.
No Growth Opportunities or a Non-Existent Dev Culture
Imagine joining a gym where the weights max out at 10kg. Sure, you can work with it for a while, but growth and progress are going to be a struggle.
Without clear paths for advancement or a dev culture that encourages learning and innovation, the company likely sees you as just another cog in the machine. If they don't care about your growth, it's time to move on.
If a company offers no room for growth or doesn’t invest in professional development, i’d think twice.
Resistance to Change
If you get a sense that an organisation is resistant to change, it could indicate a lack of innovation and an unwillingness to adapt to industry trends.
If they’re still using PHP 5.5.9 in 2025, you’ve got to ask yourself why that’s the case.
Imagine working in a place where every new idea is met with the same response: “We’ve always done it this way.” This kind of attitude can stifle progress and make your job feel like one giant uphill battle.
If you're passionate about bringing fresh perspectives and driving improvements, this is the last place you want to be.
Lack of Communication
If the company is slow to communicate during the interview process, it might be a sign of disorganisation or lack of respect for your time. Poor communication at this stage could translate to similar issues once you're on the job.
No Formal Offer
A formal offer letter is not just a formality—it’s a crucial document that outlines the terms of your employment, including salary, benefits, and job responsibilities. Without one, you’re left in limbo, with no concrete agreement. If a company can’t manage this basic step, it’s a huge red flag.
Without a formal offer, you’re essentially working without a safety net. If they can’t even get this right, why risk it?
Too Pushy
I’ve been caught out by this one. After receiving a job offer, I asked for a few days to review it. What followed was an angry response: “We need to know today. If you haven’t decided by tomorrow, we’ll move on to other candidates.”
Under pressure, I hastily accepted the offer. It ended up being one of the worst job experiences I’ve ever had. Don’t let anyone pressure you into making a decision on the spot. If they push too hard, you’re probably better off walking away.
Imagine accepting an offer that just isn’t right for you? Where it feels like your head is being jammed in a lift whilst a set of rather large men are kicking you in the shins and you’re being forced to watch James Corden carpool karaoke with P. Diddy?
Don’t rush your decision. Beats the alternative.
The Green Flags
Hey, it’s not all doom and gloom—there are GOOD companies out there! But how do you distinguish the good from the bad (and the ugly)? Well…
The Company Respects Your Time
A company that respects your time makes timely responses to interview scheduling and provides clear communication about the next steps. This isn't just about efficiency—it's about professionalism and consideration. When they handle the hiring process promptly, it shows that they value their employees’ time and productivity once you're onboard.
Job Description Isn’t Outrageous
The job description should focus on the actual job at hand, outlining key responsibilities and essential skills, rather than listing every skill known to mankind. I’ve seen junior development roles with job descriptions that read like they’re for technical leads, which sets unrealistic expectations. A good job description offers a clear, honest overview of the role, highlighting what’s really needed.
Workplace Is Diverse and Inclusive
A truly inclusive workplace doesn’t just throw around buzzwords—it actively creates an environment where all employees feel supported and valued. From policies to practices, inclusivity means offering equitable opportunities for advancement and genuinely respecting each individual’s contributions. It's a sign that the company is for real and not just offering empty promises.
Interviewer Asks Follow-Up Questions
When an interviewer asks follow-up questions, it shows they're genuinely interested in understanding whether you're a good fit for the role. This approach turns the interview into a conversation, reflecting a workplace culture that values open dialogue and adaptability.
For example:
You: "I've recently been learning something new after work."
Interviewer: "Oh, really? What are you learning? How do you find time?”
See the difference? It’s all about engagement.
Interview Feels More Like a Conversation
An interview that feels more like a natural conversation than an interrogation is a great sign. This means the company values genuine interaction and doesn’t just want to check boxes. You’ll have a more authentic back-and-forth exchange where you can talk about your skills and experiences in a relaxed way.
Plenty of Growth Opportunities and Career Progression
A great company fosters an environment where you’re not just doing a job, but advancing your career. This includes clear pathways for promotion, ongoing training, and opportunities to build new skills. Imagine working for a company where every challenge is a chance to grow—sounds like a dream, right?
There’s Emphasis on Work-Life Balance
A company that truly cares about work-life balance provides flexible hours, remote work options, and encourages you to unplug outside of work hours. They understand that you need time for family, hobbies, and self-care. This kind of support promotes a sustainable and enjoyable work environment where you’re not always on call.
They Rarely Need to Hire
When a company rarely needs to hire, it’s a good sign of stability. It indicates that they invest in their employees, create a positive work culture, and provide opportunities for growth. A low turnover rate shows the company is well-managed and successful, offering a supportive atmosphere for all.
Interview Process Is Smooth
A smooth interview process leaves a great impression and reduces candidate stress, allowing you to focus on showcasing your skills. When the process flows seamlessly, it reflects a company that manages its hiring effectively and respects the effort you bring to the table.
As Ace Ventura would say: "Like a glove!"
It’s Well-Paid
A company that offers a fair and competitive salary demonstrates that it values its employees and recognizes their worth. A well-paid role motivates employees to perform their best and shows the company is committed to maintaining a satisfied and productive team.
P.S.—if the job description mentions a "competitive salary," it probably isn’t. Make sure the actual amount is clear.
Excellent Perks
Beyond the basics, great companies offer perks that show they truly value their employees. These might include comprehensive health benefits, generous retirement plans, wellness programs, and opportunities for professional development. And while pizza every other month isn’t a perk, don’t turn it down unless it’s got pineapple on it...
It’s A Two Way Street
Don’t forget it’s your chance to interview them too. You should definitely figure out if they’re the right fit for you too.
I’ll finish off with a few questions you can ask them:
Can you describe the company’s long-term vision and goals?
Understanding the company’s strategic direction helps you gauge whether your career aspirations align with their objectives. It also reveals how your role will contribute to the company’s future.
Follow-up Questions:
How does this role fit into the company's long-term goals?
What are the key milestones or projects that the company aims to achieve in the next few years?
How does the company handle technical debt and prioritise tech improvements?
This question uncovers how the company manages its technical challenges and ensures the sustainability of its technology stack. It shows whether they proactively address tech debt or only react to issues as they arise.
Follow-up Questions:
Can you provide an example of a recent tech debt issue and how it was resolved?
How often do you review and address technical debt?
What does a typical day look like for someone in this role?
This question helps you understand the daily responsibilities and expectations, providing insight into the role’s routine and whether it matches your preferences.
Follow-up Questions:
What are the main tasks or projects I would be working on daily?
How much of the day is spent on [specific task or responsibility]?
Can you describe the company’s approach to documentation and knowledge sharing?
Effective documentation is crucial for maintaining clarity and continuity within a team. This question reveals how the company values and manages documentation practices.
Follow-up Questions:
How is documentation maintained and updated?
What tools or platforms does the company use for knowledge sharing?
What are the biggest challenges the company has faced recently, and how have they been addressed?
Understanding recent challenges provides insight into the company's resilience and adaptability, and it helps you assess if you are prepared to face similar issues.
Follow-up Questions:
How did the company overcome these challenges?
Are there any ongoing issues that the team is currently working on?
What qualities or skills does the ideal candidate for this role possess?
This question helps you assess if your skills and attributes align with what the company values most for the role.
Follow-up Questions:
Can you give an example of how these qualities contribute to success in this role?
How do you measure success in this position?
What opportunities for professional growth and development are available within the company?
Knowing about growth opportunities helps you understand how the company supports career advancement and whether there are pathways for your future development.
Follow-up Questions:
Are there any specific training programs or mentorship opportunities available?
How do employees typically progress within the company?
How does the company support work-life balance?
This question is crucial for understanding the company’s culture and how they prioritise employee well-being and balance.
Follow-up Questions:
Are there flexible working hours or remote work options?
How does the company handle work demands during peak periods?
What is the team structure, and who would I be working closely with?
Understanding the team dynamics and who you will interact with regularly helps you assess how well you might fit into the existing team structure.
Follow-up Questions:
How are team roles and responsibilities defined?
Can you describe the team’s working style and communication practices?
What kind of onboarding and training processes are in place for new hires?
Effective onboarding and training are crucial for a smooth transition into a new role. This question helps you understand how well the company supports new employees.
Follow-up Questions:
What does the onboarding process include?
Are there any ongoing training or development programs?
How does the company measure and evaluate employee performance?
Understanding performance metrics and evaluation processes helps you know how your work will be assessed and how you can align your goals.
Follow-up Questions:
What are the key performance indicators for this role?
How often are performance reviews conducted, and what do they typically involve?
What is the company culture like, and how does it influence day-to-day work?
Understanding the company culture gives you insight into the working environment, values, and social dynamics. It helps determine if the culture aligns with your own values and work style.
Follow-up Questions:
How does the company support a positive and inclusive culture?
Can you provide examples of how the culture has impacted recent projects or initiatives?
How does the company stay competitive and innovative within the industry?
This question sheds light on the company’s approach to staying relevant and leading in its sector. It shows how proactive they are about innovation and industry trends.
Follow-up Questions:
What recent innovations or initiatives has the company implemented?
How does the company gather and incorporate feedback from customers or industry developments?
What are the current priorities or key projects for the team I would be joining?
This question helps you understand the immediate focus of the team and how your role would contribute to current objectives. It provides clarity on what to expect if you join the team.
Follow-up Questions:
How do these projects align with the company’s overall goals?
What role would I play in these projects, and who will I be collaborating with?
What is the company’s approach to handling work-related stress and employee well-being?
This question is important for understanding how the company supports employees in managing stress and maintaining overall well-being. It reflects the company’s commitment to a healthy work environment.
Follow-up Questions:
Are there any specific programs or resources available for managing stress?
How does the company support employees during high-stress periods or workload peaks?
What if their answers aren’t good enough?
If the interviewer isn’t sure of the answer or gives you some generic lip service, something like: “Erm... yes, this is something we’re aware of and it’s something we need to do better,” it’s clear they don’t really know how to answer. Imagine if you did that?!
What should you do if they give poor answers?
Good question. Well, nothing unless you get a job offer. Then, you need to consider if it’s the right move for you (sometimes you’ve got no choice—after all, money pays the bills at the end of the day).
These tips have been pulled from my book - How To Survive The Tech Industry: A Handbook. Available from Amazon and from various E-Book stores. For my information, visit https://techsurvivaltips.com/