Preparing for competency-based interviews (90 minutes)

Goal: To prepare for competency-based interviews.

• Read and complete the recommended exercises in this guide: The Ultimate Guide to Competency-Based Interviews as a Software Engineer.
• Create a spreadsheet for each of the two templates described in the article. For the first template, write about at least one project. For the second template, write at least one answer to each question.

Read this job description (30 minutes)

Goal: Read the following job description thoroughly as you’ll need it in class

Read this job description:

TechComp is redefining the future of collaboration in the workspace. We are creating a world where people come together effortlessly and enjoyably. Our technology powers products and services that bring modern, uncompromised collaboration to everyone – spanning every room, desk, pocket, and application. Industry-leading products like TechComp Teams, TechComp Meetings, TechComp Meeting Server, and TechComp Collaboration Meeting Rooms are examples of our technology in action.

What you’ll do

• You’ll be part of a cross-functional team to build and improve TechComp’s next-generation meeting management web application.
• You’ll work in an Agile, collaborative environment to capture requirements, propose software designs, follow through with implementation, and iterate in response to feedback.
• You’ll employ TechComp’s Design Thinking to create delightful products for our users.
• You’ll work across the entire stack, from the backend to the front end and all in between.
• You’ll create everything from mockups and UI components to the business logic and data structures.
• You’ll ensure the software is delivered to the highest quality through code reviews, writing of unit and integration tests, and working closely with Test Engineers.

Who you are

• You have a technical degree or equivalent experience with a strong foundation in computer science fundamentals.
• You have a proven track record of personal and academic achievements.
• You are highly motivated and have a passion for creating awesome products.
• You are a flexible individual who can quickly adapt to new challenges and requirements.
• You thrive on collaboration, working side by side with people from diverse backgrounds and disciplines.
• You are a strong communicator, both written and verbal.
• You can apply a scientific approach to solving complex problems.
• You are motivated by challenges and continuous learning.

Required Skills:

• You are familiar with programming languages and web frameworks like Python, Django and JavaScript.
• You know application and web development in HTML and CSS.
• You have an understanding of, or experience with, Agile software development methodologies.

Why TechComp?

• At TechComp, each person brings their unique talents to work as a team and make a difference. Yes, our technology changes the way the world works, lives, plays. and learns, but our edge comes from our people.

• We connect everything – people, processes, data, and things – and we use those connections to change our world for the better.

• We innovate everywhere – from launching a new era of networking that adapts, learns, and protects, to building TechComp Services that accelerate businesses and business results. Our technology powers entertainment, retail, healthcare, education, and more – from Smart Cities to your everyday devices.

• We benefit everyone – we do all of this while striving for a culture that empowers every person to be the difference, at work and in our communities.

• Colourful hair? Don’t care. Tattoos? Show off your ink. Like polka dots? That’s cool. Pop culture geek? Many of us are. Be you, with us! #WeAreTechComp

• P.S.: Try to identify key elements in the job description and think about how you can highlight your relevant skills and experiences in your CV. Remember to bring your printed CV to the class.

Source: Junior Software Engineer (Media) Job in Hanworth (adzuna.co.uk)

Write a resume summary (30 minutes)

Goal: To write a resume summary

Write a resume summary: 

• Review your general CV and start tailoring it to the needs of the job description from the previous exercise - focus only on the summary.
• It’s at the top of your resume, so it is one of the first things a hiring manager sees. Use it to showcase your most relevant skills and accomplishments based on the keywords you highlighted. 
• Include the job title to which you are applying, proving that this is a personalised CV.