Best way to interview

Ive had a number of chats recently with people about asking me about the best way to interview a software engineer. Whats best for speed/engagement?

I figured i’d write this up as businesses may get something out of it.

Of course – there are many different ways that work, but based on candidate feedback, this way has been really popular;

1) Face to face interview first, both a tech hiring manager & Talent/HR. Questions on motivations, ‘what do you know about us’ and tech questions on the candidates recent projects.

2) Short at-home coding challenge – hackerank or a challenge written up by the business (not IKM or challenges that go back to candidates Uni days!). Keep it current or based on your own tech stack.

3) Final face to face which includes a pairing coding challenge which is a continuation of the challenge the developer did at home! This is with a senior developer from the business.

The candidate drives the pairing exercise and comes up with different ways they could have done things if they had more time?

This is a great way for the candidate to see how the companies Senior Developers work, but also for the company to gage interaction & communication. After this, a short chat with another Mgr/CTO.. Pls message me if you have any questions or want to chat. Thanks!