Why Non-technical Questions?

Many nontechnical questions are asked to assess a candidate’s experience and ability to fit in with other employees.

Experience includes your work history and your knowledge. Questions about your experience must be answered carefully and completely to allay any doubts about your ability to perform the job.

For example, suppose you’re asked the question, “Have you ever programmed for Linux?” Your interviewer has seen your résumé, so she probably has a good idea that you haven’t. In effect, the interviewer is saying, “We use Linux — can you do the job even though you’ve never used it?” Don’t lie, but don’t answer “No” if you can avoid it. Instead, emphasize a similar strength: “I haven’t used Linux specifically, but I have done UNIX development.” Even if you don’t have similar or related experience, you can still emphasize your strengths: “I don’t know Linux well, but I’d like to learn it. I’m used to learning new things and I pick them up quickly. For instance, I published my first Android app only four weeks after I started learning the API.” Pay attention to the job description when it’s explained to you. Emphasize any similar and relevant experience that makes you a strong candidate.

Fit is the other key theme of nontechnical questions. Fit refers to how well you can adapt to the organization and become a contributing member. Most people think this just means being a nice person, but that is only half the picture. You must be good at working with others.

For example, suppose you say, “At my last job, I designed and implemented a system to move our HR information gathering to the web all by myself.” This may sound like a positive comment, but it can set off alarms about whether you can and will work with other people. Therefore, you must emphasize the team concept. If you took the lead that’s definitely a point in your favor, but be sure to present it as leading a team, not as working in isolation. Describe how you want to be part of a great team and a contributing team player. Everyone likes hearing the word team — everyone.

Not all nontechnical questions deal with experience and fit. Some of the questions are practical. If the job is located in the San Francisco area and you reside elsewhere, relocation (or telecommuting) needs to be discussed.