LAkshay Phadké’s career in tech has been anything but easy.
From turning an internship at Ericsson into a full-time software engineering role to landing a job at Microsoft, Phadké’s success is a testament to his hard work and persistence.
However, his journey wasn’t without its setbacks.
He faced numerous rejections from major tech companies like Meta, Amazon, Dropbox, and Yelp. Despite these challenges, Phadké has come out stronger, with valuable lessons that can guide others through their interview journeys.
Here are three critical interview strategies he wishes he had known earlier, backed by his experience as both a candidate and a technical interviewer.
1. Showcase Your Personality—It’s Not Just About Writing Good Code
Many candidates in the tech industry are heavily focused on perfecting their technical skills.
While this is undeniably important, Akshay Phadké stresses the need for candidates to also let their personality shine through during interviews.
“Your interviewers are your peers, and they may become your teammates,” Phadké notes.
“They’re trying to understand not just your technical expertise but also what kind of person you are and how well you’ll fit in with the team.”
He suggests that candidates take advantage of moments before and after technical rounds to share aspects of their life outside of work.
These interactions can give interviewers a sense of who you are beyond just your qualifications, helping to create a connection that could set you apart from other candidates.
2. Prioritize Clear Communication, Even in Technical Rounds
While technical proficiency is essential, Phadké points out that clear communication is equally important, especially during technical interviews.
“It’s crucial to ask clarifying questions and ensure everyone is on the same page,” he says.
“Don’t just type away silently; communicate your thought process, and even explain your solution at a high level before jumping into code.”
Phadké also highlights the importance of listening during interviews.
Often, interviewers will provide subtle hints or feedback during technical rounds.
Acknowledging these inputs and adjusting accordingly shows that you’re receptive and adaptable—a key trait in any successful team player.
A well-structured code with clear comments, according to Phadké, speaks volumes about your clarity of thought and ability to communicate through your work.
3. Approach Interviews as a Two-Way Street
One of the most important lessons Phadké has learned over time is that interviews are not just for employers to evaluate candidates, but also for candidates to assess whether the company and the role align with their goals.
“Your interviewers are trying to gauge your technical fit, but you should also be evaluating if this company and role are the right fit for you,” Phadké advises.
“Interviews should be a conversation where both parties assess mutual compatibility.”
As Phadké’s perspective evolved, so did his approach to interviews.
He now encourages candidates to ask tough questions about the company’s culture, financial health, product roadmap, and any other aspects that could impact their career trajectory.
By shifting the dynamic from a one-sided evaluation to a balanced conversation, candidates can reduce anxiety and ensure they’re making informed decisions.
Conclusion: Rejection Isn’t the End—It’s a Learning Opportunity
Akshay Phadké’s experiences with rejection from top tech companies were disappointing, but they ultimately served as stepping stones toward personal and professional growth.
By embracing failure as a learning experience, Phadké encourages others not to be discouraged by setbacks.
“Rejections are a part of the interview process,” he says.
“In fact, you often learn more from them than you do from successes. They shouldn’t make you feel lesser—they’re just part of the journey.”
Through his journey, Phadké has learned the importance of showcasing personality, communicating effectively, and treating interviews as mutual assessments.
These strategies not only increase your chances of landing a job but also help ensure that the role you accept aligns with your personal and professional aspirations.
By following these interview strategies, you’ll be well-prepared to face the challenges and opportunities that come your way in the competitive tech industry.