Ask HN: Front End Dev Interview Questions
I have an interview next week, and have found a ton of questions through generic, interview-question searches. However I figure HN knows better...
If you are interviewing for a junior level position, I would mostly be prepared to describe applications you have created, included side projects. You will likely be given some application and work with the interviewer to design/implement it. Usually you can and should ask them questions and make it as much of a dialogue as possible. Many companies will expect you to actually write code in an interview, so be prepared for that. Usually this is in the language of your choice, but I would at least be prepared to do things in javascript as this is a front end position, and every front end person should understand javascript.
I don't really know for more senior roles, but I would imagine you'd be asked more "big picture" questions like what are the advantages/disadvantages to various web frameworks, why you would use one over another in various example applications. Also, perhaps how you would work to architect/possibly design some front end application.
Also, obviously know your resume- make sure that any languages/skills/frameworks on there you actually know and be prepared to talk about all your experience on there.
I've found that if the person interviewing you knows what they're talking about, you'll spend most of the interview discussing you're overall philosophy, future goals, and how you'll fit in with the company because they've already reviewed you code and determined you have the skills they need (that's why they brought you in).
If they're not sure on what exactly it is you do, prepared to discuss hows & whys of things you've done, and brush up on your buzzwords and industry lingo.
Overall, prepare to discuss your process (how you approach, plan and execute a project).
How do you handle a very aggressive deadline? Do you push for a more realistic timeframe or cut corners to get it out the door and go back and fix it (no right answer here, btw :)).
Are you comfortable working with someone else's code/framework? When should you write your own javascript, and when should you use a framework? Why JQuery instead of Prototype (or vice versa)?
Be able to defend your decisions (without getting defensive,that's a big red flag) and articulate your position. Don't wear a suit (unless it's a law firm or somewhere where everyone wears suits). Bring a few copies of your resume. Above all, relax. If you got in the door, chances are it's your job to lose :)