Interview Prep
We Want You To Be Successful
ARE YOU SCHEDULED FOR A PHONE OR VIDEO INTERVIEW?
HOW SHOULD YOU PREPARE FOR YOUR INTERVIEW?
Interview Advice
A: Do what’s most comfortable for you, as long as the interviewer can hear you clearly. Avoid using speakerphone, as it can make it harder for the interviewer to hear you. If you need to be hands-free, we recommend using earbuds or a headset so you can easily take notes if needed.
A: Please test your technology and network beforehand, ideally the day before the interview. Ensure you participate from the same location where you tested and prepared. If your interview involves a camera, microphone, or internet, confirm that everything is functioning properly. Conduct a dry run or two with a friend to ensure everything works smoothly. If your phone cuts off or you get disconnected, don't panic—simply call the interviewer back.
A: We recommend sitting or standing in one spot. If you are walking around, it can be distracting. In addition, find a quiet location with the fewest number of distractions. If you do not have your own home office space, choose a space that is clean and professional-looking. Don’t overcomplicate it though, this can be your dining room, bedroom, or even an oversized closet space.
A: Social media is filled with stories and videos of our new ‘coworkers’ interrupting our meetings and stealing our lunches. In general, most interviewers will understand if something unexpected happens but if there are constant disruptions, noise, etc. interfering with your ability to focus, or their ability to hear you, you might not be putting your best foot forward.
Try your best to identify a date and time in which you can sit down and focus in a quiet space. If you are at home, let everyone know in advance that you will be using this space for an interview, the time of the interview, and that the space is off-limits during that time.
A: It's normal to feel nervous. Reflect on what went well, what could be improved, and how you can better prepare for your next interview. Research best practices and practice them regularly, as preparation is key.
If you find yourself getting nervous or drawing a blank during the interview, let the interviewer know that you are excited about the opportunity but feeling a bit nervous. Being transparent can help the interviewer understand your situation and may provide you with a bit more time to respond to questions.
A: It’s best practice to send a follow-up email within 24 hours of your interview. In your message, thank the interviewer(s) for their time and express your appreciation for the opportunity. Also, let them know you are available for any additional questions they may have. If someone else coordinated the interview, be sure to thank them as well.
Interview Tips
First, relax. Take a deep breath.
We want your interview to go just as well as you do!
- Our interviews are behavioral based, consisting of open-ended questions to evaluate your technical abilities, work experience and behavioral traits.
- Be familiar with General Dynamics Mission Systems.
- Be able to explain how you meet and exceed the job requirements.
- Use every opportunity to help yourself stand out and sell your skills.
- Bring examples of any (non-proprietary) work products, samples, etc.
- Come prepared with questions and make sure to ask them.
- Turn your experience into stories. Explain how what you did in the past relates to what you can do for us.
- For Veterans: have 7-9 "success stories" that can help you explain how your military experience relates to a corporate job.
- Be on time – allow yourself a little extra time in case any issues arise.
Common Questions During Interviews
General Questions:
- What is the strongest attribute that you bring to the table?
- Describe the last team that you worked on and your role in it.
- What did you like and not like about your last company?
- For a recent college graduate, what was your favorite class and why? What was your least favorite class and why?
- What is your definition of accountability?
- What has been your biggest success story to date?
- Why do you want to work for General Dynamics Mission Systems?
- How do you ensure that your work is the highest quality?
- How do you define project requirements and how do you make sure they are realistic?
- Explain how you reason through problems when you don't know the answer right away.
- Tell us about a time you received feedback which indicated you were not meeting expectations.
- Describe your ideal work environment.
- What work experience have you had that prepares you to be successful in this position?
Technical Questions:
- Explain a few significant differences between C++ and Java.
- Pick a project that you can discuss in detail and had a significant role on.
- What was the worst problem you had with this and how did you fix it?
- How much reuse do you get out of the code you develop?
- Explain a time when you were able to improve upon the design that was originally requested.
