Interview Day Checklist

Before the Interview

Preparation (1-2 weeks before)

  • Review your resume and prepare to discuss all projects in detail
  • Prepare 5-7 STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories covering different scenarios
  • Review common SQL patterns and optimization techniques
  • Practice explaining A/B test design for 2-3 different scenarios
  • Prepare thoughtful questions for your interviewers about the team and role
  • Research the company culture and recent news
  • Review the job description and prepare examples of how your experience matches

Technical Review (3-5 days before)

  • Review statistical concepts: hypothesis testing, confidence intervals, p-values
  • Practice SQL queries: JOINs, window functions, aggregations
  • Review product sense frameworks and case study approaches
  • Practice behavioral questions using STAR method
  • Review common analytical pitfalls and how to avoid them

Day Before

  • Confirm interview time, format (virtual/in-person), and logistics
  • Test your video/audio setup for virtual interviews
  • Prepare your interview space (quiet, well-lit, professional background)
  • Lay out professional attire (even for virtual interviews)
  • Get a good night’s sleep
  • Prepare a backup internet connection if virtual

During the Interview

Setup and Mindset (15 minutes before)

  • Arrive 10-15 minutes early (log in early for virtual)
  • Have water nearby and use the restroom
  • Take deep breaths and maintain positive mindset
  • Review your prepared stories and key points one more time
  • Turn off notifications and close unnecessary applications

Throughout the Interview

  • Listen carefully and ask clarifying questions when needed
  • Think out loud to show your problem-solving process
  • Structure your answers: Context → Approach → Analysis → Recommendation
  • Use data and evidence to support all recommendations
  • Be honest about uncertainties and assumptions
  • Stay calm and professional even when stuck

Technical Questions

  • Break down complex problems into smaller, manageable parts
  • Verify your understanding before diving into solutions
  • Consider edge cases and potential data quality issues
  • Explain your thought process clearly
  • Ask about constraints and assumptions

SQL and Technical Problems

  • Start with understanding the data schema and relationships
  • Write clean, readable code with proper indentation
  • Test your queries with sample data
  • Explain your query optimization choices
  • Consider performance implications for large datasets

Product and Analytical Questions

  • Clarify the business context and success metrics
  • Structure your analysis approach before diving in
  • Consider both quantitative and qualitative factors
  • Propose multiple solutions when appropriate
  • Discuss trade-offs and limitations

Behavioral Questions

  • Use STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result
  • Focus on your specific contributions and impact
  • Be concise but provide enough detail
  • Show self-awareness and growth mindset

After the Interview

Immediate Follow-up

  • Send thank-you emails within 24 hours
  • Reconnect on LinkedIn if appropriate
  • Note key takeaways and areas for improvement
  • Update your interview tracking spreadsheet

Reflection and Learning

  • Review what went well and what could be improved
  • Research any technical topics you struggled with
  • Practice similar problems to build confidence
  • Update your resume based on the experience

Common Interview Formats

Phone Screen (30-45 minutes)

  • Focus: Basic technical questions, behavioral
  • Preparation: Have resume ready, practice phone communication
  • Tip: Stand up and smile to sound more confident

Virtual Interview (45-60 minutes)

  • Focus: Technical problems, case studies
  • Preparation: Test camera/audio, ensure good lighting
  • Tip: Use external keyboard/mouse for comfort

On-site/Panel Interview (Multiple rounds)

  • Focus: Deep technical dives, team fit, leadership
  • Preparation: Bring notebook, water, extra copies of resume
  • Tip: Take notes on interviewers and their questions

System Design Interview

  • Focus: Scalability, trade-offs, technical architecture
  • Preparation: Study common design patterns
  • Tip: Ask about constraints and requirements clarification

Emergency Preparedness

Technical Issues

  • Have backup device ready
  • Know how to restart video call
  • Have phone number ready for audio fallback
  • Test connection speed

Personal Emergencies

  • Know when to reschedule if you’re not feeling well
  • Have emergency contact information ready
  • Prepare excuse for unavoidable interruptions

Unexpected Questions

  • Practice “I don’t know but here’s how I’d approach it”
  • Have examples of when you learned something new
  • Know how to redirect to your strengths

Final Reminders

  • Be yourself - Authenticity matters more than perfection
  • Show enthusiasm - Passion for data and problem-solving is key
  • Ask questions - Shows engagement and strategic thinking
  • Follow up - Thank-you notes can make the difference
  • Learn from each experience - Every interview is a learning opportunity

Remember: The interview process evaluates your ability to solve real problems, communicate effectively, and learn continuously. Stay curious, stay calm, and trust in your preparation.

Good luck! 🚀

15 mins Beginner