How to Prepare for a Technical Interview – Advice from Bristow Holland’s Recruiters
Technical interviews can feel like a test of nerves as much as skill. Whether you’re interviewing for a developer, data,...
Technical interviews can feel like a test of nerves as much as skill. Whether you’re interviewing for a developer, data, or transformation role, preparation is the difference between surviving and standing out.
Understand What You’re Being Tested On
Every technical interview is different, but most hiring managers want to see three things:
- Can you solve problems logically?
- Do you understand the core technologies?
- Can you explain your thinking clearly?
At Bristow Holland, we see candidates lose out not because they lack knowledge, but because they don’t demonstrate it in the right way. Practice explaining your reasoning out loud that’s often more valuable than getting the “right” answer straight away.
Know the Company and Its Tech Stack
Spend time researching the company’s products, tools, and challenges. Look at recent case studies or projects. If it’s a Suffolk-based tech firm, chances are they’re using modern frameworks but value adaptability and team fit as much as technical expertise.
Ask your recruiter for insight we can often tell you what the interviewers care about most, or which technologies to brush up on.
Brush Up on Fundamentals
Even senior developers get caught out on basics. Expect questions that test your core understanding rather than deep niche expertise. Depending on the role, this could mean:
- Data structures and algorithms
- API design and integration
- Database design and SQL
- Version control and deployment pipelines
- Object-oriented design principles
For data roles, know your statistics, Python or SQL syntax, and the logic behind data cleaning or model selection. For transformation or project roles, prepare to discuss methodologies, stakeholder management, and examples of delivery under pressure.
Prepare Your Own Questions
Strong candidates treat interviews as two-way conversations. Ask about:
- How success is measured in the first six months
- How the team works together day-to-day
- What the company’s next major technical challenge is
This shows curiosity and confidence – two qualities that stand out in every hiring conversation we arrange.
Practice, Don’t Cram
Use mock interviews or coding challenges to sharpen your focus, not to memorise answers. We recommend spending more time explaining what you’re doing than chasing perfection. Employers want to see your problem-solving approach and how you handle uncertainty.
If you’re working with a Bristow Holland recruiter, we can help you rehearse. We’ll run through likely questions, identify your strongest examples, and make sure you present your skills clearly.
Mindset Matters
Confidence isn’t arrogance, it’s calm preparation. Get a good night’s sleep, be early, and bring energy into the conversation. Most hiring managers in the East of England value humility, teamwork, and steady confidence over flashiness. Be professional but personable.
After the Interview
Follow up with a short thank-you email. Reiterate your enthusiasm and one key reason you think you’d be a good fit. It’s a small step that leaves a lasting impression.
Final Thought
A technical interview is not a test of memory it’s a test of mindset, communication, and adaptability. With the right preparation and a clear strategy, you can walk in ready to show not just what you know, but how you think.
For more interview preparation or to find your next tech opportunity, get in touch with the Bristow Holland team. We help professionals across Suffolk and the East of England find roles where they can grow and lead.
