WHY NONTECHNICAL QUESTIONS?

Nontechnical questions are often asked to assess a candidate’s experience and ability to fit in with other employees.

Experience includes your work history and your knowledge. Questions about your experience must be answered carefully and completely to allay any doubts about your ability to perform the job.

For example, suppose you don’t have Linux development experience and you’re asked the question, “Have you ever programmed for Linux?” Your interviewers have seen your résumé, so they probably have a good idea that you haven’t. In effect, the interviewer is saying, “We use Linux—can you do the job even though you’ve never used it?” Don’t lie, but don’t answer “No” if you can avoid it. Instead, emphasize a similar strength: “I haven’t used Linux specifically, but I have done UNIX development.” Even if you don’t have similar...