dikshant – Talent500 Blog

Design tips to make your interface layout stand out

Posted on April 29, 2022April 29, 2022 by dikshant

Frontend developers can do more than coding a website. They can create a brand value with the correct use of elements and design in the interface layout or render branding efforts pointless with poor designs. It’s a straightforward ‘make or break’ scenario. Modern UI layout is about interaction design. If your UI designs start to look dull, you might need to learn practical ways to match the function with form. We are sharing some design tips that will help you to create UI layouts that stand out.

Add personality to the UI copy

Users find delight in small details; use them to your advantage. Whether it’s an onboarding screen or a loading message, infusing flair and personality can transform the user experience. Some of the biggest brands like MailChimp and Firebox have humor laced into the copy.

Why would you want to re-approach the content in the UI?-With the right words and a bit of personality in your UI design, you can transform everyday workflow into an engaging experience.

With so much information to provide, the best UI approach is to personalize the content for each user. Google News is an ideal example of how personalization can help brands provide users with the content or features they are looking for without asking for it. Google News relies on a user’s browser history to create their newsfeed. The ‘For You’ section is where stories show up as per the user’s interest. Furthermore, users can edit their feeds by approving or disapproving the stories Google News picks for them.

When you add some scope for personalization in the UI, you enhance customer experience and satisfaction while using your app or website. Even with a minimal choice of taxonomy, you can make your UI design stand out.

Use Illustrations for complex messages

We know how to associate visuals with words and ideas from a young age. The human brain can process visual content 60,000 times faster than text. That is why 90 percent of the information transmitted to the brain is visible.

You can make your UI layout more user-friendly using illustrations. They instantly grab the user’s attention. Furthermore, illustrations explain complex aspects of your application to the user.

But there are a few considerations:

Illustrations must be purposeful
They must be used in addition to the content, not as a replacement
The color and style of graphics must match the overall UI design
Illustrations should be focused and not distracting

Error states are an opportunity

Every website or application runs into errors at times. Rather than letting it be a frustrating experience for the users, provide a memorable experience. But how is that possible?

Chrome did it:

It is exciting to see how both the brands have turned a generally negative experience into a positive one with content and design.

If the designers at these companies can do it, so can you. While we don’t expect you to introduce a hopping T-Rex in the design, some form of engagement and personality can be up swinging for your UI layout.

Create micro-interactions

Micro-interactions are subtle experiences that users don’t expect but appreciate. Some of the biggest companies like Facebook use them to mimic real-world experiences in their applications. For example, take a look at the interaction below:

It is an excellent example of micro-interaction. Facebook users get instant feedback on their actions because of this subtle UI improvement. Also, it enhances their sense of direct manipulation.

If you compare Facebook’s thumbs-up with YouTube’s like button, there is a drastic difference in user experience. Re-evaluate your designs to see where to add the micro-interactions.

Create depth in elements with shadows

One of the reasons your UI layout might look boring is that you forgot the z-axis. Shadows make your designs look more three-dimensional by adding a layer of depth. When elements are placed closely on a smaller screen, depth can be used to create elevation and signify importance. In terms of UI design, it is essential to use shadows to create a hierarchy of the information within the app or website.

The use of shadows must always be purposeful, so it would be best to consider the importance of the elements when adding shadows to them.

Get creative with patterns and gradients

When there is much unappealing content in the design, patterns and gradients can help. Don’t get stuck with unexciting and bland backgrounds. Adding simple patterns and improving with gradients can create an eye-catching and appealing UI layout.

You can be highly creative or subtly minimalistic with patterns. It’s a mix of personal choice and requirements of the design.

Conclusion

The UI design tips we shared focus on improving the experience, not just the design aesthetics. As a UI designer, you must know that apps should have easy functionality and be user-friendly. There’s no point in having an attractive app if it’s not practical and functional.

Talent500 is a platform used by the world’s fastest-growing businesses to build their global workforce. We connect frontend developers with career redefining opportunities at some of the largest global companies. Join our elite pool of talent today to discover exciting career opportunities.

4 tips for writing about hobbies and interests in your CV

Posted on March 31, 2022March 31, 2022 by dikshant

The ‘hobbies and interests’ section in a CV is often overlooked by many candidates, yet it can be quite useful if you know how to present it correctly. While most companies don’t consider hobbies on the same level as work-related experience, there are times when it’s appropriate (and even preferred) to list hobbies and interests on your resume. Depending on your field of choice, It’s important to fully understand how to mention your hobbies and interests on your CV, as they are an indicator of the things you enjoy doing outside of your studies and career. By demonstrating passion and enthusiasm in other parts of your life, you can show that you’re a well-rounded, motivated, and ambitious employee as well.

However, there are certain things you should keep in mind when you write about interests and hobbies in your CV. And some hobbies and interests are more popular than others. Similar to how you highlight your work history, education, and achievements based on the job profile to get a recruiter’s attention, there are effective ways to portray your hobbies and interests in an advantageous manner. On the other hand, mentioning certain hobbies and interests without providing the proper content might have the opposite effect. Here are some tips you should consider while writing about your hobbies and interests:

1. Understand the difference between an interest and a hobby

Though they’re often used interchangeably, hobbies and interests are not the same. In general, hobbies are things you do with a high degree of skill, while your interests are more what you know about. For example, while many people enjoy cricket, they wouldn’t necessarily consider it a hobby. It would be considered an interest rather than a hobby because of their lack of skill in the sport. Hence it might be more beneficial to include more hobbies than interests in your resume since they show a significant investment in terms of time and effort to develop something that is a potential asset or skill.

2. Mention them towards the end of your CV

Though there is no hard and fast rule, it is a safe bet to keep hobbies and interests in the final section of your CV and be listed with a small descriptive sentence for each item. This is because the focus points of your resume should be your work history, education, and achievements. Those are the primary parameters to measure your suitability for the job. On a similar note, It is often ideal to keep your CV to one page, so include only a few strong examples of hobbies and interests that complement the rest of your resume. This will help the recruiter have a fair idea of your prospects as a potential employee at first glance and take note of any hobbies and interests that give a good impression of your personality or attitude.

3. See how your hobbies and interests match with company values

When listing your hobbies and interests, it’s important to keep the employer in mind. While each will reflect your personality in a unique way, when including a CV-tailored list of interests and hobbies on your resume, consider the values and the image of the company you’re applying to. For example, your interest in technological advancement will indicate you are a valued addition to a company interested in artificial intelligence. By showing that you have similar values as the business or corporation, you show that you are a good choice for the job position.

4. Pick those which portray you positively as an individual

Your hobbies and interests serve as a personal introduction when starting your career or applying to a new position. Since you want to make the best first impression, it is wise to avoid mentioning hobbies or interests that might be perceived as unsavory in the eyes of the recruiter. As a general rule of thumb, avoid anything that could be interpreted as violent or dangerous such as competitive boxing, stunt driving, etc. Similarly, it is best not to mention anything that reflects your religious or political beliefs. Ideally, include hobbies and interests that are representative of your positive traits. For example, someone who likes chess or puzzle games often comes across as being intelligent and analytical.

To conclude, the priority of mentioning your hobbies and interests is secondary compared to other important details in your CV such as your qualification and experience. But they could most definitely serve to depict you as someone who is passionate and multidimensional – both of which are traits that most companies look for in candidates. The trick lies in using your intuition to understand which ones are worth including and those which you should keep to yourself.

Looking for exciting remote work opportunities offered by top-tier companies from across the globe? Visit the official Talent500 website to find jobs that match your profile.

6 red flags to watch out for during your job search

Posted on March 31, 2022March 31, 2022 by dikshant

An interview is generally considered to be the initial litmus test by a company for potential employees. However it could also be a valuable opportunity for the candidate to gather some essential information or to spot red flags before its too late. When you’re on the look out for a job opening, it is important to know if you’re a right fit on various fronts – how your work ethic, values and philosophy match with those of the company, the work environment, what the role entails and more.

Paying attention to the information shared by the interviewer could offer a more comprehensive picture of the company than the job description. Sometimes you could be walking into a workplace that is brimming with toxic culture, poor processes, and bad management. That’s why it’s important to look out for these red flags during the hiring process that might indicate that it’s not the best place for you.

1. You only get vague answers to direct questions

Just like you, the interviewer should be prepared to answer any queries related to the role. As someone who is expected to fulfill all the responsibilities and goals associated with the position, you’re entitled to full transparency on the relevant details. This includes accurate information on expectations for the role, procedures involved, reporting managers, benefits, etc.

If you feel like the interviewer is finding it difficult to answer your questions regarding these aspects or is being purposefully vague, this is clearly a potential red flag. Try various means to get a fairly conclusive picture of the company’s culture before you decide to join – For example, check company review sites and forums, find and talk to ex-employees on professional network sites such as LinkedIn, etc.

2. Minimal information shared on the work environment

Listen to how the interviewer addresses your questions about the work environment, such as those about the company values, working hours, etc. Do they seem nervous? Or inarticulate despite their best efforts? It is not unusual for companies to conceal a disorganized work environment and poor management by being ambiguous during the hiring process. Hence it is up to the candidate to be more vigilant and notice any inconsistencies or discrepancies during the conversation with the interviewer.

A company that has a solid grasp on its purpose and a clear plan of action will be transparent about its culture. There will be clearly defined roles and responsibilities for employees. All the important information regarding your role will be communicated fairly well. Even if the hiring manager or recruiter doesn’t have all the answers, they’ll acknowledge what they don’t know and provide you with relevant information later.

3. Poor conduct of the interviewer

A clear-cut hiring process is one of the hallmarks of a company that has its affairs in order. Much like a candidate, an interviewer who is well-prepared and focused will make the interview feel more productive and purposeful. On the other hand, a laborious interview process or an unenthusiastic interviewer might be symptomatic of a poorly managed company.

Essentially, if the interviewer does not respect your time or isn’t interested in listening to you, it is a safe bet that the company places little to no value on the hiring process. They’re just trying to fill a vacancy without considering how the individual fits into the larger picture.

4. Demands that could harm your work-life balance

A good work-life balance is essential for an individual’s long term mental and physical well-being. Organizations that respect their employees will definitely emphasize creating a work culture that helps to maintain work-life balance.

Multiple studies have shown that good work-life balance is also beneficial for the employer as it builds employee loyalty and increases productivity. However, the harrowing reality of today is that a sizable number of companies pursue their own interests without caring about the wellness of their employees. So, in this context, if the interviewer seems keenly focused on talking about company demands that violate your personal space and time, consider it a clear warning signal.

5. Lack of clarity on your job responsibilities

One of the key takeaways from an interview should be adequate details on the responsibilities tied to the job opening. This is essential information for the candidate to gauge if the role suits their skills and career aspirations. Hence, the interviewer is expected to fulfill this duty and answer any related questions that the candidate might have.

Any company that pursues quality talent will ensure that its hiring team has all the right information to proceed. Therefore if an interviewer can’t properly illustrate the job responsibilities, consider it a potential red flag and wise to look elsewhere for employment.

6. Your professional achievements and experience are downplayed

Every individual, regardless of their qualification or experience, deserves respect during an interview. However, though rare, there are unsavory incidences of interviewers belittling a candidates’ profile. This is usually done to undermine the candidate’s confidence during salary negotiation. Any organization with a hiring team that is comfortable with such conduct does not merit your talent or attention.

To sum up, a candidate is entitled to check for compatibility as much as the company. A recruiter who maintains transparency with matters related to your role, more often than not, represents a responsibly-managed company. A flippant or disinterested hiring manager might be evidence to the contrary. To be on the safe side, always do your due diligence to know more about the job opening and spot any of the aforementioned red flags before you decide to take it up.

Talent500 specializes in hiring for world class companies with proven track records. Check our website to know about exciting remote job opportunities from across the globe.

5 reasons to level up your writing skills for workplace communication

Posted on March 31, 2022March 31, 2022 by dikshant

As human beings, communication is essential to our existence within a social setting. The manner in which you use words to convey our thoughts, opinions, ideas and needs to others influences how you’re perceived. Communicating effectively with your friends, family and acquaintances goes a long way in helping to further relationships, your personal development and overall well-being as an individual.

Likewise, clear workplace communication is vital in every industry. Since a fair share of workplace communication involves writing in various forms, being proficient at it will enable you to provide information clearly to your co-workers. Also, If someone at work is unable to articulate their ideas effectively, it’s likely that other employees will find it difficult to collaborate with them. Also, with remote and hybrid work becoming more prominent, the mechanics of workplace communication is changing drastically. Here are specific reasons why you should make an effort to improve your writing skills to become more efficient in a professional environment.

1. Helps to establish credibility

While it is important that your internal communication is properly written, it’s just as important to focus on external communication. If you’re someone at the company who has to deal regularly with clients, it is quite likely that a significant portion of the correspondence usually happens over emails. If the content of your messages is hard to understand, contains spelling errors, or is poorly written, it could put clients off from using your company all together.

For example, think of yourself as being a member of a not-for-profit organization whose mission is human services. You sent out an email update that is riddled with grammatical errors and typos. Current and potential clients who receive it may judge your organization as being incompetent and lacking in professionalism that the sector demands. Hence, It’s important to understand that your workplace communication skills, including your written communication, are some of the primary ways to engage and get clients to take notice of your company.

2. Increases the chance of creating a good impression

Whether you’re writing a proposal, giving a presentation, or communicating with your team, the way you write reflects who you are and how you work. Creating a professional and positive business presence is important in all types of practice. Good writing skills ensure that you are able to portray your thoughts, opinions, and ideas in a clear, concise, and professional way. Therefore, fluency in workplace communication will make your co-workers, managers and even company leaders perceive you as someone who is intelligent, articulate and passionate. This can lead to a better professional reputation, solid work partnerships and faster progression in the workplace.

3. Enables you to provide accurate reviews and feedback

When you’re at a mid to upper-tier position in a company, providing feedback and reviewing others’ work is usually part of the job. Maintaining clarity and precision in what you communicate is of great importance in this regard. When your subordinates have invested sufficient time and effort into completing various tasks, they appreciate clear and to-the-point responses. This is because the quality of the information shared through your feedback often impacts the quality of their work. When the feedback or review is meandering or imprecise, it could potentially create confusion that results in the work getting delayed. Having good writing skills will enable you to be more accurate and keep the workplace communication clear and consistent on your end.

4. Better negotiation during workplace communication

In day-to-day life, having the ability to negotiate well in various scenarios can often save you a lot of time, effort and money. This applies to anything from getting a better deal on a purchase to splitting house chores with your roommate. Essentially, what words you use and how you use them can help to make or break your case, when there is a conflict of interest or a conundrum.

Similarly, negotiations are part and parcel of workplace communication. Whether it is an email campaign, a picnic or an office decision, negotiation is critical for any group project. It is essentially a skill and art, which involves practical tips and methodologies along with psychological insight to succeed professionally. When it comes to negotiating, writing is more advantageous than speaking due to the convenience of being able to put more thought into your words. Hence with good writing skills, you can pick and choose every word to make your arguments sound more convincing and air-tight. This will help you successfully navigate multiple situations and be more impactful at the workplace.

5. More efficiency in asynchronous communication

When you’re working under a remote or hybrid model, the frequency of asynchronous communication is much higher. For companies with globally distributed teams in different time zones, real-time workplace communication such as a virtual meeting is not always practical. As a result, most of the communication happens over direct messages, emails, group chats, etc. This is where the ability to be clear, concise and expressive in your writing comes to play. If you know how to write with an above average level of proficiency, being able to provide accurate updates, briefs, feedback and the like gets a lot easier.

To sum up, a significant number of people are impressed by someone who exhibits flair and style in their writing. Hence, demonstrating competency in this capacity could potentially influence your professional image and progress within a company.

Seeking exciting remote work opportunities to build your career? Visit the official Talent500 website to see what top-tier companies have in store for you.

Trending technologies to add in your resume in 2022

Posted on March 31, 2022March 31, 2022 by dikshant

In all likelihood, 2022 is going to be a monumental year for the world of technology. A plethora of new technologies is taking charge and redefining the digital space at a truly phenomenal pace. Last year marked an exponential growth in people building web and mobile applications for different purposes by using cross platforms such as React Native, Flutter, etc. Apart from that, AR/VR technology has also been rapidly developing, especially with the growing interest of companies such as Facebook, Google, Amazon, and Microsoft in this field. This era-defining makeover is continuously transforming all facets of our lives including the way we communicate, interact with our surroundings, and especially how we function in a professional environment.

With all these changes taking place, there is one pertinent question that pops up in the mind of every professional working in tech-related fields: What are the technologies worth exploring to improve employment prospects in the coming years? Here are some suggestions that will add value to your resume

Machine learning & artificial intelligence

Machine learning and Artificial Intelligence can be applied to different industries in various ways to improve efficiency and optimize processes that previously required human input and supervision. Machine learning in particular is a field of study that gives computers the ability to learn without being explicitly programmed. It has a lot of potential to help companies solve real-world problems and reduce costs. Additionally, the emergence of these technologies has led to the creation of new roles.

With the pandemic, many companies have begun implementing AI, especially in customer-facing processes. Chatbot usage has also grown as customer support teams are stretched thin. These technologies will continue to play a pivotal part in business transformation and recruitment, and 2021 is already seeing the need for highly specialized skills in these areas.

Data science & analytics

The growth and use of data are changing the game for every business. From finance to IT, and healthcare, big data is driving change in how markets operate. In simplest terms, Data Science is the use of machine learning, data, and statistics to get insights and make predictions about the future. Data scientists are the ones leading the way to the future for the corporate world, by helping companies understand their data and use it to make informed decisions.

According to LinkedIn, ‘data science specialist’ as a top “in-demand jobs” in 2022. Also, with the rise of other groundbreaking technologies like AI, Machine learning, Cloud Computing, and Automation, it has become the responsibility of data scientists to stay up-to-date with upcoming trends that can help in achieving faster and better business outcomes.

Blockchain technology

Blockchain is a new and revolutionary way of data storage on the internet. Data is essentially stored in packets called blocks. Each block of data is linked to the previous block, which makes it tamper-proof. It promises to change the way we use the Internet by making almost anything of value sharable without powerful intermediaries standing between the participants in a transaction. Hence Blockchain technology is quickly becoming a must-have skill set across industries.

Currently, It’s primarily used by Bitcoin and many other crypto-assets such as NFTs, but understanding how it works is not only vital for your future career in tech-related fields, but also for a consumer of digital content.

5G

5G technology is set to transform the way we use mobile networks as it promises a higher speed of connectivity and capacity. Companies are pumping lots of investment into the research and development of this technology. One of the remarkable features of 5G is that it enables you to connect multiple devices that require high network bandwidths simultaneously. This fact alone will be a catalyst for so many emerging technologies such as autonomous vehicles, enhanced mobile broadband, the Internet of Things, etc. Such a seismic shift in day to day life of the average person will create avenues for a wide range of new employment opportunities that are based on this technology.

So which one of these technologies should you master and add to your resume? It would be a good idea to pick what suits you based on various factors such as interest level, past experience, and a willingness to learn. Also, it depends on job roles that require a combination of different skills. Another approach would be to do your personal research and identify areas of application for all these technologies in your field of choice. Then choose the one that has the highest probability of taking over your field in the near future.

Trying to stay ahead of the curve in finding remote tech job opportunities in the current job market? Explore exciting options from across the globe with Talent500. Visit our official website to see the latest job updates.

How to prepare for a performance appraisal – 5 things to consider

Posted on March 31, 2022 by dikshant

A performance appraisal is not to be treated as just another mundane event that crops up on a quarterly or yearly basis. It should be viewed as an opportunity for you to highlight your accomplishments and identify areas that need to be developed. Hence it’s important that you prepare adequately and present yourself the right way. If you’ve spent every working hour delivering to the best of your ability, this is the time to show it with confidence.

Just remember how the reviewers assess your performance can have both short term and long term effects on your progress with the company, as well as your career. So give the leaders a comprehensive picture of how you are impacting the company’s growth, contributing to key projects and supporting your colleagues in their pursuits. In the interest of doing this effectively, here are things you should consider before entering and while you’re in the meeting room.

1. Self assess your performance in advance

Keep a weekly log of the tasks you’ve completed and specific goals you’ve met. Before your performance appraisal, review your strengths and weaknesses, as well as other overall contributions that go beyond your daily activities. Take time to reflect on the overall impact you’ve had both individually and as a member of your team. Also think of specific times where you’ve excelled or came through in a crisis. Consider any additional tasks you perform that might go unrecognized. If possible, ask a trusted colleague about your performance so that they might remind you of something you might have forgotten. Based on all these observations, prepare an honest written review for yourself – this will give you the bird’s eye view on what you wanted to achieve, what you thought you could and what needs work.

2. Revisit your last performance appraisal

Once you’ve made the aforementioned personal assessment of your performance, compare it to the last performance appraisal from your company. How does it compare? Look at all the areas you’ve improved this time around. See if you were more or less consistent in meeting goals. Have you lost a step or two in certain respects? If so, try to analyze and figure out the reason behind them. Just in case you’ve fallen short of expectations again in a particular area, be prepared with a solid explanation and plan on how you are going to improve. Also, think about your conduct from the last appraisal and see what you can do to come across as more receptive and engaging this time around.

3. Be conscious of what you say during the review

Speak every word with purpose and conviction when you’re answering questions. Don’t go overboard with your response by adding unnecessary or irrelevant details. See if there is an opening or two to use terms and phrases which are exclusively used in your line of work. In the eyes of the company leaders, this approach demonstrates that you take the business and your work seriously. Most importantly, communicate with a confident yet calm tone. Don’t get emotional if the review board is excessively critical of your contributions. Hear what they have to say and respond in a composed manner.

4. Take criticism with an open mind

Remember that a performance appraisal isn’t a chance for your manager to minimize your worth as an employee. It’s an opportunity to give you the kind of honest feedback that is required for you to keep growing as a professional at this organization. Preparing for a feedback session is critical in order to ensure that you and your manager have a productive discussion. Do your homework by reviewing all of the notes you’ve taken throughout the year, and make sure you’re noting any questions or areas where you feel like you could improve. Your employer is putting time and energy into this process, so make sure you respect that by listening with the right frame of mind.

If you’re well prepared and have a clear picture of yourself as an employee, the performance appraisal could be your avenue to build trust and gain the confidence of your manager and company leaders. It could very well be the spotlight you’ve been waiting for to showcase why you’re someone worth investing in, to help the company reach new heights.

Are you looking for exciting remote job opportunities that offer work-life balance, flexibility and benefits? Check the Talent500 website for the latest remote job updates from across the globe.

Ace your next coding interview with these 5 books

Posted on March 31, 2022March 31, 2022 by dikshant

As tech companies keep on expanding and going global, there is more competition now to land a coveted coding job or even crack a coding interview than ever before. According to Forrester, the global tech market will experience a robust 6% growth in 2022 and 2023. For programmers, passing technical interviews is a big part of being able to take advantage of the newly created opportunities. Coding interviews, in particular, delve deep into the nitty-gritty technical details in varying levels of complexity. Hence a high degree of preparation and proper reference is essential.

In this new decade, the standards of coding interviews are changing fast, and many job seekers don’t know what they should be prepared for. Understanding the way algorithms and data structures work will give you a significant boost in your ability to approach coding problems. These 5 books will teach you all the basics, more than what the interviewer expects. They cover Java, clean code, and object oriented design concepts. Additionally, these books also provide resources for software engineering fundamentals, algorithms and data structures.

1. Cracking the Coding Interview by Gayle Laakmann McDowell

If you are a beginner with little experience in preparing for a coding interview, this book is going to be your best bet. With a plethora of questions and examples from programming interviews, this has become the go-to book for coders across the world because it works. It is written by Gayle Laakmann McDowell who graduated from UPenn with an Honors degree in Computer Science and a Master’s in Engineering from Stanford University.

The book offers an excellent guide to the different types of technical questions asked during software programming interviews, and guides the reader to think about an efficient and elegant solution to these questions. It also offers a nice overview of problems commonly asked on SQL and Java that are relevant for different types of technical roles, such as programmers, analysts, and business professionals.

2. The Algorithm Design Manual by Steven S. Skiena

This book has everything to get you started with the basics of algorithm design and takes you through several complex problems. It offers easy access to combinatorial algorithms technology and lays more emphasis on design over analysis, which gives it an edge over other similar books. The author has included instructions and methods on how one can design and analyze computer algorithms, which are considered to be pivotal in computer science today. It makes the perfect preparation reference for coding interviews or programming competitions.

3. Programming Pearls by Jon Bentley

Coding interviews often require more than knowing logic and algorithms. You must also solve problems with accuracy, robustness, and efficiency—and within very strict time constraints. Luckily, Programming Pearls arms you with a valuable arsenal of problem-solving techniques as well as brick-solid coding basics. This book talks about problem solving, algorithm design, precision and accuracy. It is comparatively older and some of the concepts discussed might seem rudimentary by today’s standards but still is applicable as an excellent resource to prepare you well for all types of coding interviews.

4. Programming Interviews Exposed by John Mongan, Noah Suojanen Kindler, Eric Giguère

The best way to prepare for a coding interview is to evaluate yourself by solving problems. Not everyone has the time or money to practice problem solving with an instructor, yet it’s one of the best ways to prepare for an interview. Programming Interviews Exposed is a great book for coders preparing for interview questions. It offers guidance on the interview processes that are faced by programmers today. As online coding contests are the new norm, programmers need to be well prepared in advance to ace the interview and fight the competition. This book covers a mix of basic to advanced level questions from a range of topics that can help you learn the skills to solve all types of programming problems.

5. Elements of Programming Interviews by Amit Prakash, Tsung-hsien Lee, Adnan Aziz

Elements of Programming Interviews is a book that summarizes the basic and advanced data structures, algorithms, and problem-solving techniques. It comprises various chapters on multiple topics like design principles, coding problems, graph algorithms, etc. This book is a must-read for all software engineers and developers who want to land their dream job and stand out during the coding interview process. It offers an array of tips and strategies for making sure you are fully prepared for every aspect of the interview, as well as a series of coding problems to help you brush up on your skills.

Ultimately, successfully preparing for coding interviews is all about collecting relevant information, examining and identifying means of application in various hypothetical scenarios. It is also important to approach every coding challenge with a mindset that is focused on problem solving.

Are you a highly capable software developer who also values flexibility? Explore a wide range of exciting remote job opportunities from across the globe with Talent500. Visit our official website for the latest job updates.

10 common questions to expect during your remote job interview

Posted on March 31, 2022March 31, 2022 by dikshant

According to our talent survey, 45% of professionals prefer completely remote jobs in 2022. If you’re one of them or intrigued by such opportunities, preparing for a remote job interview should be the top priority. While the process remains more or less the same, the type of questions encountered will be based on what you typically wouldn’t consider in the context of a regular job. And for those who are new to the remote workspace, doing some in-depth research into how the model applies to your field and the employer would be incredibly useful. All that being said, here are some of the questions you should consider to prepare for a remote job interview.

Why do you want to work remotely?

This is one of the most likely questions you’d face during a remote job interview. With this question, the interviewer is trying to understand your primary motivations behind choosing remote work. They will be looking at how the reasons why you want to work remotely relate to those of the company. The aforementioned research into the company, especially its values, will be of great use to adequately answer this question.

Describe your approach to time management during remote work?

This question helps potential employers see how you manage time for various tasks, communicate and collaborate with others. Some companies are very structured about what times employees are expected to be available whereas others might be more flexible. How you answer this question will give them an idea of how you would fit into the overall framework of the company. So remember to assess all these factors before answering the question.

How would you describe your workspace at home?

If a hiring manager or recruiter asks about your home office, be as specific and concrete as possible. Firstly, provide clear-cut details on what your work setup is like. Then, talk about the hardware and software in your workspace and how they will help you to do your job productively. During the remote job interview, you may be asked to show your workspace. So make sure your workspace exudes a sense of professionalism and poise before you attend the interview.

How do you plan to establish a good relationship with the remote team?

When you work remotely, it’s easy to feel disconnected from your coworkers and even disenchanted with your job. That’s why it’s important to maintain good relationships with team members, regardless of time zones or distances. When this question is asked during the remote job interview, talk about how you’ve maintained professional relationships in the past. Then, mention the steps you’d take to attain similar results under the remote model. These could include having conversations with coworkers outside of work, providing timely assistance, participating in recreational group activities online, etc.

What steps do you take to prevent distractions when working from home?

The thing most people don’t realize about remote jobs is that it can be difficult to stay focused when at home. Problems like friends calling for a chat, a sink full of dishes, or children at home from school all need to be accounted for. When you encounter this question during the remote job interview, mention all those distractions you could face and the strategies you would employ to avert them.

Have you worked from home before?

Don’t let this question bother you during the remote job interview if you don’t have any prior experience. The mass adoption of the remote work model is still an ongoing process in many countries. Hence it is not expected that you have all the specifics figured out. However, doing research to demonstrate some understanding of the work model in your answer can be reassuring for the interviewer.

How are you prepared for any net connectivity-related issues?

This is one of those questions that is meant to gauge your level of preparation for the role. Since internet access is an essential aspect of remote work, it is expected that you take all the necessary measures to ensure it all goes smoothly. When you get this question during a remote job interview, use it as a chance to show how proactive and intuitive you are. Mention all the alternatives you could use in case of failure such as backup hotspot devices, nearby net cafes, additional WiFi routers, etc.

Would you mind doing some travel for work if needed?

One of the perks of working under the remote model is to cut out the need for commuting to work. Yet, there can be instances when your physical presence is required. For example, an upskilling convention at a specific geographical location that required mandatory attendance from employees. Essentially, the purpose of this question is to see how willing you would be to travel if the situation demands it.

What are the pros and cons for you when it comes to working in an office?

A question like this during the remote job interview might be a test to assess your attitude towards work. Since you would have worked in a traditional office space recently, the chances are you would bring the same work ethic and mindset to remote work. Hence, take care to evaluate how every pro and con you talk about comes across to the interviewer. Don’t sound drab when listing out the downsides of working in an office.

How much supervision would you require to complete tasks successfully?

If you get asked this question during a remote job interview, don’t lose your composure. Answer it honestly. If you need a lot of guidance, or generally prefer to receive detailed directions for projects and tasks, say so. Then explain how you can get what you need from your remote manager and coworkers, such as by scheduling regular check-ins.

In essence, a remote job interview is not radically different from an interview for an on-site job. The level of preparation required is mostly similar in magnitude. The only distinction is taking time to prepare questions regarding the unique aspects of remote work and how it applies to your field. As long as you’ve done your research on those, you’re good to go.

Now that you know the kind of questions to expect for a remote job interview, check out remote work opportunities that might suit you. Visit the official Talent500 website for the latest updates on remote job openings in world-class companies.

6 soft skills that still impress employers in 2022

Posted on March 31, 2022March 31, 2022 by dikshant

It’s no secret that in 2022, the soft skills that employers value in new hires will be vastly different from those preferred in 2012. But while hard skills like machine learning, business analytics, and touch-typing are important, employers are still looking for some personal attributes in up-and-coming employees. Those that enable them to navigate their work environment, collaborate with others, perform well, and achieve their goals with complementing hard skills.

Employees with such traits are often the glue that holds an organization together. They are often the people who mediate between individuals and teams when there are arguments or clashes, in the interest of keeping everyone motivated and productive. Here’s the roundup of the top 10 things employers want from candidates, and how applicants can display those soft skills during their job searches.

1. Problem solving

Having the ability to use your knowledge to find answers to pressing problems and formulate workable solutions will demonstrate that you can handle – and excel in – your job. A good employee doesn’t try to keep problems from his or her employer. What that shows is a lack of experience and an inability to think on your feet. Use problems as opportunities to demonstrate that you can think quickly and solve pressing problems. Being able to apply this soft skill in various scenarios successfully is what separates the best from the rest.

2. Interpersonal communication

Good interpersonal communication is vital across every aspect of the business. You should be able to use this soft skill to address and engage an audience, as well as show your understanding of a subject when you’re in a meeting or being interviewed.

The most effective communicators present their ideas clearly, efficiently, and with consideration for the audience. The harder thing to prove is that you are not just a good talker, but an effective listener too. it’s not just the ability to communicate your thoughts and experiences effectively to other people, it’s also the ability to listen to what they’re saying to you, and critically understand their needs. Those who exhibit proficiency in this regard are usually handpicked for senior management positions in the future.

3. Leadership

Leadership skills are not just relevant to senior-level staff. They are a must-have across all levels of management and business. Many organizations see the benefits of promoting leadership development because they know that investing in certain employees is equivalent to investing in the company’s future. It is because these employees will use that knowledge and experience to level up the business.

Through their leadership skills, they gain respect from peers and superiors and could inspire them enough to improve their overall productivity and performance. This results in the upper management getting a more engaged and motivated team – one that can handle even the most demanding projects efficiently.

4. Creativity & innovation

Whether it’s coming up with a new idea for your current job or trying something you’ve never done before, innovation and creativity are skills that employers value highly. Being innovative and creative isn’t only reserved for the scientists and artists of this world. Businesses are always looking for candidates who can offer fresh approaches to breaking out established concepts and coming up with cutting-edge ideas. If you can prove that you’re a creative thinker, you’ll stand out and be noticed for all the right reasons.

5. Adaptability

Employers value adaptability in the workplace. Adaptability is a soft skill that employers seek when hiring candidates as it demonstrates your ability to change and develop in order to thrive in an environment. Especially an environment that has unusual circumstances or no explicit instructions. They are able to learn from experience and adjust their actions to situations that require change.

As technology continues to evolve, the need for employees to adapt quickly is more important than ever. Additionally, accepting criticism positively also demonstrates adaptability. Employees who use negative feedback to improve their performance in the future are worth investing in to shape the culture in a positive way.

6. Time management

Managers and executives identify time management as a top soft skill they want in their workforce. Time management skills are important because they help you structure your work in a way that allows you to accomplish goals. They allow you to determine what tasks are most important, and how to leverage your time to complete those tasks while avoiding distractions. In short, time management involves setting specific priorities, then breaking them down into specific, actionable steps. These skills ultimately lead to higher productivity and goal attainment in the workplace.

To conclude, personal skills are becoming increasingly important in the job market. Every day more and more Industries are evolving to be more inclusive, creative, and agile. As a result, employers are looking for candidates with strong soft skills who can work well as part of a team. Backed with the right qualifications and experience, they will be the ones that ultimately succeed in their landing the most coveted positions.

Looking to explore remote work opportunities from across the globe? Top-tier companies are reaching out to us every day in search of capable talent. Visit the official Talent500 website for timely updates on remote job openings.

Job search trends you should know about in 2022

Posted on March 31, 2022March 31, 2022 by dikshant

If you’re looking to stay ahead of the curve, it’s essential to be aware of the job search trends shaping up for 2022. As a result of COVID-19, it has become more critical than ever for companies to take a closer look at their employees’ development. With business travel still relatively curtailed and a hyper-competitive hiring market, companies are turning their focus to developing their employees in new ways and adopting virtual onboarding programs.

One of the biggest changes in job searches over the past decade has been the emergence of technology. It’s now possible to apply for a job, do an interview through video chat, and even sign the offer letter from your smartphone. Technology is improving the way we work and it’s also changing how employers hire candidates. In addition to providing a better work-life balance and an increase in workplace perks, many companies are embracing the gig economy. Learn about these job search trends to know what to expect in the market and improve your chances of landing the perfect job for you.

Increased preference for remote & hybrid work models

While some things are likely to return to normal, our talent survey shows that 45% professionals prefer completely remote jobs and 44% are looking for the hybrid model of work. Location-independent work models are something that all job seekers should consider or negotiate in 2022. The perks offered, such as Improved work-life balance, flexibility and cost saving due to lack of commuting, are incredibly valuable for any professional in any field.

For employers, these models will help to attract top talent and retain employees. Other benefits for employers include increasing retention, offering flexibility to all parties, improving employee engagement and satisfaction, and driving down costs.

Widespread influence of artificial intelligence

As the workplace continues to evolve, so do the job search trends and methods. Many of the systems and processes will be automated for better efficiency as we navigate through the new normal in the world of work. From chatbots to enhanced analytics, the AI revolution continues to march on and will demand workers to have a deep understanding of how these tools work and how to effectively work with them.

AI is particularly valuable for screening candidates due to its automated and data-driven capabilities. The rising popularity of artificial intelligence (AI) for recruiting means that job seekers have to pay more attention to things like resume formatting for ATS (Applicant Tracking System) to make a compelling case for their candidacy.

More emphasis on diversity & inclusion

Since the beginning of the decade, there has been a global cultural shift towards focusing on social justice issues. As a result of this phenomenon, the call for more inclusive and diverse workplaces is becoming increasingly louder year after year. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are more inclined to join an organization that values and respects them as individuals. This job search trend has impacted a variety of fields across international job markets. Hence It’s not enough for companies to just pay lip service to diversity and inclusion.

More companies, who want to be impactful in 2022, are focusing on initiatives that are geared towards attaining these goals in the workplace. This means making revised approaches for recruiting and promoting – to create a diverse workforce that reflects society as a whole. So if you’re someone who was unethically limited in job opportunities due to your identity, 2022 could be the year you’ve been waiting for.

The trend of upskilling will continue

In the current world of work, there is a consensus that employees need to continuously hone their skills in order to adapt to an ever-changing environment. In India, a record high of 79% professionals are looking to upskill themselves in 2022 compared to 70% in 2021.

Whether you’re looking to find better opportunities during your job search or take your career to the next level, an upskilling program will give you the tools you need to learn new skills, add value and keep pace with developments in your sector. The rapid advancements in fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Data Science and Software Development are set to create a wealth of career opportunities in 2022 and beyond. The only way for professionals to be ready for these opportunities is to upgrade their skills and professional knowledge.

In essence, 2022 has the potential to be a seminal year for radical change that will define progress trajectories for careers in various fields. As we can all see, technology is transforming workspaces and the world of work as a whole is moving towards a digital skill-based economy. Keeping an eye on these job search trends will help you stand out and find your dream job in the newly created avenues in the market.

Looking for exciting remote work opportunities in 2022? Visit the official Talent500 website for the latest updates on job openings in top-tier companies from across the globe.