Job Interview: Should I ask company about possible topics for interview?

manpreet Best Answer 2 years ago

I have a half day technical interview as a data scientist in the coming week but I was not told what the topics will be. Also the job description is a arch-typical generic data science description involving:

• Databases
• Machine Learning
• Statistics
• Algorithms
• Cleaning
• Map/Reduce

Would you consider it a good idea to reach out to the company and ask what the interview will be focussed on?

manpreet 2 years ago

Would you consider it a good idea to reach out to the company and ask what the interview will be focused on?

In general, asking what will be the focus of the interview wouldn't be a good idea.

It's hard to imagine the prospective interviewer responding with anything useful. Basically, they'll be asking you questions to see if you are capable and willing to perform the job they are filling. And they'll try to see if you are a good fit for their company culture.

Asking about the focus will signal to them that you are new to professional work and haven't been on interviews. Of course you are new to work and you haven't been on interviews, so it may not hurt you too much to come across as a newbie.

Still, I wouldn't bother. I can't imagine any reply they would give could help you. It's extremely unlikely for them to give you something with which you could cram ahead of time.

Instead, research the company carefully, read and understand the job posting, and prepare a few great questions to ask during the interview. Then, just be yourself and let your capabilities and your enthusiasm show through.