Do you want to work for Apple? Here are some value added tips for Apple interviews that apply to any job search and interview process.
Keep in mind that great design jobs are far and few between, and competition is tough. In a dog-eat-dog world, only the strong endure the rejection and criticism inherent in the interview process, and it's the downright tough that persevere to attain, eventually, the job of their dreams. These pointers will help you run the gauntlet of interviews and survive to become an employee. You may not land a gig next to Steve Jobs, but more importantly, you will have a job.
Questions to Expect from Apple:
From the oddly personal to the highly technical, the interviewers at Apple will ask you a number of questions and expect concise, detailed, honest answers from you. Your personal life is fair game; don't be surprised when questions about your extracurricular activities or general health pop up. These questions come directly from people who interviewed for a number of positions at Apple.
"How would you investigate a technology without letting anyone know you were investigating it?"
Secrecy is paramount at Apple. Be ready to describe your research process directly.
"Describe the manufacturing process for some of the components in an iPhone."
Technical ability is necessary for a variety of engineering jobs, and Apple expects the best from its engineers. Study up on product engineering or have an existing passion for all things Apple to meet success!
"Implement a Fibonacci series in Java."
Yikes! Experienced software engineers only need apply.
"Why aren't you going to work at the place you interned?"
Organizational loyalty is something all companies will look for, and Apple specifically prizes company devotion and wants to know if you're a flight risk.
Tips for Any Job Search:
Be a user of the company's product:
Hiring and training new employees costs companies a lot of money. As an enthusiastic user of the company's product, you bring with you a passion for the product and a working knowledge of how it is used and marketed. This tells any company that you are likely to stick around and sincerely care about your job.
Think about your role in the company, not just the company:
Even if the company itself is great, it is possible that the job is not the right fit for you. Both you and the company will eventually be unsuccessful if you are unhappy at your long-term job.
Be aware of corporate culture:
Apple is an amazing company to work for, but it is also cut throat. If your work is better and more productive in a nurturing environment, Apple is not the company for you. Ultimately, you'll be most successful in a context that best suits your work-style.
Be patient!
If you are dead-set on working for Apple, you must be patient. It's a popular company and there are often delays of many months. If the job you are applying for at any company is, in fact, your dream job, be ready to make certain concessions to achieve your dream. Smaller companies can't always afford to pay what larger corporations pay, but the trade-off is working at a job for a company you love.
Use these tips to your advantage to land a great design job, whether at Apple or a different company! You have the knowledge and skills at your fingertips, go forth and be successful!....
Mike Barbre Intermedia
