The technical interview process is shifting. AI tools like ChatGPT and GitHub Copilot are becoming standard in the software engineering toolkit, and hiring managers are adjusting how they evaluate candidates based on that and other factors.
To break down what’s happening in interviews right now, Course Report hosted a live Q&A with career coaches from leading coding bootcamps, including Vinny Sanfillippo, who leads Hack Reactor Career Services.
Here’s a snapshot of what the panelists covered:
1. The interview structure is familiar, but with more flexibility
The overall shape of the tech interview process hasn’t changed much; it still involves screening, interviewing, assessing, and then hiring. But companies are more flexible in how and when they assess candidates. Some start with projects before interviews, while others combine rounds. But what’s consistent is this: you need to show how you think, how you code, and how you communicate.
2. You’ll be asked about AI
Hiring teams want to know how you’re using AI tools. During interviews, you may hear questions like:
- “How have you used ChatGPT in a recent project?”
- “What’s your go-to AI prompt when you hit a wall?”
Be honest. Show curiosity. Talk about how AI has supported (and not replaced) your thinking and creativity.
3. Communication skills are still vital
While AI is impacting everything from coding tests to screening tools, the hiring process still favors those who can explain what they’ve built and why. As Vinny put it, “If you can’t explain your code, it’s obvious it wasn’t really yours.”
4. Assessments are more realistic
Take-home projects and collaborative exercises are becoming more common. These tasks reflect what engineers do, and they give candidates a chance to show their ability to follow directions, solve problems, and work in a modern software engineering environment.
5. Hack Reactor grads are ready for this moment
If you’ve gone through a Hack Reactor coding bootcamp, you’ve already practiced pair programming, project-based learning, and technical interviews. You’ve built real-world apps, used AI tools, and learned how to speak confidently about your work. These are the skills hiring teams are looking for in 2025.
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Whether you’re preparing for your first technical interview or reentering the job market, understanding how the process is evolving will help you navigate it with clarity and confidence.
Visit the Course Report site to watch the full panel discussion.