Why We Don’t Have Technical Interviews for Technical Roles at Buffer

Technical interviews have long been a staple of the hiring process in the tech industry. However, a growing number of companies are questioning their effectiveness and exploring alternatives.

The traditional technical interview often involves whiteboard coding, algorithm puzzles, and time-pressured problem-solving. While these methods can assess certain skills, they may not accurately predict job performance.

The Problem with Traditional Interviews

Studies have shown that traditional technical interviews often favor candidates who are good at interview preparation rather than those who would excel in the actual role.

Alternative Approaches

Progressive companies are adopting various alternatives: pair programming sessions, take-home projects, trial work periods, and skills assessments that mirror real work scenarios.

The Buffer Approach

At Buffer, we’ve moved to a process that emphasizes real-world work. Candidates work on actual projects, collaborate with team members, and demonstrate their skills in authentic situations.