JUNIOR LEVEL

How do you stay updated on new technologies and keep your skills current?

Sample answer to the question

To stay updated on new technologies and keep my skills current, I regularly read technology blogs and news websites. I also follow industry influencers on social media platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter. Additionally, I attend webinars, online courses, and workshops related to networking and IT. I make it a point to join relevant professional groups and attend conferences and networking events to connect with peers and learn from their experiences. Lastly, I enjoy experimenting with new technologies in my free time and setting up a lab environment to practice and explore.

A more solid answer

To stay updated on new technologies and keep my skills current, I employ a multifaceted approach. Firstly, I regularly set aside time for focused self-study, where I delve into technical documentation, whitepapers, and online tutorials specific to networking. I also make use of platforms like Coursera and Udemy to take relevant courses. Secondly, I actively engage in professional development by attending industry conferences and networking events. These opportunities provide a chance to learn from experts, discuss emerging trends, and explore real-world networking scenarios. Furthermore, I leverage online forums and communities to participate in discussions and share knowledge with like-minded individuals. Lastly, I allocate time for hands-on experimentation with new technologies. I set up a home lab where I can configure networking devices, simulate different network topologies, and troubleshoot common issues. Through this holistic approach, I ensure that I am continuously learning and adapting to new technologies while effectively managing my time and priorities.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer expands on the strategies mentioned in the basic answer and provides specific examples of how the candidate has implemented these strategies in the past. It also emphasizes the candidate's ability to effectively manage their time and priorities. However, it could be improved by including more details about the candidate's experience with networking technologies and how they have applied their knowledge in practical scenarios.

An exceptional answer

Staying updated on new technologies and keeping my skills current is a priority for me as a network engineer. In addition to the strategies mentioned earlier, I actively seek out opportunities to work on real-world projects that incorporate cutting-edge technologies. For example, in my previous role, I volunteered to assist the senior network engineer in implementing a software-defined networking (SDN) solution for a client. This involved researching SDN principles, configuring network devices, and troubleshooting potential challenges. By participating in this project, I not only gained hands-on experience with SDN but also developed a deep understanding of its benefits and limitations. Additionally, I am an avid follower of industry thought leaders and engage in discussions on specialized forums to stay ahead of emerging trends. By continuously enriching my knowledge and expertise, I ensure that I am able to provide innovative solutions and contribute effectively to the success of any networking project.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes beyond the strategies mentioned in the solid answer and provides a specific example of how the candidate has applied their knowledge of networking technologies in a practical project. It also highlights the candidate's passion for staying updated on emerging trends and their commitment to continuously enriching their knowledge and expertise. However, it can still be improved by providing more details about the specific technologies the candidate has worked with and the impact of their contributions to the project.

How to prepare for this question

Stay up to date with industry trends by regularly reading technology blogs, news websites, and following industry influencers on social media platforms.
Participate in webinars, online courses, and workshops related to networking and IT to gain new insights and learn from experts in the field.
Join professional groups, attend conferences, and networking events to connect with peers, discuss emerging trends, and explore real-world networking scenarios.
Allocate dedicated time for self-study and experimentation with new technologies. Set up a home lab to practice and explore different network configurations and troubleshooting techniques.
Seek out opportunities to work on real-world projects that incorporate cutting-edge technologies. This will provide hands-on experience and deepen your understanding of their practical applications.

What interviewers are evaluating

Eagerness to learn and adapt to new technologies
Time management and prioritization