AI instead of LeetCode as a round? Not sure what to think

Date : September 1, 2024
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AI Instead of LeetCode as a Round? Not Sure What to Think

In the ever-evolving landscape of tech hiring, the traditional coding interview format is being challenged in fascinating ways. Recently, I found myself in a unique situation during a hiring process, where I was presented with two options for one of the interview rounds: the classic LeetCode test or a coding challenge that involved AI assistance. As someone who has had less-than-stellar experiences with LeetCode in the past, I was intrigued by the AI option. Here’s a breakdown of my experience and some thoughts on this emerging trend.

The Setup: A Choice Between Two Worlds

When presented with the choice, I decided to go with the AI-assisted coding challenge. My previous encounters with LeetCode had been stressful, often leaving me frustrated and anxious under pressure. The prospect of engaging with an AI felt refreshing—perhaps it would offer a more interactive and less intimidating experience.

The AI Experience

The challenge began with a conceptual question: “How would you approach building a scalable messaging system?” This was an intriguing prompt that allowed me to demonstrate my thought process and design skills before diving into actual coding. My answers were met with AI-generated feedback, which opened up a dialogue rather than a one-sided interrogation typical of many coding interviews.

After discussing the conceptual aspects, I transitioned to a related coding challenge. The AI provided support throughout the process, with an option to request hints. Although I didn’t use this feature, knowing it was available was reassuring. The entire challenge took about 30 minutes, during which I felt more at ease than I would have in a traditional live coding interview.

Why AI Might Be the Future of Tech Interviews

While I would still prefer a face-to-face interview with a real person—where I can read body language and engage in a more dynamic conversation—this AI experience was a breath of fresh air compared to the conventional coding tests. Here are a few reasons why I think incorporating AI into the interview process could be beneficial:

1. Reduced Anxiety

Many candidates experience performance anxiety in live coding interviews. The pressure of someone watching your every move can lead to overthinking and freezing up. With AI, there’s an element of anonymity and reduced pressure, allowing candidates to think more clearly and express their thought processes without fear of judgment.

2. Enhanced Learning Opportunities

AI can provide instant feedback and hints, promoting a learning experience rather than merely assessing a candidate’s ability to recall syntax. This can help candidates demonstrate their problem-solving skills and adaptability, which are often more critical than rote memorization of coding tricks.

3. Flexibility and Accessibility

AI-driven interviews can be more flexible in terms of timing and format. Candidates can take their time to think through problems, which is a stark contrast to the often rigid and time-constrained nature of traditional coding tests.

Community Thoughts

The community response to such innovations in the hiring process has been mixed. Some commenters on my initial post expressed skepticism, suggesting that it might not bode well for companies if they rely on AI over personal interviews. Others shared their own positive experiences with alternative technical assessments, such as using platforms like Test Dome, where candidates are allowed to use documentation and resources to solve problems.

One commenter mentioned the discomfort of live coding interviews, noting that they tend to freeze when under scrutiny. They preferred the flexibility of platforms that allow for research and a more reasonable timeframe for answers.

Conclusion

As we navigate the future of technical interviews, it’s clear that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. While AI-assisted interviews may not replace traditional methods completely, they offer an alternative that could alleviate some common pain points in the hiring process. I found the experience to be engaging and less stressful, and I believe there is potential for companies to harness AI tools to create a more candidate-friendly environment.

Have you gone through a similar experience with AI in interviews? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

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