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The Application Task 

Most, if not all, course providers will require you to complete a technical challenge as part of your application. This is common and usually done for 3 reasons: 

1. To filter out applicants who ‘aren’t serious’ or perceive the task as an inconvenience.
   • Bear in mind, these tasks are a drop in the ocean in comparison to the course material.
     
2. To give applicants a taste of cloud tech or programming.
   • To see if it’s really something you’re interested in exploring.
     
3. To guage an applicant’s technical level or studying ability.
   • Note: You will NOT be penalised for having less experience than other applicants. This course is ideal for newcommers.

In my case, the task was 3 python lessons on Udacity, followed by a quiz. If you encounter technical tasks as part of your application, then your course provider is already setting you up for success! It’s not an inconvenience to overcome, it’s instead an opportunity for you to test the waters and grow.

So here are some tips to help you approach your tasks with confidence, and reframe your perception of application tasks.

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1) Don’t be discouraged if the task takes longer than the estimated time

The estimated study/task time is just that – an estimation. If the task is a totally new technical concept, which it likely is for most applicants, it will take you longer to fully grasp it. So take the time you need and don’t panic. As long as you submit before the deadline, that’s what matters.

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2) Use the technical task as an opportunity for self-reflection

Take note of how motivated you felt while doing the task(s). If it’s a coding task, did you enjoy it? If not, think about why. Aversion to the task doesn’t entirely mean that the tech industry isn’t for you. It may be that programing and coding isn’t that enjoyable at this time, or that you’re more suited to another tech role.

However, it must be said that getting comfortable with the idea of coding, or being willing to learn will make you a more versatile and employable candidate.

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3) Keep up with the learning you started during the technical task(s).

You’ve put in work to learn and complete the tasks, so don’t just let the submission be the end of it. Keep at it! Especially if it’s a skill that is sought after, e.g. Python or Java Script. This will help keep you focused and productive during the lengthy application process, as well as provide the added bonus of being evidence you can draw on in the application interview when showing your motivation for joining AWS re/Start.

The Application Interview(s)

The other key stage of this application which may have applicants nervous are the interviews. The interviews will vary across course providers, but some basics will apply across the board. 

Firstly, I’d like to note that if your application has a group task, it is another type of interview setting, centred around a showcase of your personality and soft skills. Soft skills to consider are:

• Collaboration
• Critical thinking
• Creativity
• Communication.

It’s a more casual environment, so no pressure. Just be yourself, but stay mindful that it is still an application stage, so be the best version of yourself. Be polite, and be memorable.

For the main interview, it’s more formally structured, so you can expect typical questions regarding your motivations for applying, as well as a look at your soft skills.

If your interview is on HireVue or another recorded-interview format, you have the benefit of being able to plan and practice.

On the other hand, if you have a live interview, you may feel a bit more pressure. However, you’re afforded the benefit of rapport building with the interviewer. It seems like a minor advantage by comparison, but never underestimate the power of rapport and likeability.

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1. If your interview is submission-based, use that advantage well

So, you have to submit videos on a per-question basis AND more than one take? Congratulations, you’ve officially hit the jackpot. Be sure to plan ahead by noting down key points you want to mention, and use your takes to execute your best delivery.

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2. Let your character and energy shine through

The interviewers/moderators want a glimpse of you as a person, so be sure to showcase yourself. If your energy is your strength, let that shine through. Play to your strengths, stay professional, and don’t underestimate the power of likeability.

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3. Have a basic understanding of AWS and the goals of the cloud

Having a basic understanding of what AWS is and some use-cases will help you better understand your goals, as well as showcase your genuine interest. It will also be invaluable if (or when) you’re presented with an AWS scenario question. You don’t need to be an expert though, so don’t go too deep into it. Just know enough to have a basic grasp.

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4. Know your ‘why’ for starting the re/Start bootcamp

This is something that you should 100% be prepared to share and expect to share. Your ‘why’ should be genuine and expressed in a way that is full of conviction. If you can think outside the box whilst still being genuine, then even better. You want your interviewer to not only see that you really want to be on the programme, but also that you will take full advantage of the opportunity.

Remember how I mentioned before that you should continue studying/upskilling beyond the task stage? Well, this is where you’d mention the continued skill development to show your motivation and passion.

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5. show creativity and resourcefulness for scenario questions

Speaking from my experience of applying through Generation, one of the questions addressed how I would use AWS to roll-out an initiative.

What really helped me was thinking about something inline with my interests, and then trying to use AWS and tech to achieve that goal. From my experience of doing degree-level research, I also made sure to highlight a key potential challenge and solution to show my critical thinking.

Summary

• Application Task Stage:
  • When it comes to finishing the technical task, completing it purposefully and on-time is the key.
  • Use the task as an opportunity to evaluate your motivation and interests.
  • Continue to learn beyond the scope of the task, and develop your skills to get ahead with career development.
    
• Application Interview Stage:
  • Be yourself, but be the BEST version of yourself.
  • Critical thinking and collaboration are the key with group tasks.
  • Know your ‘why’ for applying or transitioning to cloud tech.
  • Let your character shine through and never underestimate the power of likeability.
  • Have a basic understanding of AWS.