Why this matters:
Knowing the fundamentals of Android development should be the bare minimum for a candidate, but interviewers can still learn about a candidate from how well they’re able to explain the essential concepts underlying Android applications. The answer to this question demonstrates the candidate’s depth of understanding of their work.
What to listen for:
- Explanation of key components: Linux Kernel, libraries, Android framework, Android applications
- Discussion of development best practices
- Citation of specific experience with Android architecture
Why this matters:
Emulators allow developers to test their applications using the same interface a customer would use. Knowledge of how emulators work demonstrates that a candidate has experience with the tools used in best practices for development and has a rigorous workflow, which will enable them to produce high-quality apps.
What to listen for:
- Description of proper use of emulators within development
- Explanation of the importance of emulators
- Discussion of experience with emulators
Why this matters:
Every Android project, while seeking to develop a distinct product with its own features, relies on a common set of tools and frameworks, which have been shared by numerous developers. Knowing how these tools work, and what they’re used for in each project, can demonstrate a deeper understanding of Android architecture and the development environment.
What to listen for:
- Discussion of how to set up an Android project
- Reference to AndroidManifest.xml, build.xml, and other key items
- Explanation of the importance of XML-based layouts
Why this matters:
Just as writing is rewriting, coding is debugging. Once a piece of code has been put together, there’s undoubtedly going to be some parts that aren’t functioning as they should — or as the client wants them to. This is where developers need to be able to run their own tests and figure out the source of the error and how to correct it.
What to listen for:
- Familiarity with debugging software and techniques
- Ability to pinpoint errors in code from resulting bugs
- Capacity to quickly fix errors once identified
Why this matters:
Clients and developers need each other, but sometimes communication can be difficult. At times, clients aren’t sure exactly what they want, but they expect developers, being more involved in the world of apps, to be able to figure out the details. In such cases, developers need to lead clients in the process of articulating what would be best for the project.
What to listen for:
- Ability to outline a project independently
- Capacity to communicate in order to clarify points of confusion
- Adherence to best practices of development
Why this matters:
Java is the main language of Android development. However, developers need to be versatile and capable of learning new programming languages when necessary, since mobile development is a quickly shifting environment. Developers with this capability are more competitive as candidates — and make their clients more competitive.
What to listen for:
- Familiarity with multiple languages and libraries
- Capacity to pick up new languages relatively quickly
- Ability to apply lessons learned to daily work
Why this matters:
Developers often seem like lone wolves, putting together code in a black box that only they can understand. But app development is in fact a highly collaborative process, with many skilled professionals contributing to the finished product. The answer to this question shows a candidate’s experience working on a team and ability to make positive contributions.
What to listen for:
- Strong collaboration skills
- Effective communication strategies
- Powerful problem-solving abilities
Why this matters:
Along with collaboration comes the feedback process, as work comes under review and needs to be finessed to meet the needs and standards of the organization. Being able to take feedback — whether regarding one’s code, one’s collaborative efforts, or other aspects of one’s work — distinguishes candidates for an Android developer role.
What to listen for:
- Ability to receive constructive feedback
- Self-improvement based on constructive criticism
- Drive to continually improve work
Why this matters:
Often, developing apps has to be done under strict deadlines or with intense pressure due to budget or other constraints. At times, this can feel overwhelming. Android developers with the ability to maintain a high quality of work under pressure offer greater assurance to the company that they will be able to produce the best products possible.
What to listen for:
- Ability to work well under pressure
- Knowledge of how to prioritize tasks
- Capacity to handle multiple responsibilities
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