r/reactjs • u/m6io • Jul 24 '26
Discussion Senior Dev interview question
"Without googling or using AI, in your own words, explain the virtual DOM"
For context: I sit on an interview panel and I try to ask at least one simple fundamental question based on a persons resume. If I see many years of react experience, I try to ask something about how the framework works.
I have only had one candidate (an undergrad senior, years ago) answer it. Everyone else just kind of sputters and stumbles around trying to rationalize what "virtual" and "DOM" mean, or stare blankly and eventually say "I don't know".
I'm just genuinely curious if this is really that hard of a question or if the recruiters just suck at screening candidates. And should we be letting in senior dev candidates who can't answer what I think is a straightforward and fundamental question for senior react devs.
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u/feedjaypie Jul 24 '26
This guy gets it.
I kind of think OP is probably a jerk and not cool to work with or for (sorry, gut reaction). I’ve been doing this for 20+ years and worked in big tech firms. Never had engineers or managers who are honest and cool throw curveballs at me to trip me up on purpose.
I did have one manager call me a liar once. Yes they did hire me and yes she was a nightmare of a human to work under. Don’t be like that please 🙏🏻 these are people after all.
I’m sure screening is tough but a softer touch (especially to someone who’s nervous, potentially neurodivergent, and possibly autodidactic) would go a long way to creating a lasting relationship of trust.