5 min. read

Jan. 3, 2025

Recruiters share 7 logistical preparation tips for your AWS in-person interview

How to set yourself up for a more comfortable and confident interview experience.

By the Life at AWS team

A man and a woman walk through the common space of an Amazon office. They are holding their laptops and talking as they walk side-by-side.

At Amazon Web Services (AWS), we want you to succeed in your interview. While technical preparation is crucial, mastering the logistics can make a big difference in your interview experience.

Thorough preparation extends beyond just practicing your responses – it includes ensuring you're physically and mentally ready for the day ahead. With these tips in mind, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the practical aspects of your AWS in-person interview, allowing you to focus on showcasing your skills and potential.

Below, AWS recruiters share their top logistical preparation tips for ensuring a smooth and successful interview day. By paying attention to these details, you'll set yourself up for a more comfortable and confident interview experience.  

1.

Partner with your recruiters

Recruiters are your allies in the interview process. They will share preparation materials with you leading up to your in-person interview, along with links to other helpful Amazon and AWS careers-related content. Review these materials as early as possible so you can ask clarifying questions either before your interview day or prepare well thought-out questions to ask your interviewers.

“Speak with your recruiter and read through provided preparation documents so you know what to expect,” said Christy Stevens, a technical recruiter.
 

2.

Understand your interview structure

Amazon’s interview process is transparent, but that doesn’t mean it’s predictable. Candidates might find additional assessments or styles that are unique to certain teams or roles, so make sure you’re clear on the structure when you discuss preparations with your recruiter.

“I recruit for specialty roles including applied scientists and UX designers. These roles have a technical bar that differs from other job families and roles at Amazon, therefore a lot of project and research work is completed through whiteboarding sessions and portfolio showcasing,” Stevens said.
 

3.

Expect a full day

Emily Barbero also recruits for science and design roles within AWS's Utility Computing organization. She reminds candidates that an interview loop is always a long day and recommends coming prepared for that. The scheduling team does their best to pepper in breaks, but sometimes sessions will be back to back.

"I encourage my candidates to be vocal about their needs. Interviewing is always a mix of excitement, anxiety, and nerves — and we have all been there," she said. "If they need some water or a snack or an extra minute to gather their thoughts, they should feel comfortable letting us know. We're all human!"

4.

Get a good night's sleep

Technical Recruiter Jordyn Kirchgessner adds that getting a good night's rest is essential, regardless of what time of day your interview is scheduled or how many hours you plan to be in the office. Arriving well-rested also leads to better mental clarity as you try to present your sharpest self to interviewers.

“Showing up well-rested also impacts your first impression. Never underestimate the importance of first impressions,” Kirchgessner said.  

5.

Research the location and arrive prepared

“Take your time to research where you are going, what the parking is like, and where can you grab coffee or lunch,” advises Stevens. “Ensure that you have enough time to mentally prepare and relax for your interview day. Giving yourself enough time to prepare for the logistics will set you up for a successful interview experience.“

Swati Aggarwal, a senior technical recruiter, adds that arriving nice and early accounts for unexpected delays and provides extra time to compose yourself before the interviews begin.

“Make sure you also bring extra copies of your resume, a notepad, and a pen, along with any portfolio of work that is relevant to the position,” she said.

6.

Dress appropriately

Around the AWS offices, you’ll see employees wearing everything from jeans and hooded sweatshirts (common) to full-blown suits (rare), and everything in between (common).

Recruiters advise to use your best judgment when it comes to your personal appearance in an interview setting.

Technical Recruiter Stephanie Ward shares: "I don't think Amazon needs you to dress in a suit, but dressing to look your best can boost confidence and it contributes to the first impression you make."

Dan Hunt, a senior technical recruiter, adds that it’s also important to dress authentically and comfortably: “Be confident and be your authentic self, which includes dressing as your authentic self. We value individuality at Amazon, and we highly encourage you to interview in what makes you comfortable.”

7.

Take advantage of Amazon's Candid Chats program

Amazon’s Candid Chats program gives you the option to meet informally with one of our affinity group allies or members during your interview process.

As Stevens recommends: "Network! Set up time for Candid Chats. You could also tap into your LinkedIn network and see who you know that already works for Amazon. Set up a time to grab a coffee and discuss why they joined the company and what keeps them in their current role."

Apart from the Candid Chats program, she also recommends asking interviewers if there is anyone else available from the team to discuss the role in-depth or if anyone is open to having coffee and chatting about AWS work culture.

“Networking goes a long way for your career path within Amazon so the best way to get to know the role is through the team directly,” she said. “People are usually more than willing to chat.”

Preparing for an AWS in-person interview?

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