7 HTML Interview Questions You Might Be Asked in an Interview

When you go to an interview for a job using HTML at work, think about what can set you apart as a candidate for the position. Companies may ask you specific questions about your experience using HTML coding or what kind of training you’ve received. They also could ask you more general questions or questions about their companies to see how prepared you are for the interview.

So, if you have an upcoming interview to assess your HTML skills, practice these seven questions to help ensure you can show off your skills.

1. Why do you like working with HTML?

What they’re really asking: Do you have an interest, and enthusiasm for working with HTML?

You can choose to use plenty of different coding languages, like JavaScript, C++, or Python, for example. So, what appeals to you about HTML? Perhaps you can talk about the ability to code websites or design newsletters to reach subscribers. You can use this question to describe examples of your work or things you’ve done for previous companies as an HTML writer and editor.

This question can also allow you to mention other languages you may work with besides HTML. Potential employers may appreciate that you can adapt to different needs depending on your coding skills, which may give you an edge over others interviewing for the same position.

Other forms this question might take:

• Have you worked with HTML before?

• Can you describe your educational background with HTML?

2. What is an example of a successful HTML project you have worked on?

What they’re really asking: Do you have real-world experience with HTML?

Organising your presentation of HTML projects you may have previously worked on is a good idea. For example, you can print out an HTML newsletter you’ve built or send links for interviewers to review before you arrive. You could also build your HTML-based website to showcase some of your talents and link to different projects.

Other forms this question might take:

• Do you have work samples?

• How have you contributed to HTML projects?

3. What are some key differences you see between HTML and HTML5?

What they’re really asking: Do you understand important changes in HTML coding?

First introduced to the public in 2008, HTML5 is the latest version of HTML coding with more features and options than the original. Understanding the differences may be helpful, especially if you want to prove that you’ve been able to adapt during your career in the field.

You may want to highlight issues like additional features for mobile platforms, particularly as more web users may be viewing your work on a mobile device. You also may want to explain your work with more interactive features like audio or video as part of a website’s design that you worked on personally. This also may be a good place to mention additional experience with JavaScript, which works in HTML5, showing off an asset you may have that makes you appealing to potential employers.

Other forms this question might take:

• How would you apply HTML updates to work in the field today?

4. What is your opinion of WYSIWYG programs?

What they’re really asking: Do you understand issues related to HTML in the workforce?

A potentially controversial issue is WYSIWYG editors, which means “What you see is what you get.” Some companies may believe it’s an important tool for employees creating websites, newsletters, and HTML products. However, other organisations may find it a clunky and cheap way to design projects.

It’s a good idea to balance your answer to reflect your understanding of the benefits and disadvantages of using WYSIWYG editors. You should also research before you walk in to find out what programs and aides a particular company likes to use.

Other forms this question might take:

• Are you comfortable with different ways to build with HTML?

• What kind of hands-on experience do you have in an HTML creative environment?

5. What HTML tags do you have experience using?

What they’re really asking: Do you understand how to apply specific tags?

This interview question can give insight into the kind of HTML coder you are. Perhaps you have more experience with simple tags that allow clean coding and design. Or maybe you have experience with more complex tags that aren’t well-known but could help you stand out from other potential applicants.

This question can help you focus on the type of work you’re known for, including what specific HTML talents you bring to a company that others may not have.

Other forms this question might take:

• What types of HTML projects have you worked on in general?

• What specific types of HTML projects do you usually focus on?

6. What do you know about the company and its competitors?

What they’re really asking: Did you research our company to prepare?

If you research before you arrive, this basic question can get you big rewards. It shows a company that you are taking an interview with them seriously. Focus on what the company is best known for or its specific view of the field it represents. You may want to talk about how you see HTML fitting into the company’s strategy and products for its customers.

It’s also a good idea to look into a company’s competitors. What makes the particular organisation you’re interviewing with better than other companies out there? What makes it special? This is also a good time to discuss potential advantages you may believe competitors have over the company you’re interviewing with to show that you know the challenges you could face in your work and how you can help the organisation overcome those challenges.

Other forms this question might take:

• Where do you think our company fits in the market?

7. Why are you a good fit for this company?

What they’re really asking: Do you understand our company’s work and culture? Why do you want to work here?

This is one of the most important questions you may be asked. Think about your career so far. Consider your previous work experience, any certifications you may have, or your educational experience. You will also want to consider projects you’ve worked on and people you’ve worked with to create a complete view of who you are.

Take all of those great things about your professional experience and figure out how to connect them to the company you’re interviewing with. Ask yourself why you would be a good fit for this particular organisation, focusing on what makes you unique, and plan out your answer to sell yourself to your potential employer.

Other forms this question might take:

• Tell us why you would be a good person for this position.

Get started with an HTML career with Coursera

You can pick up extra skills that can make you shine as an HTML writer or editor by completing a Professional Certificate or Specialisation on Coursera. For example, you can develop important skills and help add to your resume with options like the Web Design for Everybody: Basics of Web Development & Coding Specialisation.

Want to try out an introductory course instead? Consider learning the basics with a highly rated beginner course such as the Introduction to HTML5 course with the University of Michigan or the Introduction to Web Development at the University of California, Davis, both offered on Coursera.