Cisco Associate Sales Engineer Interview Questions & Experience Guide
Company Name: Cisco
Position: Associate Sales Engineer
Application Process: Applied through campus placement.
Interview Rounds:
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Round 1 - Aptitude Test:
- Questions Asked: Quant-related questions of moderate difficulty.
- Your Approach: Focused on solving problems methodically and managing time efficiently.
- Outcome: Cleared the round successfully.
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Round 2 - Case Study Presentation:
- Questions Asked: Presented a 10-minute case study.
- Your Approach: Prepared thoroughly, structured the presentation clearly, and practiced to ensure smooth delivery.
- Outcome: Performed well and advanced to the next round.
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Round 3 - Managerial Round:
- Questions Asked: Mostly behavioral questions, with a slight chance of technical questions.
- Your Approach: Stayed calm, answered honestly, and highlighted relevant experiences.
- Outcome: The interviewers were friendly and made me feel comfortable, which helped me perform well.
Preparation Tips:
- Practice quant problems for the aptitude test.
- Work on structuring case studies clearly and concisely.
- Prepare for behavioral questions using the STAR method.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth, and the interviewers were very supportive. I would advise future candidates to stay confident, prepare thoroughly, and engage naturally with the interviewers.
Company Name: Cisco
Position: Associate Sales Engineer
Application Process: Applied online, followed by a multi-step interview process.
Interview Rounds:
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Round 1 - Video Submission:
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Questions Asked: Submit a 2-minute video explaining a Cisco product or initiative.
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Your Approach: I researched a Cisco product thoroughly and practiced my explanation to ensure clarity and confidence.
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Outcome: Advanced to the next round.
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Round 2 - Technical Interview:
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Questions Asked: Coding exercises followed by a line-by-line review of the code.
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Your Approach: I prepared by practicing coding problems and ensuring I could explain my thought process clearly.
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Outcome: Passed the round and moved forward.
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Round 3 - Onsite Interview:
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Components:
- Behavioral Interview: Standard behavioral questions.
- 20-Minute Presentation: Given a product to present on with 24 hours to prepare.
- Aptitude Test: Straightforward, with minimal impact on the overall process.
- Sales Role-Play: Simulated customer interaction with a manager.
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Your Approach:
- For the presentation, I focused on clarity, engagement, and anticipating potential questions.
- For the sales role-play, I researched the customer scenario beforehand and practiced responding to objections.
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Outcome: The presentation and role-play were critical; feedback emphasized how I addressed concerns and questions.
Preparation Tips:
- Research Cisco products and initiatives thoroughly.
- Practice coding problems and explaining your solutions.
- For presentations, focus on clarity and anticipate follow-up questions.
- Role-play sales scenarios with peers to build confidence.
Conclusion:
The interview process was challenging but rewarding. The key was preparation, especially for the presentation and sales role-play. I could have practiced more sales scenarios to feel even more confident. For future candidates, focus on clear communication and adaptability in responses.
Company Name: Cisco
Position: Associate Sales Engineer
Application Process: Applied through the company’s career portal. The process was straightforward, and I received a response within a couple of weeks.
Interview Rounds:
-
Round 1 - Prescreen Interview:
- Questions Asked: Briefly introduced myself, discussed my background, and why I was interested in the role. The interviewer also asked about my understanding of the sales engineering field.
- Your Approach: I kept my answers concise and focused on my relevant skills and enthusiasm for the role. I also did some research on Cisco’s products and the sales engineering role beforehand.
- Outcome: Passed this round and moved to the next stage.
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Round 2 - Critical Thinking Interview:
- Questions Asked: Presented with a hypothetical sales scenario and asked how I would approach it. Also, some problem-solving questions to gauge analytical skills.
- Your Approach: I structured my answers logically, breaking down the scenario into smaller parts and explaining my thought process clearly. For problem-solving, I used examples from past experiences.
- Outcome: The interviewer seemed satisfied with my responses, and I advanced to the next round.
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Round 3 - Behavioral Interview:
- Questions Asked: Questions about teamwork, handling conflicts, and time management. Also, situational questions like “Tell me about a time you had to persuade someone.”
- Your Approach: I used the STAR method to frame my answers, ensuring I highlighted specific examples and outcomes.
- Outcome: The interviewer appreciated my structured responses, and I felt confident about this round.
Preparation Tips:
- Research the company and the role thoroughly. Understand Cisco’s products and how sales engineering fits into their ecosystem.
- Practice behavioral questions using the STAR method.
- Brush up on problem-solving and critical thinking skills, as these are key for the role.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth, and the interviewers were very supportive. I felt well-prepared, but I could have practiced more hypothetical sales scenarios to feel even more confident. For future candidates, I’d recommend focusing on both technical and behavioral aspects, as the role requires a balance of both.
Company Name: Cisco
Position: Associate Sales Engineer
Application Process: I applied through the company’s career portal after seeing the job posting online. The process was straightforward, requiring a resume upload and a few basic details.
Interview Rounds:
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Round 1 - Video Interview:
- Questions Asked: Record a video discussing one of Cisco’s products, explaining its features and benefits.
- Your Approach: I chose Cisco’s Webex product, as I was familiar with it. I highlighted its collaboration features, security, and how it stands out from competitors. I practiced a few times to ensure clarity and confidence.
- Outcome: Passed this round and moved to the next stage.
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Round 2 - Take-Home Technical Assessment & Interview:
- Questions Asked: The assessment included technical questions about networking concepts and a scenario-based problem. The interview afterward focused on my thought process and how I approached the assessment.
- Your Approach: I reviewed basic networking principles beforehand and took my time to structure my answers logically during the interview.
- Outcome: Successfully cleared this round.
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Round 3 - Manager Interview:
- Questions Asked: Behavioral questions like “Tell me about a time you handled a difficult situation” and technical questions about sales strategies.
- Your Approach: I used the STAR method for behavioral questions and linked my answers to real experiences. For technical questions, I focused on how I would apply Cisco’s solutions to customer needs.
- Outcome: Advanced to the final round.
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Round 4 - Assessment Center:
- Questions Asked: Group activities, case studies, and a final panel interview. The case study involved proposing a sales strategy for a hypothetical client.
- Your Approach: I collaborated actively during group activities and ensured my contributions were clear. For the case study, I structured my proposal with a problem-solution-benefit framework.
- Outcome: Received positive feedback and an offer!
Preparation Tips:
- Brush up on Cisco’s product portfolio and understand their use cases.
- Practice video responses to build confidence in speaking clearly and concisely.
- Review networking basics and sales strategies, as they are frequently tested.
- Use the STAR method for behavioral questions to keep answers structured.
Conclusion:
Overall, the process was rigorous but well-structured. I felt prepared because I researched the company thoroughly and practiced my responses. If I could do anything differently, I would have networked more with current employees to gain deeper insights. For future candidates, my advice is to stay calm, be yourself, and showcase how you align with Cisco’s values and goals.
Company Name: Cisco
Position: Associate Sales Engineer
Location: Remote (due to the pandemic)
Application Process: I applied online through Cisco’s career portal. The process was straightforward, and I received an email confirmation shortly after submitting my application.
Interview Rounds:
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Round 1 - Video Submission:
- Questions Asked: Create a short video introducing yourself and explaining why you’re interested in the Associate Sales Engineer role at Cisco.
- Your Approach: I kept the video concise (under 2 minutes) and focused on my passion for technology and sales, along with my relevant skills. I also highlighted my enthusiasm for Cisco’s work culture.
- Outcome: Passed this round and was invited to the next stage.
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Round 2 - Interview with Program Managers:
- Questions Asked: Questions about my background, technical knowledge, and problem-solving skills. They also asked situational questions like, “How would you handle a difficult customer?”
- Your Approach: I answered honestly, tying my responses to real-life experiences. For situational questions, I used the STAR method to structure my answers.
- Outcome: Advanced to the next round.
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Round 3 - Live Coding Assessment:
- Questions Asked: Basic coding problems to assess logical thinking and problem-solving skills. The questions were not overly complex but required clear and efficient solutions.
- Your Approach: I practiced coding problems beforehand and made sure to explain my thought process as I worked through the problems.
- Outcome: Successfully cleared this round.
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Round 4 - Remote Assessment Center:
- Questions Asked: Group activities, case studies, and a final interview with senior managers. The case study involved a sales scenario where we had to propose a solution.
- Your Approach: I actively participated in group discussions, listened to others, and contributed ideas. For the case study, I structured my solution logically and presented it clearly.
- Outcome: Received positive feedback and an offer for the role!
Preparation Tips:
- Practice coding problems regularly, even if the role isn’t purely technical.
- Brush up on sales and customer interaction scenarios—STAR method is very helpful here.
- For video submissions, rehearse a few times to ensure clarity and confidence.
Conclusion:
Overall, the process was thorough but fair. I felt well-prepared, but I could have practiced more coding problems to feel even more confident. My advice to future candidates is to research Cisco’s values and align your responses with them. Also, don’t underestimate the importance of soft skills in a sales-focused role!
Company Name: Cisco
Position: Associate Sales Engineer
Location: Cary, NC (for final rounds)
Application Process:
The process started at an on-campus job fair where I had a preliminary screening and resume review with the first interviewer. After a brief 10-minute conversation, I was scheduled for an hour-long behavioral interview the next morning. Almost two months later, I was informed that I had been selected for the final rounds, which involved traveling to Cary, NC, for a full-day interview.
Interview Rounds:
-
Round 1 - Behavioral Interview:
-
Questions Asked: General behavioral questions to assess my fit for the role and company culture.
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Your Approach: I focused on providing structured responses using the STAR method to highlight my experiences and skills.
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Outcome: Passed and moved to the final rounds.
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Round 2 - Presentation:
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Questions Asked: I had to present on a topic of my choosing from a limited list provided by Cisco. No PowerPoint was allowed, but handouts and a whiteboard were provided.
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Your Approach: I prepared thoroughly, ensuring my presentation was clear, engaging, and well-organized. I used the whiteboard to illustrate key points.
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Outcome: The interviewers seemed engaged and asked follow-up questions, which I answered confidently.
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Round 3 - Roundtable Discussion:
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Questions Asked: This was an interactive session with individuals who had gone through the program. We could ask them about their experiences.
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Your Approach: I asked insightful questions to understand the program better and show my genuine interest.
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Outcome: It was more of an informational session, but it helped me gauge the company culture.
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Round 4 - Technical Assessment:
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Questions Asked: Two individuals questioned me on my technical knowledge relevant to the role.
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Your Approach: I reviewed key technical concepts beforehand and answered as clearly as possible, admitting when I didn’t know something but showing willingness to learn.
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Outcome: The interviewers seemed satisfied with my responses.
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Round 5 - Sales Simulation:
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Questions Asked: A mock sales scenario to assess how I would interact with a client.
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Your Approach: I focused on active listening, understanding the client’s needs, and presenting solutions confidently.
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Outcome: I felt I handled the simulation well, though it was challenging.
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Round 6 - Data Center Tour:
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Questions Asked: This was more of an observational round where we toured a data center testing facility.
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Your Approach: I asked questions to show curiosity and interest in the technology.
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Outcome: It was a great learning experience and a chance to see Cisco’s infrastructure firsthand.
Preparation Tips:
- For behavioral interviews, practice the STAR method to structure your answers effectively.
- For presentations, rehearse multiple times and anticipate potential questions.
- Brush up on technical fundamentals relevant to the role.
- For sales simulations, focus on active listening and problem-solving.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was thorough and challenging but also a great learning experience. The key was staying calm, being prepared, and showing genuine interest in the role and company. If I could do anything differently, I’d spend more time practicing mock sales scenarios. For future candidates, I’d advise thorough preparation and confidence in your abilities!
Company Name: Cisco
Position: Associate Sales Engineer
Application Process: I applied through the company’s career portal after coming across the job posting. The process was straightforward, and I received a response within a couple of weeks for the initial screening.
Interview Rounds:
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Round 1 - Prescreen Interview:
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Questions Asked: The interviewer asked about my background, why I was interested in the role, and my understanding of the Associate Sales Engineer position.
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Your Approach: I kept my answers concise and focused on my relevant skills and enthusiasm for the role. I also did some research about Cisco’s products and culture beforehand.
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Outcome: I passed this round and was invited to the next stage.
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Round 2 - Critical Thinking Interview:
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Questions Asked: This round involved scenario-based questions to assess problem-solving skills. For example, “How would you handle a situation where a client is unhappy with a product?”
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Your Approach: I structured my answers using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to provide clear and logical responses.
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Outcome: The interviewer seemed satisfied with my answers, and I moved forward.
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Round 3 - Behavioral Interview:
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Questions Asked: Questions like “Tell me about a time you worked in a team under pressure” and “Describe a situation where you had to persuade someone.”
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Your Approach: I shared specific examples from my past experiences, highlighting teamwork, adaptability, and communication skills.
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Outcome: This round went well, and I felt confident about my performance.
Preparation Tips:
- Research the company’s products and values to align your answers with their culture.
- Practice the STAR method for behavioral questions.
- Be prepared to discuss your problem-solving approach in detail.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth, and the interviewers were very supportive. I wish I had practiced more scenario-based questions beforehand, but I learned a lot from the experience. For future candidates, I’d recommend being yourself and staying calm—it makes a big difference!
Company Name: Cisco
Position: Associate Sales Engineer
Application Process: I applied through my university’s campus placement program. The process was streamlined, and I received an email with further instructions after my application was shortlisted.
Interview Rounds:
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Round 1 - Video Submission:
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Questions Asked: Create a short video introducing yourself and explaining why you’re interested in the role.
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Your Approach: I kept the video concise (under 2 minutes) and focused on my passion for technology and sales, along with my relevant experiences. I also highlighted my communication skills, which are crucial for a sales role.
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Outcome: Passed this round and moved to the next stage.
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Round 2 - Interview with Program Managers:
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Questions Asked: Questions about my resume, technical knowledge (basic networking concepts), and situational scenarios (e.g., “How would you handle a difficult customer?”).
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Your Approach: I prepared by reviewing my resume thoroughly and brushing up on networking fundamentals. For situational questions, I used the STAR method to structure my answers.
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Outcome: Successfully cleared this round.
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Round 3 - Live Coding Assessment:
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Questions Asked: Basic coding problems (e.g., string manipulation, loops) and logic-based questions.
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Your Approach: I practiced coding problems on platforms like LeetCode beforehand. During the assessment, I focused on writing clean, efficient code and explaining my thought process.
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Outcome: Cleared this round as well.
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Round 4 - Remote Assessment Center:
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Questions Asked: Group discussion, case study analysis, and a final interview with senior managers. The case study involved a sales scenario where we had to propose solutions.
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Your Approach: For the group discussion, I ensured active participation while being respectful of others’ opinions. For the case study, I structured my analysis logically and presented my ideas clearly. The final interview was more about cultural fit and long-term goals.
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Outcome: Received positive feedback and was selected for the role!
Preparation Tips:
- For the video round, practice speaking clearly and confidently. Keep it short and impactful.
- Brush up on basic networking concepts and be ready to discuss your resume in detail.
- Practice coding problems to build confidence for the live coding round.
- For group discussions and case studies, focus on teamwork and structured thinking.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was thorough but well-organized. I felt prepared because I dedicated time to each stage. If I could do anything differently, I would have practiced more mock case studies to refine my analytical skills further. My advice to future candidates is to stay calm, be yourself, and prepare systematically for each round. Good luck!
Company Name: Cisco
Position: Associate Sales Engineer
Application Process: I applied through the company’s career portal after seeing the job posting online. The process was straightforward, and I received an email confirmation shortly after submitting my application.
Interview Rounds:
-
Round 1 - Video Interview:
-
Questions Asked: I was asked to record a video discussing one of Cisco’s products. The prompt was to explain the product’s features, benefits, and potential use cases for a non-technical audience.
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Your Approach: I chose a product I was familiar with, researched it further to ensure accuracy, and practiced my explanation to keep it concise and engaging. I focused on clarity and simplicity to appeal to a broad audience.
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Outcome: I passed this round and was invited to the next stage.
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Round 2 - Take-Home Technical Assessment with Interview:
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Questions Asked: The assessment included technical questions related to networking concepts, troubleshooting scenarios, and a few sales-related case studies. The interview portion involved discussing my answers and thought process.
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Your Approach: I reviewed networking fundamentals beforehand and practiced case studies to structure my responses logically. During the interview, I emphasized my problem-solving approach and how I would communicate technical details to clients.
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Outcome: I advanced to the next round after successfully completing this stage.
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Round 3 - Manager Interview:
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Questions Asked: This round was more conversational, focusing on my experience, motivation for the role, and how I handle challenges. There were also situational questions about teamwork and customer interactions.
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Your Approach: I prepared by reflecting on my past experiences and aligning them with the role’s requirements. I also researched Cisco’s culture to tailor my answers.
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Outcome: The manager seemed satisfied with my responses, and I moved forward to the final round.
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Round 4 - Assessment Center:
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Questions Asked: This was a comprehensive round with group activities, presentations, and individual tasks. Topics included teamwork exercises, a mock sales pitch, and a technical problem-solving task.
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Your Approach: I stayed collaborative during group activities, ensured my presentation was clear and persuasive, and methodically tackled the technical task. I also made sure to engage with other candidates and assessors professionally.
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Outcome: I received positive feedback and was offered the position!
Preparation Tips:
- Research Cisco’s products and solutions thoroughly, especially those relevant to the role.
- Brush up on networking basics and troubleshooting scenarios.
- Practice explaining technical concepts in simple terms for non-technical audiences.
- Prepare for behavioral questions by reflecting on past experiences and aligning them with the job requirements.
- Mock interviews and case study practice can be very helpful.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was challenging but well-structured. I felt prepared, but I could have practiced more mock sales pitches to refine my delivery. My advice to future candidates is to focus on both technical and soft skills, as the role requires a balance of both. Good luck!
Company Name: Cisco
Position: Associate Sales Engineer
Location: Cary, NC (for final rounds)
Application Process:
The process began at an on-campus job fair where I had a preliminary screening with an interviewer who reviewed my resume. After a brief 10-minute conversation, I was scheduled for an hour-long behavioral interview the next morning. Almost two months later, I received an invitation for the final rounds, which involved traveling to Cary, NC, for a full-day interview.
Interview Rounds:
-
Round 1 - Preliminary Screening:
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Questions Asked: General resume review and initial fit for the role.
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Your Approach: I highlighted my relevant coursework, projects, and any sales or technical experience.
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Outcome: Selected for the next round (behavioral interview).
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Round 2 - Behavioral Interview:
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Questions Asked: Typical behavioral questions like “Tell me about a time you worked in a team,” “Describe a challenge you faced,” etc.
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Your Approach: Used the STAR method to structure my answers clearly.
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Outcome: Advanced to the final rounds.
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Round 3 - Final Round (Full-Day Interview):
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Session 1 - Presentation:
- Questions Asked: Presented on a topic of my choosing from their provided list (no PowerPoint, but handouts and whiteboard allowed).
- Your Approach: Chose a topic I was passionate about and prepared concise handouts to support my points.
- Outcome: Felt confident in my delivery and engagement.
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Session 2 - Roundtable Discussion:
- Questions Asked: Asked questions to current program participants about their experiences.
- Your Approach: Focused on understanding the day-to-day role and company culture.
- Outcome: Gained valuable insights.
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Session 3 - Technical Assessment:
- Questions Asked: Technical questions related to networking, systems, and problem-solving.
- Your Approach: Drew from my coursework and hands-on projects to answer confidently.
- Outcome: Felt solid about my responses.
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Session 4 - Data Center Tour:
- Questions Asked: Observational and interactive tour of a testing facility.
- Your Approach: Asked questions to show curiosity and interest in the technology.
- Outcome: Enjoyed the experience and learned a lot.
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Session 5 - Sales Simulation:
- Questions Asked: Simulated a client interaction to assess sales skills.
- Your Approach: Focused on active listening, problem-solving, and clear communication.
- Outcome: Felt I performed well, though it was challenging.
Preparation Tips:
- For behavioral questions, practice the STAR method to structure answers clearly.
- For technical rounds, brush up on networking fundamentals and problem-solving scenarios.
- For the presentation, choose a topic you’re passionate about and rehearse to ensure smooth delivery.
- For the sales simulation, practice active listening and think on your feet.
Conclusion:
Overall, the process was thorough but rewarding. The final rounds were intense but gave a great sense of the role and company culture. I could have prepared more for the sales simulation, as it was outside my comfort zone. My advice is to research the company deeply, practice all types of interview rounds, and stay confident throughout the process!
Company Name: Cisco
Position: Associate Sales Engineer
Location: Cary, NC (for final rounds)
Application Process:
The process began at an on-campus job fair where I had a preliminary screening and resume review with the first interviewer. After a brief 10-minute conversation, I was scheduled for an hour-long behavioral interview the next morning. It took almost two months before I received an update that I was selected for the final rounds.
Interview Rounds:
-
Round 1 - Behavioral Interview:
-
Questions Asked:
- Tell me about a time you worked in a team.
- Describe a situation where you faced a challenge and how you overcame it.
- Why do you want to work at Cisco?
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Your Approach: I focused on providing structured answers using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to ensure clarity and impact. I also tied my responses back to the role and Cisco’s values.
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Outcome: Passed and moved to the final rounds.
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Round 2 - Final Rounds (Full-Day Interview):
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Session 1 - Presentation:
- Task: Delivered a presentation on a topic of my choosing from their provided list. No PowerPoint was allowed, but handouts and a whiteboard were provided.
- Your Approach: I prepared a clear, concise presentation with visual aids and practiced my delivery to ensure confidence and clarity.
- Outcome: Feedback was positive on my ability to communicate complex ideas simply.
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Session 2 - Roundtable Discussion:
- Task: Asked questions to individuals who had gone through the program about their experiences.
- Your Approach: I asked thoughtful questions about their challenges, growth, and tips for success in the role.
- Outcome: Gained valuable insights and built rapport with the panel.
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Session 3 - Technical Assessment:
- Questions Asked:
- Basic networking concepts (e.g., TCP/IP, OSI model).
- Troubleshooting a network issue scenario.
- Your Approach: I reviewed foundational networking topics beforehand and walked through the troubleshooting scenario methodically.
- Outcome: Demonstrated solid technical understanding.
- Questions Asked:
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Session 4 - Data Center Tour:
- Task: Tour of a data center testing facility.
- Your Approach: Asked questions about the infrastructure and operations to show curiosity and engagement.
- Outcome: Enjoyed the experience and learned about Cisco’s technology in action.
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Session 5 - Sales Simulation:
- Task: Simulated a client interaction to assess sales skills.
- Your Approach: I focused on active listening, addressing client needs, and presenting solutions confidently.
- Outcome: Received positive feedback on my client-facing skills.
Preparation Tips:
- For behavioral questions, practice the STAR method to structure your answers effectively.
- Brush up on basic networking concepts for the technical round.
- Prepare a well-organized presentation and practice delivering it without slides.
- Engage actively during the roundtable and tour to show enthusiasm and curiosity.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was thorough but rewarding. The behavioral round was straightforward, but the final rounds required extensive preparation and adaptability. The presentation and sales simulation were highlights, as they allowed me to showcase my communication and problem-solving skills. If I could do anything differently, I would spend more time practicing the sales simulation to refine my pitch. My advice for future candidates is to prepare thoroughly for each component and stay confident throughout the process!
Company Name: Cisco
Position: Associate Sales Engineer
Location: Cary, NC (for final rounds)
Application Process:
The process began at an on-campus job fair where I had a preliminary screening and resume review with the first interviewer. After a brief 10-minute conversation, I was scheduled for an hour-long behavioral interview the next morning. Almost two months later, I received an invitation for the final rounds, which involved traveling to Cary, NC, for a full-day interview.
Interview Rounds:
-
Round 1 - Behavioral Interview:
- Questions Asked: General behavioral questions to assess my fit for the role and company culture.
- Your Approach: I focused on providing structured answers using the STAR method to highlight my experiences and skills.
- Outcome: Passed and moved to the final rounds.
-
Round 2 - Final Round (Full-Day Interview):
-
Session 1 - Presentation:
- Questions Asked: Presented on a topic of my choosing from their provided list (no PowerPoint, but handouts and a whiteboard were allowed).
- Your Approach: I prepared thoroughly, ensuring my presentation was clear, engaging, and well-supported with handouts.
- Outcome: Received positive feedback for clarity and engagement.
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Session 2 - Roundtable Discussion:
- Questions Asked: Asked questions to current program participants about their experiences.
- Your Approach: I actively listened and asked insightful questions to understand the role better.
- Outcome: Gained valuable insights into the program.
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Session 3 - Technical Assessment:
- Questions Asked: Technical questions to evaluate my knowledge and problem-solving skills.
- Your Approach: I answered confidently, admitting when I didn’t know something but demonstrating my thought process.
- Outcome: Performed well, with constructive feedback on areas to improve.
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Session 4 - Data Center Tour:
- Questions Asked: No formal questions, but observed and asked about the facility.
- Your Approach: Showed curiosity and enthusiasm about the technology and operations.
- Outcome: Enjoyed the tour and learned a lot.
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Session 5 - Sales Simulation:
- Questions Asked: Simulated a client interaction to assess sales skills.
- Your Approach: I focused on active listening, clear communication, and addressing the “client’s” needs.
- Outcome: Received positive feedback for my approach and adaptability.
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Preparation Tips:
- For the behavioral interview, practice the STAR method to structure your answers.
- For the presentation, rehearse multiple times and prepare handouts to support your points.
- Brush up on technical fundamentals relevant to the role.
- For the sales simulation, practice active listening and client-focused communication.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was thorough and well-structured, giving me a clear understanding of the role and company culture. The final rounds were intense but rewarding. If I could do anything differently, I would spend more time preparing for the technical assessment. My advice for future candidates is to be yourself, stay confident, and prepare thoroughly for each stage of the process.
Company Name: Cisco
Position: Associate Sales Engineer
Location: Cary, NC (for final rounds)
Application Process:
The process began at an on-campus job fair where I had a preliminary screening and resume review with an interviewer. After a brief 10-minute conversation, I was scheduled for an hour-long behavioral interview the next morning. Almost two months later, I received news that I was selected for the final rounds, which involved traveling to Cary, NC, for a full-day interview.
Interview Rounds:
-
Round 1 - Behavioral Interview:
-
Questions Asked: General behavioral questions to assess my fit for the role and company culture.
-
Your Approach: I focused on aligning my answers with Cisco’s values and used the STAR method to structure my responses.
-
Outcome: Passed and moved to the final rounds.
-
Round 2 - Final Rounds (Full-Day Interview):
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Presentation:
- Task: Delivered a presentation on a topic from their provided list (no PowerPoint, but handouts and a whiteboard were allowed).
- Your Approach: I chose a topic I was passionate about, prepared handouts, and practiced my delivery to ensure clarity and engagement.
- Outcome: Received positive feedback on my presentation skills.
-
Roundtable Discussion:
- Task: Engaged in a Q&A session with individuals who had gone through the program.
- Your Approach: Asked insightful questions about their experiences and how the program prepared them for their roles.
- Outcome: Gained valuable insights and built rapport with the panel.
-
Technical Assessment:
- Questions Asked: Technical questions to evaluate my knowledge and problem-solving skills.
- Your Approach: I stayed calm, thought aloud, and demonstrated my understanding of fundamental concepts.
- Outcome: Felt confident about my performance.
-
Data Center Tour:
- Task: Visited a data center testing facility to learn about Cisco’s infrastructure.
- Your Approach: Asked questions to show my interest and understanding of the technology.
- Outcome: Enjoyed the tour and learned a lot.
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Sales Simulation:
- Task: Participated in a mock sales scenario to assess client-facing skills.
- Your Approach: Focused on active listening, clear communication, and addressing the “client’s” needs.
- Outcome: Felt I handled the simulation well and received constructive feedback.
Preparation Tips:
- For behavioral questions, practice the STAR method to structure your answers effectively.
- For presentations, choose a topic you’re passionate about and rehearse multiple times.
- Brush up on technical fundamentals, especially those relevant to Cisco’s products and solutions.
- For sales simulations, focus on listening and responding to the client’s needs rather than pushing a script.
Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was thorough but rewarding. The behavioral round was straightforward, while the final rounds tested a wide range of skills, from technical knowledge to client interaction. The key takeaway for me was the importance of preparation and adaptability. For future candidates, I’d recommend researching Cisco’s culture, practicing presentations, and being ready to think on your feet during the technical and sales rounds.