ADHD & Living Coding Interviews

Question

I just had a live coding interview with a leetcode medium question. I easily could have solved it (have been consistently practicing), yet I struggle so much to both focus on the problem and solve it while also explaining my thought process. I start focusing on my explanation instead of the problem. The feeling of someone watching over my screen the whole time also gets in my head.

I am not sure how much of this is ADHD, stress in my head, need for more practice, etc. Should I ask companies I am interviewing with for time accommodations? It feels like that is a weird ask and could negatively impact my chances, but I know I am capable of solving the problem without this horrible setting getting in my head. I would appreciate any advice and/or opinions, feeling very down because I really liked this company.

rsquau8bfw · Accepted Answer

It's only weird because we don't make it normal. I have autism and am high functioning so many times people don't even believe me. They have a certain idea of how I behave or act. When I asked to wfh, they initially said no. I told them noisy public places like the office lead to emotional distress in me and I can't work properly. I had to bring a note and prove to them that I was on the spectrum. I felt embarrassed. But now I am happier and more productive.

seymoursel · Answer

Although it's not required, mentioning your need for accommodations on your application (the EEO section) should make it clear when you need that support. As someone with ADHD and BPD, I had to learn how to get over the stigma and tell people that about myself. It was and sometimes is still not easy. I get self conscious like they might judge me. But my therapist told me that I have to advocate for myself because if I dont, who else will?

So I hope we can encourage you to ask the question and get the support you need. It might even be worth following up with the recruiter to let them know you struggled that way other people like us get a better shot. People have a hard time understanding whats it's like living with certain conditions so it's not their fault per say. "Help them help us" was what a friend told me too.

smartDev7621 · Answer

Most companies do offer time accomodations, upto a few months in some cases. English isn't my first language. I've struggled to explain my work because I automatically assume they are judging me on non-code factors. It took a few interviews before I realized they do know the stress you are under and can be very accommodating. If you've got the solutions down pat, try to pretend you are speaking with a friend, explaining your approach and not someone whose approval you need to gain.  (Strictly speaking you do, but learn to pretend that you don't )

HungryFish · Answer

Well, I too have ADHD. And this is bound to happen. Like most things in life, I think it comes down to luck. If the day is good, and lady luck smiles on you, u are in focus, else BOMB :P

Fullmotion · Answer

Yes do ask for accommodations

ADHD & Living Coding Interviews

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