Now that the MSI Packaging Academy is out, you can get a certification that shows how good you are at packaging. I also thought I’d give you some of the most common application packaging interview questions, some of which I have asked different applicants over the years. If you ask these questions, you might get a sense of what to expect at your next interview, which might help you feel less nervous.
Interviewing at MSI can be an exciting yet daunting process. As a leading manufacturer of computer hardware and electronics, they are looking to hire top talent. With competition fierce, you need to enter the interview prepared if you want to land the job.
In this article, I’ll share the top 20 most common MSI interview questions along with sample answers to help you ace the interview and start an amazing career at MSI. With over 30 years of innovation and success, MSI is a company you’ll be proud to work for. Let’s get started!
1. Why do you want to work for MSI?
This question tests your knowledge about the company along with your motivation for wanting the job The interviewer wants to know you have done your research and are excited by MSI’s mission and products
A good answer will show your passion for the company. For example
“I’ve been impressed by MSI’s commitment to innovation and quality in the computer hardware space for over 30 years Your graphics cards, motherboards, and laptops are consistently top-rated MSI is a leader in high-performance tech that empowers both gamers and professionals. I’m excited by the opportunity to contribute to those efforts by joining a team of such bright and motivated people. The chance to work on cutting-edge tech products in a collaborative environment is my dream job.”
This highlights your knowledge of MSI’s products, company values, and enthusiasm for the role.
2. What experience do you have with MSI’s products?
Since MSI makes tech products, they want to know you are familiar with them. Talk about any MSI laptops, desktops, or components you’ve used.
For example:
“While building my last two gaming PCs, I used MSI motherboards because of their performance, features, and reliability. For my current laptop, I chose the MSI Creator Series for its excellent mix of power and portability. I’m very impressed with the quality and capabilities of MSI’s products.”
Don’t be afraid to geek out and show your passion here.
3. Why do you want to work in the tech hardware industry?
This question gauges your long-term interest in the field. Show you are in it for the long-haul.
“Growing up I always had an interest in how computers and electronics work. I built my first PC when I was 15. I love the constant innovation in the hardware space and how technology empowers people. Getting to work hands-on developing products that improve lives excites me. I plan to pursue a long-term career in the tech industry, and MSI’s commitment to pushing boundaries through cutting-edge hardware makes it an ideal fit.”
4. What relevant skills or experience do you have for this role?
Since MSI makes technical products, they want to be sure you have the right background and skills. Pick 2-3 key skills and back them up with examples.
“From my computer engineering studies, I have strong experience programming in Languages like Java and C++, skills that are crucial for firmware roles. I also have 5 years of experience testing hardware components including motherboards and SSDs. Attention to detail and identifying issues are critical in product testing. Finally, I’m comfortable collaborating with cross-functional engineering teams having worked closely between software and electrical engineers on past projects.”
The key is matching your skills and examples to the role you are applying for.
5. How do you handle a heavy workload or tight deadlines?
MSI prides itself on innovation and delivering cutting-edge tech. That requires team members who thrive under pressure. Share examples of when you performed exceptionally despite challenges.
“In my previous role, we were preparing to demo a new product at a trade show with a tight deadline. When several setbacks occurred, I volunteered to take on extra tasks to help get us back on track. This included stepping in to rewrite portions of the software demo and creating the product videos for the booth. Through teamwork and long hours, we successfully met the deadline and delivered an amazing demo that led to new sales. I enjoy the challenge of working under pressure to achieve great results.”
No one wants to always work long hours, but showing you can handle pressure says a lot.
6. Tell me about a time you failed and what you learned from it.
Everyone fails sometimes, so don’t be afraid to share a story. The key is showing maturity in how you respond to failure.
“Early in my career, I was tasked with writing firmware for a new hardware component. Unfortunately, I made some mistakes which led to serious bugs in initial testing. I had let my excitement for the project override doing thorough unit testing along the way. Although admitting my oversights was difficult, I learned the importance of discipline and incremental testing, especially with something as complex as firmware. I immediately identified the gaps in my process and rewrote the firmware following rigorous test-driven development principles. This not only corrected the issues but led to higher quality code. I now advocate those processes across my team.”
The best stories show failure but more importantly growth.
7. How do you stay up-to-date on technology trends and innovations?
This role requires keeping your skills and knowledge sharp in a rapidly changing industry. Share how you actively learn and stay current.
“I make learning new technologies a daily habit. I subscribe to several industry publications and blogs to stay on top of the latest tech news and breakthroughs. I also attend local tech meetups and hackathons whenever I can to exchange ideas with the community. Experimenting with new hardware kits and reading whitepapers from leaders like Intel helps me dive deeper. I’m passionate about continuous learning to be the best technologist I can be.”
Lifelong learning is a must-have trait here.
8. Why do you want to leave your current job?
This question aims to uncover if there are any red flags with your current employer. Keep your answer positive.
“I’ve learned a lot at my current job, but ultimately I’m looking for opportunities to work with newer technologies at scale. While I appreciate the chance I was given, MSI’s focus aligned closely with my skills and long-term interests makes it an ideal next step in my career progression.”
Never speak poorly of past employers. Instead focus on the growth potential of the new role.
9. Tell me about a time you faced a conflict at work and how you handled it.
Conflicts happen, so don’t be afraid to share a story. What matters most is how you handled it.
“When transitioning to a new inventory management system, there were disagreements between team members over implementation details. Rather than take sides, I arranged a working session for us to share our concerns and ideas openly. This enabled us to find common ground and unite around the best solution, combining the strengths of both approaches. By keeping an open mind and facilitating dialogue, I helped resolve the conflict productively which improved team cohesion. We met the transition goals on time with everyone’s buy-in.”
Show you aim for win-win resolutions.
10. Describe a time you had to collaborate with someone difficult. How did you handle it?
Show that you can work well with anyone. Share how you adapted your style or found common ground.
“Early in my career, I had to partner with a senior engineer who initially doubted my capabilities and second-guessed my work. Rather than get defensive, I focused on listening to his concerns and identifying his preferred working style. I adapted my communication approach to provide clear status updates and details. When he challenged my designs, I asked thoughtful questions to understand his experience-based perspectives. Over time this built greater trust. We not only developed an effective partnership but I also learned invaluable lessons that have made me a better engineer.”
Focus on mutual understanding and growth.
11. Why should we hire you over other candidates?
Summarize your strongest qualifications matched to the role’s needs. But stay honest – no exaggerations!
“With my computer engineering degree and 7 years of experience developing firmware and device drivers, I have the right mix of education and hands-on skills to thrive. I also have a track record of releasing quality products on schedule, which I think shows my work ethic and perseverance. Most importantly though, I’m incredibly passionate about MSI’s mission and would bring energy and creativity to continually raise the bar. You won’t find a candidate more motivated to help MSI build the next generation of hardware.”
Help them see how perfectly you fit the role!
12. What questions do you have for us about the role or MSI?
Never say you have no questions! Use this as a chance to show enthusiasm and learn more.
“I’m very excited about the chance to contribute to MSI’s future products. Could you share examples of the types of projects I might work on in this role? I’d also love to learn
What is an MSI?
Microsoft released the Windows Installer service and MSI files in 2000 so that there would be a set of rules for managing applications (installing, fixing, and uninstalling).
There is all the information Windows Installer needs to install or remove an app or software product in an MSI package.
This file has all the information needed to roll out the user’s graphical interface. It has the database and the data streams for different parts of the installation. An . msi file can also have one or more transforms (. mst files), internal or external files, needed for the installation. It can be classified as a database that contains different tables. Each of these tables contains specific instructions and setup-related information.
Define the base structure of an MSI.
The way I would define the structure of an MSI is:
- Features
- Components: Files, Registries, Shortcuts, Extensions, Services, Odbcs, System variables
- Custom Actions
When interviewers defined features as products, it’s important to be aware of how you present the situation. This is because a feature can be thought of as “a product” that has “sub-features.” This is not true at all; I think the interviewer just thought it was funny. In Microsoft documentation (and in real life), a feature is not the same thing as a product.
Define the cases where repackaging is recommended and when repackaging is to be avoided.
For MSI, repackaging is usually needed and pushed as the best way to make sure that all of its parts follow the same set of rules and actions. All MSI packages follow the same principle and produce easy to read verbose logs.
When it comes to logs, this is another reason why applications need to be repackaged: without logs, a failed installation can’t be fixed. This is probably the golden rule of repackaging.
Customizations can be added to the answer based on the interviewer’s point of view, since repackaging makes it possible to make more changes to the installation. Some interviewers, though, think that wrappers like PowerShell App Deployment Toolkit are the same thing as repackaging, which I think is not true. There are no changes made to the installation itself; instead, technologies that are not part of the main package are used to make the extra changes.
When we are discussing cases to avoid repackaging we need to mention:
- Vendor MSI files. Instead, you can customize them using Transform files.
- Hotfixes, patches, and updates for the Windows Installer Service, MDAC, and the operating system Because they change Windows security rules, those programs shouldn’t be repackaged.
- Drivers for devices, Windows Media Player, Microsoft Internet Explorer, and antivirus software Some of the changes that these kinds of programs make to the operating system are to protect Windows files.
Application Packaging – Job Interview Questions and Answers
What is the interview process like at MSI (Lenexa)?
I interviewed at MSI (Lenexa, KS) in Nov 2021 When you walk in, they will force you to waste time filling out paperwork that you’ve already sent them. They’ll then interview you and seem friendly, but it’s clear the whole time that they don’t value your time, or their employees time.
Should I use MSI or MSP?
Depends on the situation. For fast fixes which need to be as small in size as possible, MSP is the preferred way, but MSP files are hard to work with due to the strict rules which apply to them. In general cases, MSI upgrades are preferred in the industry.
What is a msi file?
It includes all the details for rolling the graphical interface for the user, which includes the database and the data streams for different parts of the installation. An .msi file can also have one or more transforms ( .mst files ), internal or external files, needed for the installation.
How do I impress a hiring manager during an application packaging interview?
Follow these tips to impress a hiring manager during your application packaging interview: Research the company and remember the job description. This can help you cater to the company’s background and job requirements in your responses. Providing customised answers can be highly impressive. Highlight your role-specific skills.
