I applied in-person. The process took 6 weeks. I interviewed at Google (Mountain View, CA) in Jun 2011
Interview
i was directly interviewed by several top executives, so this isn't very relevant to most interviewers. if you are, they'll sometimes spring it on you, in my case i got a 15 minute heads up. one of the founders asked me a question that i thought was a terrible interview question, and i refused to give an answer (he was asking me to estimate some technical quantity of their datacenters, and i insisted that i would not guesstimate it but i described how i would measure it and where i would expect the weaknesses in the design would be). one executive asked me why i was using the iPhone and not the Android, and i said the Android still sucked (this was years ago). they still hired me, which i took as a very positive thing; this is not a culture that has a problem with being challenged. it's an innovative, creative environment, that welcomes a debate.
I applied through an employee referral. The process took 2 months. I interviewed at Google in Sep 2024
Interview
Interview process was slightly longer than other companies. Coordinating scheduled on the calendar and email responses were slower than other larger tech companies that I was talking to at the same time.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
What is the most difficult decision you had to make as a manager?
A good interview process is thorough yet respectful, focusing on both skills and cultural fit. It involves clear communication, structured assessments, diverse interview panels, and opportunities for candidates to showcase their abilities while also learning about the company's values and goals.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Can you provide an example of a challenging situation you encountered in a previous role, and how you successfully navigated through it?
3 quick interviews - asked about past jobs. Was also asked to white board on architecture and execution. Was interviewed by a Director, Principal Engineer and another Director. 45 minute interviews. Made an offer the next week.
