I had a great experience interviewing with the hiring manager. The process included a machine coding round on an online platform, where I built a React app (details omitted to avoid spoilers). As a first-timer for this format, I solved it with some struggle but couldn't complete all requirements in time, which cost me the round.
That said, the feedback was incredibly positive and motivating. The interviewer highlighted what I did well, inspired me to keep improving, and geeked out on the details. This is how frontend interviews should be: build something real, then dive into refinements!