Preparing for your interview
Google’s interview process will vary by position but you can generally expect to have 1st round interviews over the phone or on-campus and 2nd round interviews on-site at Google.
Interview Process
1st round interviews will either take place at your university campus or via phone. Both phone and in-person interviews are 30–45 minutes long and qualitative and open-ended in nature. The goal of the interview is to gain a better understanding of your problem solving abilities, communication style, leadership skills and passion for Google.
2nd round interviews will take place on-site at Google. 2nd rounds usually take a half-full day – depending on where you are traveling from – and consist of two to four back-to-back interviews with our Googlers.
Who will you interview with?
The interviews for the 1st and 2nd stage Googlers will be conducted by the department for which you have applied. For example, if you are interviewing for Software Engineering, will be interviewed by a member of the Software Engineering Department.
Please note that interviews are conducted in English and you must have a sound mastery of the language in order to describe your ideas clearly. This is essential as all positions interact directly with Googlers from the United States and other countries.
Interview Content and Preparation
Your Background: Your interviewer may ask you a little bit about your work and academic background. Please prepare yourself for these questions beforehand.
Problem Solving: We’re interested in learning more about how you solve problems. These questions will require you to walk us through a complicated scenario and discuss how you concluded your answer. Don’t worry about being right or wrong – just answer to the best of your ability.
How to answer: Please be yourself. Here at Google, we believe in bringing your whole self to work and making the best possible match for you and for Google. We encourage you to be candid and active in your interview and to answer your questions clearly and concisely. If you need to take a moment and think through your answers, please do. It will help you and your interviewer understand your thoughts more clearly.
What to wear: At Google, you can be serious without a suit. While we have no formal dress code, you should look presentable during the day of your interview. Business casual is fine.
What to bring: Please bring an extra copy of your resume and your unofficial undergraduate/graduate transcripts.