I Asked Googlers How To Get Hired

Summary

This video features Google software engineers sharing insights on how to land a job at the tech giant. With over 10 years of experience, these engineers provide valuable advice on acing interviews, focusing on communication, strong technical fundamentals, and showcasing problem-solving approaches. They emphasize preparation through coding practice, such as using LeetCode and system design challenges, and discuss the importance of clear communication and teamwork. The video also highlights personal experiences, favorite perks at Google, and tips for navigating the hiring process, including advice for aspiring software engineers and product managers.

Takeaways

• 💼 Successful applicants at Google focus on communicating their thought process during interviews.
• 👩‍💻 Many successful engineers emphasize strong fundamentals in coding, system design, and algorithms.
• 📚 Preparing with platforms like LeetCode and 'Cracking the Coding Interview' is a common strategy for interview success.
• 🔑 Strong communication skills, particularly explaining technical concepts clearly, are crucial for both interviews and teamwork.
• 🚪 Being able to break down and explain problems step-by-step is valued over complicated solutions.
• 🍽 Free food and global office opportunities are favorite perks of Google employees.
• 💡 Problem-solving for large user bases and considering scalability is advised when preparing for interviews.
• 🎓 Traditional education paths, such as college and internships, are considered the easiest way into tech, but alternatives like boot camps are also viable.
• 📝 Tailoring your resume to showcase your best skills and achievements is critical for standing out during the hiring process.
• 🧠 Product managers at Google bridge technical possibilities with business needs, requiring strong communication skills, especially with non-technical stakeholders.

Q & A

What do Google interviewers look for in a software engineering candidate?

Google interviewers look for candidates who can clearly explain their thought process, communicate their approach to solving problems, and have a strong grasp of core technical fundamentals like data structures, algorithms, and system design.

What is one of the most important tips for preparing for a Google interview?

One of the most important tips is to focus on practicing with problems related to data structures and algorithms using platforms like LeetCode and resources like 'Cracking the Coding Interview.'

What specific advice do Google engineers give for passing the interview?

Candidates should focus on explaining their thought process, approaching problems step by step, and ensuring a solid foundation in the basics rather than focusing on overly complex solutions.

What should applicants include in their resumes to stand out?

Applicants should present the best and most relevant accomplishments and skills on their resume. Since this is the only information recruiters have initially, showcasing their best work is essential.

How important is practicing coding problems before the interview?

Practicing coding problems is crucial. Several engineers in the video mentioned that regularly solving practice problems helped them perform better during their interviews.

How can candidates approach solving technical problems during interviews?

Candidates should start by clarifying the problem, then gradually build a solution. It's important to first propose a simple solution, test it, and then improve upon it if necessary.

What is the value of internships or early work experience when applying to Google?

Internships and early relevant work experience, such as internships through Google programs or at other companies, are valuable for gaining practical experience and increasing the chances of being hired at Google.

How can non-traditional candidates break into Google?

While the traditional college route is the easiest path, non-traditional candidates, such as those coming from boot camps or transitioning from other fields later in life, can still be successful if they develop strong technical skills.

What advice is given for product managers and women in tech looking to break into Google?

For product managers, it's important to bridge the gap between technical and business requirements. Women in tech are advised to focus on their technical skills while also becoming strong communicators, especially when working with non-technical stakeholders.

What is one of the best benefits of working at Google mentioned in the video?

Several employees mentioned that free food, including breakfast and lunch, is one of their favorite perks of working at Google. The international office locations are also valued, allowing employees to work from different cities while traveling.