I applied in October 2021 with a referral.

Two weeks later, I was sent an online coding assessment.

After passing that, a recruiter reached out via email to set up a call to discuss my background.

I was scheduled for a virtual onsite three weeks later. It consisted of five rounds, each with a Google SWE:

• A 30-minute "Googlyness" round
• Four 45-minute coding rounds

The "Googlyness" interview was a good way to start, and my recruiter said I excelled in that round.

The coding rounds were very challenging. I recommend practicing LeetCode medium questions.

I did not pass because my speed was too slow, even though my thought process and walkthrough were excellent, according to the feedback.

Signed NDA.

You should practice LeetCode medium questions and talk out loud while you practice them.

You should really know your binary trees and graphs.

Also, do not skimp on the "behavioral Googlyness" interview. They need to know that you are good at working on a team and communicating with others.

During the coding rounds, make sure to always ask clarifying questions before coding and explain your initial approach in detail. And always talk while coding!