1. Application & Recruiter Screening

After submitting my application, a Google recruiter reached out within a week. We had a brief call to discuss my background, skills (Java, Spring Boot, Node.js), and interests. The recruiter also explained the process and what to expect.

1. Online Coding Assessment

I was sent a HackerRank-style coding test with a couple of algorithmic problems focusing on data structures, time complexity, and problem-solving. I used Java to solve the questions within the allotted time.

1. Technical Phone Interviews (x2)

I had two 45-minute phone interviews with Google engineers. They shared a collaborative coding doc (like Google Docs), and I was asked to:

• Solve algorithm problems (e.g., arrays, trees, graphs).
• Discuss time and space complexity.
• Explain and optimize my solutions.

Due to remote flexibility, mine was virtual. I had 4 technical rounds:

• 2 coding interviews: More complex algorithm questions.
• 1 system design: I was asked to design a scalable service (I chose a URL shortener). I explained architecture, database choices, and trade-offs.
• 1 behavioral interview: Focused on collaboration, past challenges, and how I reflect Google’s core values.

1. Hiring Committee & Offer

After the interviews, my feedback was reviewed by a hiring committee. A couple of weeks later, the recruiter called me to say I passed! 🎉 We discussed the role, team match, and I received an offer.

How would you design a scalable URL shortening service like bit.ly?