I would wholeheartedly affirm the positive remarks about the interview process mentioned previously. Working with the recruiter and each of the interviewers was a genuinely pleasant and engaging experience.
The recruiter provided a comprehensive "what to expect" preparation packet, which included details on the level of LeetCode questions to study, the interview schedule, and the fact that it was "open book." The packet suggested focusing on Medium/Hard LeetCode problems, which many know to be a demanding and time-intensive task. The interviews followed a FAANG-style format, taking place over a span of three months, with sessions lasting over six hours. Despite being termed "open book," it was slightly unsettling that you couldn’t directly use a browser for lookups. Instead, you had to ask the interviewer to search for anything, which felt a bit awkward and unnatural.
Throughout the process, as I invested a significant amount of time in preparation, I began to question whether it was worth the effort. I already had a stable job with opportunities to advance, while this position involved a pay cut despite holding a higher-level title. By the end, it felt like undergoing a FAANG-level interview process without receiving FAANG-level compensation, a sentiment echoed by others I’ve spoken with.
In conclusion, it’s essential to weigh the costs and benefits of investing time in preparation. If you’re committing to tackling Medium/Hard LeetCode challenges, make sure the compensation aligns with the effort.