I've interviewed with Google multiple times and have shared the technical details of my preparation and the questions here.

Don’t skip this post! You might be tempted to focus solely on the interview questions, but this insight could save you from unnecessary stress and even potential job loss.

I’ve worked at two FANG companies, and in my latest Google interview, I received a "Strong Hire" recommendation. So, my observations are genuine and unbiased, not born out of frustration.

Key Takeaways from My Google Interview Experience:

1. It's a Gamble - When I got my first call from Google in 2021, I noticed the recruiters didn't rush the process. They ask how much time you need before the first round, and people generally request for 1-2 months to prepare thoroughly. While this prep time can significantly improve your skills, it can also negatively impact your current job performance. Balancing intense preparation with work responsibilities is tough and can affect your appraisal and even job security.

2. Care about your job - You might think it's worth the gamble because it's Google. But trust me, they only hire if you provide the exact solution they want. Even the second-best solution won't cut it. In 2021, after two months of intense preparation and neglecting my job, my first-round question was a Range Sum Query. The ideal solution involves a Segment Tree, but I hadn't learned about it. I proposed a dynamic programming solution with O(N^2) pre-computation and O(1) query complexity. Despite trying to adapt my answer, the interviewer asked if I knew Segment Trees, and when I said no, they gave me a "No Hire." All my late-night studies of trees, graphs, greedy algorithms, and DP were dismissed in 45 minutes. I returned to work with improved DSA skills but missed deliverables.

3. Google HR is the worst - Literally! Even if you clear the rounds, your fate lies with the HR team, who might not always act professionally. Initially, I thought it was just my experience, but I found 18 others offline and many online who were ghosted by HR after completing their interviews. In 2023, after clearing the Googliness round, HR said they would get back to me in a week. That week stretched into months, and eventually a whole year, with excuses like a hiring freeze and specific skill requirements.
   I reached out to HMs, and with help, my packet was transferred to another HR who ghosted me too. I was finally told to redo some rounds. I did, received a "Strong Hire," but HC rejected my packet, stating HR didn’t have the authority to re-interview candidates. It was clear that HR didn’t understand or respect the process due to the sheer volume of candidates.

Final Thoughts:

1. It's ok to fail - Preparing for Google will undoubtedly enhance your skills, but don’t jeopardize your current job. Many people don’t get in on their first attempt. Even an interviewer told me it’s common for successful candidates to join after multiple tries.
2. Be Cautious with HR - Approach them proactively and carefully. Their handling of candidates can be unprofessional, and it’s crucial to navigate this part of the process wisely.

Hope this helps you in your journey!