Round 1: Phone Screen Interview
Questions: The interviewer shared a problem on Google Docs related to multi-source BFS. The problem required applying graph traversal techniques to analyze relationships within a dataset.
Follow-up Questions:
- Handle an edge case where certain elements had unique constraints.
- Adjust the approach to extract additional insights from the computed results.
- Propose a different algorithmic strategy when the problem constraints changed.
Candidate's Approach
I quickly identified that multi-source BFS would be an efficient approach and implemented the solution.
Interviewer's Feedback
The feedback was exceptionally positive, and the recruiter encouraged me to proceed with the onsite rounds.
Round 2: Onsite Interviews
Questions:
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Onsite Round 1: DSA
The first problem was related to graphs, focusing on when to use BFS over DFS.- Follow-up: How to find the longest cycle in an undirected graph.
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Onsite Round 2: DSA
This problem was a mix of DSA and system design, focusing on queues. -
Onsite Round 3: DSA
The problem required identifying connected components within a structured dataset. The interviewer asked for my own test cases to verify my approach.- Follow-ups included counting the number of distinct components, determining the size of each component, and identifying unique patterns among the components.
Candidate's Approach
I ensured not to assume the input format and clarified whether I needed to determine the structure myself. My prior practice helped me recognize similar patterns and adapt efficiently.
Interviewer's Feedback
No feedback provided.
Round 3: Googliness Round
Questions:
The interviewer initially thought it was another technical round and gave me a DSA problem. After clarifying, we had a deep dive into one of my personal projects listed on my resume, focusing on UI/UX design despite applying for a backend role.
Standard behavioral questions included:
- How do you handle conflicts in a team?
- How would you mentor a new intern?
Candidate's Approach
I was prepared to discuss every detail of my resume, regardless of my target role, and structured my answers to highlight teamwork, leadership, adaptability, and problem-solving mindset.
Interviewer's Feedback
No feedback provided.