I applied online. I interviewed at Microsoft (Prague) in Jan 2024
Interview
Four rounds, mostly focused on previous experience and "how would you deal with a situation" questions. Overall questions about system design for distributed systems, people management, conflict resolution, project management, technical excellence. No algo.
I talked to the Hiring Manager for the V*** E***** team. The call went well and ended with if I would be intersted in pursuing the role. It's an obvious yes from my side. Despite multiple follow-ups after the initial conversation, there was no response for weeks.
Candidates are taking time from their calendar to meet with you. A person's need & interest should be respected with a prompt response in a professional setting. In hindsight, it also hints how the experience would be working with the HM.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Initial background call focused on my background and talking through the job responsibilities.
I applied through an employee referral. The process took 2 weeks. I interviewed at Microsoft
Interview
Some scheduling challenges, but overall a straightforward online process.
Had a Screening round and then 4 rounds were assigned with varied topics ranging from people, team management, technical skills and system design skills
Principal Software Engineering Manager applicants have rated the interview process at Microsoft with 3 out of 5 (where 5 is the highest level of difficulty) and assessed their interview experience as 33% positive. To compare, the company-average is 66.4% positive. This is according to Glassdoor user ratings.
Candidates applying for Principal Software Engineering Manager roles take an average of 21 days to get hired, when considering 3 user submitted interviews for this role. To compare, the hiring process at Microsoft overall takes an average of 30 days.
Common stages of the interview process at Microsoft as a Principal Software Engineering Manager according to 3 Glassdoor interviews include:
Phone interview: 33%
One on one interview: 33%
Background check: 17%
Skills test: 17%
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