I applied through an employee referral. The process took 5 days. I interviewed at Google (Mountain View, CA) in June 2011
Interview
I submitted an application for an associate position in Dec '10 through a very senior employee. Six months later (yes, 6!) I received an email requesting an informal phone conversation. Skeptical of just how informal it would be, I prepped like mad. The call was very short and, surprisingly, very informal. Recruiter said I was not a fit for the position I had applied to back in December, but my resume contained experience relevant for another group (real estate & facilities). There were no openings at the time of the call. I was told my resume will be kept on file.
Interview process is structured and challenging. Questions focus on problem solving, behavioral fit, and communication. Interviewers are professional. Preparation is key, competition is intense, but overall a positive experience.
How would you improve Google Maps monetization
Estimate number of daily searches globally
Design a market entry strategy
Job board posting. Team performed an initial phone screen. Had a mix of qualitative and technical interviews. Thereafter, I was invited on campus for additional interviews before an offer decision was made.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Asked about my undergraduate experience, specifically courses I had taken and group projects I had worked on.
I landed the interview from a LinkedIn application. Overall, it was a friendly and professional interview process. I wasn't selected to the next round, but was informed quickly via email.