Microsoft Careers

Coding assessment on CodeSignal or Codility. Typically 2-3 algorithmic problems ranging from medium to hard difficulty.

• Practice array, string, and tree problems
• Focus on optimal time complexity
• Write clean, well-commented code
• Test with edge cases before submitting

Live coding interview on CoderPad or similar. Problem-solving discussion with an engineer from the team.

• Communicate your thought process clearly
• Ask clarifying questions
• Start with brute force, then optimize
• Discuss trade-offs openly

First of 4-5 onsite rounds. Deep dive into data structures and algorithms with coding.

• Master trees, graphs, and DP
• Practice on whiteboard or shared editor
• Verify solution with test cases
• Explain complexity analysis

Second coding round with a different interviewer. May include object-oriented design.

• Review SOLID principles
• Practice design problems
• Think about extensibility
• Use design patterns appropriately

Design a large-scale distributed system. Required for senior roles (L62+).

• Start with requirements gathering
• Draw clear architecture diagrams
• Discuss scalability and reliability
• Know Microsoft Azure services

Assessment of Microsoft values alignment, leadership, and collaboration skills.

• Prepare STAR format stories
• Know Microsoft's mission and values
• Show growth mindset examples
• Demonstrate customer focus

Final conversation with hiring manager or "As Appropriate" interviewer who makes the final recommendation.

• Show genuine interest in the team
• Ask thoughtful questions
• Be prepared for any topic
• Summarize your strengths clearly