Google

Preparing for our application and interview process

Ready to apply for an internship or a full-time job at Google? Here's what you'll need:

• An updated resume
• An up-to-date transcript from your university (unofficial is fine)
• A regularly checked email address, as this will be your primary contact point

Finally, don't forget that in some cases, additional information will be listed in the job description.

1. Focus on your resume
   

   Your resume is the first piece of information we'll see about you. Here's how to highlight your achievements, incorporate minimum requirements, and additional skills:

   • Align your skills and experience with the internship or job description, paying special attention to the Minimum Qualifications (MQs) for the role.
   • Be specific about projects you've worked on or managed. What was the outcome? How did you measure success?
     • Try using variations of the following formula: Accomplished [X], as measured by [Y], by doing [Z].
   • If you've had a leadership role in a volunteer organization or at a part-time job, tell us about it. How big was the team? What was the scope of your work? Experience comes in many different forms.
   • Include projects or coursework that demonstrate relevant skills and knowledge. For students, this may include GPA — check the job description carefully for requirements.
   • Keep it short: Aim for one page. If there's additional information we need during the hiring process (like a portfolio), your recruiter will work with you to collect it.
     • Tip: ask yourself, if someone only had a few minutes to read it, would they be able to find relevant information quickly?
       
       
2. Prepare for the interview process
   
   
   • Once you've submitted your application online, our Recruiting team will review your resume, transcript, and any supplementary materials. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and timelines can vary.
   • The next step in the process is a series of assessments or interviews to assess your skills.
   • For technical interviews, practice coding on a whiteboard, in Google Docs, or over the phone.
   • Write down 10-20 questions you think you'll get and practice possible answers for each one.
   • Structure your interview answers: It's important to show how you arrive at a solution, so think out loud, give context on your answers, add data points where you can, and please don't be afraid to ask questions.
     
     
3. Helpful questions to think about as you prepare
   
   
   • How do you work best, both as an individual and as part of a team?
   • What challenges have you faced at school or at work and how did you overcome them?
   • What was the impact of your accomplishments, projects, or leadership experiences? What changed? What has been improved? Was a goal achieved? How did you measure success?
   • Which of your skills or experiences would be assets in the role and why?

   If you don't understand a question, ask your interviewers for clarification and take the time you need with responses. Your interviewer is there to help you.