I applied through college or university. The process took 4 weeks. I interviewed at IBM in Aug 2012
Interview
My experience started in August with a trip to my University's career fair. After discussing my resume, shaking hands, talking about my interests, etc. I was handed multiple individuals business cards and told to apply online for a couple different positions as well as take their aptitude test online (the one with the math and other items).
I applied online to 3 (maybe 4 - I can't remember since it was a while ago) positions and about a week later, got the "Thanks but no thanks" declination email for all of my applications. So, I looked into other companies and accepted an offer.
Fast forward a couple weeks:
I get a call from a representative at IBM saying that I was going to be extended an offer and that details had already been sent to me (I checked my email while on the phone and there they were). I asked if they had the right person and they responded with my name. I was surprised to say the least and explained to them how I was told to try again next year a couple weeks ago and ask why I was being approached now. They said that after looking over my application, they thought I would be a great fit.
I declined on the spot over the phone because I had already accepted an offer a week earlier.
There were no interviews (save for my conversation at the career fair), no questions other than the aptitude test, just an offer out of the blue.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
The most unexpected part was getting an offer (a very competitive one at that) even though I went through no interview process and was earlier rejected.
The most difficult part was their online aptitude test (and it was only the hardest because it was the ONLY thing I had to do)
Applied through the company portal, completed an online coding assessment, followed by a technical interview covering data structures, algorithms, OOP concepts, and project experience. Concluded with an HR discussion about the role, career goals, availability, and compensation expectations.
## IBM Interview Process
The process began with initial resume shortlisting, followed by competitive **DSA and coding rounds** to test core technical concepts. After clearing those, I cleared two comprehensive interviews with the **Hiring Manager/Tech Expert** and **HR**.
Describe the interview process: The process consisted of three rounds: an initial online assessment focusing on data structures and algorithms, followed by two technical video interviews. The technical rounds were intensive, covering system design, live coding, and deep-dive questions into previous project experience and database optimization.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Design a scalable URL shortener system and explain how you would handle high read/write throughput.