The UX/Product Design Interview Process Explained (2023) - how I landed multiple FAANG offers

Interview Process Overview (FAANG): Five-step process: recruiter call, initial interview, on-site interview, team matching, and offer. Notable companies interviewed with: Google, Meta, and LinkedIn. Minor differences among big Tech interviews; official guidelines linked. Recruiter Call Tips: Treat the recruiter with respect, express gratitude for their time. Briefly introduce background within five minutes. Avoid discussing salary expectations during the initial call. Portfolio Review and App Critiques: Use a presentation for case studies during portfolio review. Be prepared for app critiques where you analyze a popular mobile app. Results determine whether you proceed to on-site interviews. On-site Interview (Interview Marathon): Multiple one-on-one or two-on-one interviews with different focus areas. Topics include design leadership, collaboration, product thinking, problem-solving, and design execution. Interactive whiteboard session (design exercise) during the on-site interview. Big Tech vs. General Tech vs. Startups: Big Tech prefers specialized roles like UX designers; General Tech and Startups may have more generalist roles like product designers. General Tech interviews may involve non-design stakeholders. Startups offer faster processes, potential direct CEO interaction, and candidates willing to take on various responsibilities are valued.