I applied through a recruiter. The process took 2 months. I interviewed at Rakuten
Interview
A small online coding challenge before any interviews; one hour timed, solving a math problem (calculate area of two, possibly overlapping rectangles) as effectively as possible. Results not shared to the interviewee, except as passing to the next round. Also had to take an English test (I chose TOEIC, some others would have been acceptable, too), passing the required level with flying colors.
All interviews took place online, over Skype, as I was not living in Japan. Application was for a position in any unit, and had two interviews on the first round, one of which I passed. A short, half-hour interview with one or two technical managers of the unit, talking about background, skills and aspirations. The following three rounds were with managers higher up in the ladder, with an assignment to read and write short essays on a couple of the CEOs books inbetween.
Applied online. Initial screening with the hiring manager. Questions from resume. Technologies used. Java basic questions. Salary expectations. About the role and team. Leetcode question - no coding - just mention the approach. System design question.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Leetcode question - no coding - just mention the approach. System design question.
Disorganized, no HR reached out to discuss about the administrative details and salary and benefits, the hiring manager reached out directly, scheduled a meeting and asked about HR questions(visa, RTO etc.)
The hiring manager was late for over 5 mins minutes, no apologies, no greetings. Negative experience
The interview covered Python libraries, networking, and my software engineering experience. While questions were basic, they can be tricky for seniors. Review your definitions alongside your past projects to succeed.