MS
Technology

Microsoft

Empowering every person and organisation on the planet

Redmond, USA
220,000+ Employees
GBP 75,000–110,000 (software engineer L59, London)
Hard

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Overview

Microsoft is one of the world's largest technology companies with 220,000+ employees. Their recruitment process emphasises 'growth mindset' (Carol Dweck's framework) and collaborative problem-solving. Microsoft's interview process is known for being more collaborative and less adversarial than Google or Amazon.

Application Process

1

Online Application

30 min

CV and application form.

2

Online Assessment

45-60 min

Cognitive ability test and/or coding assessment for technical roles.

3

Phone Screen

45-60 min

1 technical or behavioural screen.

4

Loop Interviews (4-5 rounds)

Full day

4-5 interviews in one day. Technical roles: coding + system design + behavioural. Business roles: case study + behavioural.

Test Types

Cognitive Ability Assessment

Used by: Microsoft proprietary

30-45 min

Tests logical reasoning, numerical reasoning, and problem-solving. Used for business and operations roles.

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Coding Assessment (technical roles)

Used by: Microsoft proprietary / HackerRank

60-90 min

Algorithmic problems. Medium difficulty. Focus on data structures, algorithms, and object-oriented design.

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Sample Question

Practice Question

Growth Mindset Interview: Tell me about a time you received critical feedback. How did you respond?

Insider Tips

Microsoft's culture is built on 'growth mindset'. Every interview question is an opportunity to demonstrate learning agility and openness to feedback.

Microsoft interviews are collaborative. Interviewers often give hints. Accept them gracefully and build on them.

For coding interviews, think out loud. Microsoft values the problem-solving process as much as the correct answer.

Microsoft values 'empathy'. Demonstrate how you consider the impact of your work on users, colleagues, and society.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick Facts

IndustryTechnology
DifficultyHard
HeadquartersRedmond, USA
Employees220,000+
Salary RangeGBP 75,000–110,000 (software engineer L59, London)

Graduate Roles

Software EngineerProduct ManagerData ScientistCloud Solution ArchitectAccount ExecutiveProgram Manager

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