I applied through a recruiter. The process took 4 weeks. I interviewed at Airbnb (San Francisco, CA) in May 2018
Interview
After a lengthy wait before I got a screening call from the hiring manager. She called me 36 minutes late for a 30 minute call. Asked me some questions about previous positions, then said I was then selected for an onsite.
Having made quite a lot of arrangements to attend the onsite, I was notified less than 2 hours before the interview that I didn't have to come in because they had made an offer to another candidate that morning that was further along in the process.
It's extremely disappointing because I had applied over a month before and attended every interview at the earliest date they gave me. Not only is it completely unfair that I was not given the same opportunities to prove my credentials, but the hiring managers conduct throughout the process was completely disrespectful of me and my time.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Talking me through your previous experiences / tell me a bit about yourself
I applied online. The process took 2 weeks. I interviewed at Airbnb in May 2025
Interview
The process was smooth, and the recruiter, recruiting coordinator, and hiring manager I spoke with were all very helpful. I didn't get an offer, but the process was good and informative.
Ah, the interview process! It can feel like navigating a maze, but generally, it follows a fairly common structure. Here's a breakdown of what you can typically expect:
Submitting your application: This is the first step, where you send in your resume, and cover letter, and sometimes complete an online application form.
Initial screening: Recruiters or hiring managers review applications to see if your qualifications and experience match the basic requirements of the role. They might be looking for specific keywords or years of experience.
Phone or video screening interview: If your application passes the initial screen, you might be invited for a brief call or video chat. This is usually a 15-30 minute conversation to learn more about your background, clarify information on your resume, and assess your basic communication skills and interest in the role.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
In-depth conversations: These interviews are longer and more detailed than the screening call. You'll likely speak with a hiring manager or a member of the team you'd be working with.
Behavioral software question first step interview. Interview lasted 25 minutes. Never heard back after first round. Straightforward and clean process. More technical than anything. Basic questions asked on past skills and products built.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Tell me if you built something by yourself or with the help of the engineering team?