Here are a few details and some suggestions to help you know what to expect—in any interview.
Go Beyond Basic Research
Sure, we expect you to know about our company, our businesses, industry trends, and the position you're seeking. But dig deeper. If you know people who work at Microsoft, ask them about the interview process and what to expect.
Know Your Area of Expertise
You'll be asked to demonstrate your level of knowledge in your chosen field. For example, here are a few things to be aware of when interviewing for one of our core technical positions:
Software Design Engineer (SDE) and Software Design Engineer in Test (SDET):
| •
| You'll be asked to write a lot of code. Our interviewers love to ask questions related to linked lists, arrays, pointers, and such.
|
| •
| You may be asked to solve deliberately ambiguous problems. Ask clarifying questions before you jump in, and be prepared to explain your thinking.
|
| •
| During an SDET interview, we'll want to get an idea of your capacity to build an application and then break it through testing. So expect some targeted questions about how you'd go about testing various software designs. |
Program Manager (PM):
| •
| Keep in mind that great Program Managers must have a good customer focus, creativity, and strong design skills, so expect challenging design questions. Some typical examples would be: What constitutes good design? What technical issues are involved? How would you improve on the design of something that already exists? |
Be Prepared to Ask Meaningful Questions
The questions you ask us are an important part of any interview. They demonstrate your level of understanding, your interests, and your passions. So don't hold back.
Relax
We already view you as a top candidate. Now you can just relax and let your natural enthusiasm come through. And dress casually. Wear whatever makes you most comfortable. Chances are, that's exactly what your interviewers will be wearing.
Tools 
