Life at Google
Hi there! It’s been more than a year since I joined Google as a Software Engineer. A lot has happened over the last year. Therefore, here’s another story with snippets of my journey so far at Google.
P.S. You can find my interview preparation routine here.
The “Noogler” phase
Well, it all starts with a 3-week Google Technical Immersion(GTI) program. It’s the very first thing every new hire goes through before working with their actual team. All the new hires in APAC region fly to Singapore for an exciting 3 weeks event. But, it has been made virtual for quite some time now, courtesy COVID. Here, you & a small Noogler team work on a project using Google’s tools, processes and methodologies.
After getting my Noogler hat & the successful completion of GTI, I joined Google Cloud organisation and my onboarding was virtual. It took me some time to get acquainted with the cool “Google infrastructure” and honestly the first few weeks were quite overwhelming. Nevertheless, my team mates were supportive and helped me settle in. I really appreciate how everyone here respects Google’s values.
If you’re in the same boat, give yourself some time and things will start making sense. You’ll get sufficient time for onboarding and everyone around you will be happy to help! Don’t hesitate to ask.
Noogler → Googler
Show time!! It’s always amazing to build things. I still remember the joy of submitting my first change in Google’s codebase.
I worked across several backend and frontend technologies. I got the opportunity to contribute in a breadth of projects and also implement a few features e2e from scratch which helped me grow in my role & I learnt a lot out of it. The tech stack I used was Java server side and Angular, TS for the frontend.
I worked from home all along and Google helped in creating an office like environment at home. I also received a couple of swags during this time :D
Google India → Google London
An important milestone in my journey was when I decided to switch teams and move to London.
Transfers in Google are highly encouraged. There is an ample of help & resources available for you to Grow(:p), but you got to take the lead! As they say, “You” are in charge of your own career at Google. Many of the reasons why I’m a supporter of Google’s culture, their values & philosophy.
I didn’t have to take all the interviews again since I wanted to stay in the same job role i.e. Software Engineering. I connected with some hiring managers & they all walked me through the role, opportunity & current projects in their teams. I had further discussions with some Technical Leads & team members before making a decision.
Last week, I have joined Google Ads team in London and I can not wait to explore Ads ecosystem and create an impact.
Edit 1: I’ve received a bunch of queries regarding why I switched teams and why “London”? I believe deciding the location is very subjective. For me, I wanted to get some global exposure and travel across Europe.
You may read my travel blogs here.
Edit 2: Find Google London office tour here.
