Real, anonymous reports from people who interviewed for Software Engineer at Elsevier, newest first and distilled into what to expect across the loop.
After a recruiter call, I joined a virtual interview that mostly felt like a relaxed conversation. The HR side was general and behavioral, and I talked through my background and the kinds of academic and extracurricular activities I’d been involved in. The vibe was friendly and low-pressure, with room for normal back-and-forth rather than rapid-fire questions.
My journey started with a short, smooth set of rounds: I ended up going through two technical/management-style interviews and then an HR round. What surprised me was how heavily the focus stayed on my behavior and how I approached things, not on grilling me on raw technical depth. The process itself felt organized and fast, and I was told things clearly along the way.
The interview process typically starts with a recruiter call, followed by multiple rounds that may include technical interviews, behavioral assessments, and sometimes presentations. Candidates should expect a mix of informal discussions and structured evaluations across various stages.
Technical interviews often involve coding exercises, logic questions, and sometimes live coding sessions, with a focus on practical problem-solving rather than theoretical puzzles. Candidates should prepare for a range of technical topics relevant to the role, including full-stack development.
Behavioral questions are a significant component of the interviews, focusing on past experiences, teamwork, and cultural fit. Candidates should be ready to discuss their approach to challenges and how they align with the company's values.
Communication throughout the process can vary significantly, with some candidates experiencing timely updates and others facing long delays or a lack of feedback. It's important to remain proactive in seeking updates and clarifications.
The overall tone of interviews tends to be friendly and low-pressure, with interviewers often encouraging open dialogue. Candidates should expect a collaborative atmosphere where they can ask questions and engage with interviewers.
Candidates report variability in the length and efficiency of the interview process, with some experiencing quick turnarounds and others facing prolonged timelines with unclear outcomes. It's advisable to prepare for potential delays and manage expectations accordingly.