Real, anonymous reports from people who interviewed for Software Engineer at Mercari, newest first and distilled into what to expect across the loop.
I got scheduled for the assessment on HackerRank, and I was honestly surprised by how practical it felt. There weren’t any theory questions—just two machine-coding style problems on the platform. The whole thing was framed like a coding exercise rather than a conceptual quiz.
My process started with an online assessment on HackerRank. I had two coding questions with a mix of difficulty (one medium and one hard), and the deadline for submission was about a week. It was fully remote, which made it feel straightforward scheduling-wise.
Candidates typically start with an online assessment on HackerRank, which includes practical coding problems rather than theoretical questions. Familiarity with the HackerRank platform is crucial for a smoother experience.
Following the initial assessment, candidates engage in multiple technical interviews that focus on coding, problem-solving, and system design, often emphasizing thought processes and execution over just arriving at correct answers.
Interviews also include discussions about previous experiences and fit within the company culture, with a notable emphasis on passion for Mercari's product and understanding its user perspective.
Candidates report varying experiences with communication throughout the process, with some noting a lack of transparency and timely feedback, which can lead to frustration and uncertainty.
The overall difficulty of the interview process is perceived as manageable, with a clear structure that includes a mix of coding and behavioral assessments, though some candidates felt the pressure of ambiguous questions.
Candidates suggest practicing on HackerRank and being prepared to discuss both technical and behavioral aspects thoroughly, as well as having a clear understanding of the product and its user experience.