Real, anonymous reports from people who interviewed for Software Engineer at National Grid, newest first and distilled into what to expect across the loop.
My process felt oddly short and gated. I went through a first stage that was more than just a chat: it included behavioural questions, a CV review, and a presentation. I was told clearly that if I made it through to the second stage it would basically be a formality, with the role already secured.
My first encounters with National Grid were heavily digital and a bit game-like. The process started with video screening where I recorded answers to questions on screen, and I had the chance to re-record until I was satisfied. Before moving on, there were multiple assessment-style games, including memory and pattern-matching tasks, plus a personality-type prompt where I selected between images.
The interview process typically begins with a digital screening that includes a pre-recorded video interview and various assessment games focused on cognitive skills and personality traits. Candidates should prepare for timed responses and multiple attempts for each question.
Most interviews emphasize behavioral questions that assess candidates' alignment with company values and situational reasoning. Candidates should be ready to discuss past experiences and how they relate to the company's core principles.
The technical portion of the interviews varies, with some candidates experiencing in-depth technical discussions while others report a lack of technical focus. Prepare for role-specific technical questions and case studies that may require problem-solving and structured thinking.
The interview process is generally structured, often involving multiple rounds that may include panel interviews and presentations. Candidates should expect a mix of formats, including both live and recorded sessions, and should be prepared for a variety of question types.
Candidates frequently report inconsistent communication throughout the process, with delays in feedback and updates on application status. It is advisable to follow up proactively if there are long periods of silence after interviews.
The overall experience can vary significantly, with some candidates finding the process straightforward and others feeling frustrated by the timeline and lack of clarity. Candidates should be mentally prepared for a potentially lengthy process and varying levels of difficulty across different stages.