Real, anonymous reports from people who interviewed for Software Engineer at Next insurance, newest first and distilled into what to expect across the loop.
After a recruiter phone call, I ended up taking an in-office assessment that caught me off guard. I’d been told to expect something LeetCode-like, so I showed up mentally prepared for typical coding problems—but the questions felt more like Java and SQL fundamentals, including syntax, design patterns, inheritance, and related topics. It wasn’t purely algorithmic; it leaned toward how you think about OOP structure and language mechanics.
I had an initial phone call with them, and then they scheduled a day for an in-office exam. I tried to change that date about two weeks ahead because of a personal reason, and I expected at least some communication. They canceled me and then stopped replying—no explanation, no follow-up.
The interview process typically begins with an initial phone call, which may include a discussion of your background and motivations. Candidates should be prepared for both technical and behavioral questions during this stage.
Candidates can expect a coding assessment that may include both LeetCode-style algorithmic questions and fundamental programming concepts, such as OOP principles and SQL syntax. It's important to prepare for a mix of coding challenges rather than solely algorithmic problems.
Some candidates will be required to complete a home assignment, which does not have a strict deadline, followed by an interview to discuss the assignment. This step is crucial as it serves as a bridge between technical skills and recruiting discussions.
A design interview is typically included in the later stages, focusing on system design questions, such as planning an elevator system. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their design thinking and problem-solving approach during this round.
Candidates have reported inconsistent communication throughout the process, including instances of being ghosted or receiving little feedback after interviews. It's advisable to follow up proactively, especially if there are delays or uncertainties.
Candidates have expressed frustration over a lack of transparency regarding the decision-making process, especially when they felt they performed well. It's important to manage expectations and seek clarity on the criteria for success.
