Real, anonymous reports from people who interviewed for Software Engineer at Nextdoor, newest first and distilled into what to expect across the loop.
I applied online and a recruiter reached out, starting with a short call before I got scheduled for two technical rounds. The coding portion was LeetCode-style and medium, and the accompanying system-design conversation was framed as designing Nextdoor, not just abstract architecture. After that, the process moved into an on-site style loop where I did additional technical interviewing and felt like the discussions were fair and grounded.
My process started with a coding-focused phone screen—two rounds of LeetCode-style questions—then I moved into a larger interview day. That day ended up being the usual mix of live coding plus broader evaluation, with system/design topics and behavioral woven in. Interviewers felt responsive and involved, but the pace was still intense, and I had to keep my thinking organized under time pressure.
The initial recruiter call sets the tone for the process, with candidates reporting a mix of professionalism and clarity. However, many experienced a lack of communication after technical rounds, leading to frustration and uncertainty about their performance.
Candidates typically face two technical coding interviews focused on LeetCode-style problems, ranging from easy to medium difficulty. The interviews often involve live coding, with some interviewers providing hints, which can affect candidates' performance and confidence.
In addition to coding, candidates engage in system design discussions that require practical application of architectural concepts. This aspect is emphasized in later rounds, making it crucial for candidates to prepare for both coding and design topics.
Behavioral components are integrated into the interview process, often using STAR-style questions to assess cultural fit and communication skills. Candidates noted the importance of demonstrating genuine interest in the product and teamwork.
The atmosphere during interviews varies, with some candidates experiencing supportive and collaborative interviewers, while others felt rushed or disengaged. This can significantly impact candidates' ability to perform well under pressure.
The interview process can be lengthy, often spanning several weeks with multiple rounds. Candidates appreciated a structured approach but expressed concerns about the time investment without clear outcomes or feedback.