iptiQ Software Engineer Interview Questions
& Process

First, I was given two tasks without any discussion about the project. The first was a 50-minute Hackerrank test with some easy coding problems, an algorithm coding problem (which was simple if you knew the algorithm but could be time-consuming otherwise), and multiple choice questions about the HTTP protocol. The multiple choice questions felt like they were testing memorization rather than practical skills. The other coding exercise was better, as it tested system design and code quality, but it was too time-consuming, potentially taking half a day to produce quality work. This was the very first step, with no guarantee of further contact. The exercise could have been much smaller and still tested the same skills, saving time for both candidates and the company. As part of the exercise, you're also expected to write tests and provide execution instructions if not using Kotlin. I decided to code in Kotlin despite not knowing it before to show my ability to learn. My code had comments explaining that error handling wasn't production-ready and that I could improve it later. I was rejected with feedback quoting my comments about not handling errors properly and criticizing my use of multiple data structure instances as a violation of the DRY principle, even though I had described an alternative solution. It felt like they wanted me to guess their preferred solution and might reject candidates on minor points. It seems like iptiQ expects candidates to dedicate a full day for an initial screening, or they are simply unprofessional and waste candidates' time.

I’m confused with the interview process, it was sloppy and they didn't prepare. The interviewer asked me the provided code even though they didn’t ask me to provide any code before. Also, I wasn’t expecting to solve a problem because I asked in the mail whether I’ll have live coding or not and he replied as there will not be live coding. I think they don’t know what it means. Another software developer also attended the meeting but he has no functionality in the meeting. He just watched all the interview. It was all weird.

The interview process began with an online assessment, which included algorithms and several other questions. After passing that initial stage, there were two more interviews: one focused on technical and behavioral aspects conducted in person, and another one via phone. Overall, the process felt straightforward and equitable, with the interviewers being quite friendly and professional.