UserGems Interview Questions
& Process

First, you'll need to record a short video (3-5 minutes) using Loom.com to answer a few prompts. This video replaces the usual phone screen and lets the hiring manager learn about what drives you, how you think, and why you're interested in UserGems. After submitting your video link, there will be a 30-minute interview with the Sales Leader, which is more of a conversation to get to know you, your strengths, weaknesses, etc. You'll also have about 10 minutes at the end to ask questions.

I really liked the interview process. I first answered some HR questions via email. Then, I had a test task where I had to solve two algorithm problems. After they reviewed my solutions, I was invited to an interview with a senior developer to discuss my solutions and have a general theoretical discussion. The next step involved a big, paid test task that took all day. Following its review, I was invited to interview with the director of engineering, where we discussed my solution and talked about the company's processes. Unfortunately, I was rejected at this stage, but I'm grateful for the experience!

Got an email from the recruiter, and the initial screen went great. Then I had an interview with the hiring manager, which also went well. After that, I got a take-home assignment, which was about 4 pages of text describing a product they were building. They asked me to think about all aspects of a 0-1 product, including a list of over 10 things like user stories and wireframes. They said not to spend more than 8 hours and to get back to them in 48 hours. I pushed back on the timing since I have a job and a life, and they agreed. It was days of work, so I crammed what I could do in about 8 hours. Then I had a review with the HM, cofounder, and a leader. They were multitasking during the presentation, so we had to adjourn. It went silent for a week, so I followed up. Then silence for another week. I followed up again to say I was withdrawing. They finally got back to me saying I was great but wanted more wireframes. I followed up suggesting we narrow down the case to what's most important to avoid wasting everyone's time. Either immature hiring practices or immature overall. Either way, it wasn't meant to be.

I interviewed for this role as part of my regular practice to stay sharp, even though I wasn't planning on taking the job because the salary was lower than my current one. This let me be objective. I got to the final interview stage. The first two interviews went well, with good people and positive vibes. It was clear they're a young company and expect a lot from employees, which is common for startups. The mock assignment they requested was way too much work for the pay offered, which was on the lower side for this role. The final interview was with the head of CS and another team lead. These two guys were smarmy and egotistical and immediately put me off. They dominated the conversation and were so arrogant. I was completely uninterested in the company after that. It seemed mutual, as I didn't get an offer. I can't recommend this company if that's the culture.