Software Engineer

Software EngineerL1Medium

This interview process is for a Software Engineer (L1) role at Societe Generale. It aims to assess foundational technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit.

Rounds·4

Timeline·~7d

Experience·0 - 2 yrs

Comp band·US$60000 - US$75000

Interview time·150 min

Evaluation

What they measure.

  • Problem-solving skills
  • Technical knowledge (programming languages, data structures, algorithms)
  • Communication and interpersonal skills
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Cultural fit and alignment with Societe Generale's values

Preparation

How to prepare.

Tips

  1. Review fundamental computer science concepts (data structures, algorithms, operating systems, databases).
  2. Practice coding problems on platforms like LeetCode or HackerRank, focusing on easy to medium difficulty.
  3. Understand the basics of object-oriented programming and design patterns.
  4. Research Societe Generale's business, values, and recent projects.
  5. Prepare to discuss your resume in detail, highlighting relevant projects and experiences.
  6. Practice behavioral questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
  7. Be ready to ask thoughtful questions about the role, team, and company.

Study plan

Fig · Study plan — 04 phases

01 / 04
01

Phase 01 of 04

Data Structures Fundamentals

Week 1: Data Structures (Arrays, Lists, Stacks, Queues, Trees, Graphs) & basic algorithms.

Week 1: Focus on core data structures (arrays, linked lists, stacks, queues, trees, graphs) and their common operations and time complexities. Practice basic algorithm problems related to these structures.

Questions

Commonly asked.

  • Can you explain the difference between a process and a thread?
  • What is a deadlock and how can it be prevented?
  • Describe a situation where you had to debug a complex piece of code. How did you approach it?
  • Write a function to reverse a string.
  • Explain the concept of polymorphism with an example.
  • How would you design a simple URL shortener?
  • Tell me about a time you failed. What did you learn from it?
  • What are your strengths and weaknesses as a software engineer?
  • Why are you interested in working at Societe Generale?

Locations

Regional differences.

Fig · Regions — 03 locations

01 / 03

Location

Paris

Interview focus

Adaptability to local work cultureCommunication skills in the local languageUnderstanding of local market trends

Common questions

  • Tell me about a challenging project you worked on.
  • How do you handle tight deadlines?
  • Describe a time you disagreed with a teammate.

Tips

  • Research Societe Generale's presence and projects in this specific region.
  • Be prepared to discuss your understanding of the local tech ecosystem.
  • Practice articulating your thoughts clearly in the primary language of the office.

Rounds

Round-by-round.

Expand a step for evaluation criteria, sample questions, and prep notes.

Easy

HR Screening · 30 min · HR Recruiter

This initial round is conducted by an HR representative to understand your background, motivation for applying, and general fit with Societe Generale's culture. They will ask about your resume, career aspirations, and why you are interested in this specific role and company. It's also an opportunity for you to ask initial questions about the company and the role.

What they look for

Clear communication.Basic problem-solving skills.Positive attitude.

Evaluation

  • Basic understanding of programming concepts.
  • Ability to follow instructions.
  • Enthusiasm for the role.

Sample questions

  • Tell me about yourself.

    Behavioral
  • Why Societe Generale?

    BehavioralMotivation
  • What are your strengths and weaknesses?

    Behavioral
  • Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

    BehavioralCareer Goals

Prep for this round

  1. 01Review your resume and be prepared to discuss each point.
  2. 02Research Societe Generale's mission, values, and recent news.
  3. 03Prepare answers to common behavioral questions.
  4. 04Think about why you want to work in the finance industry.
  5. 05Have a few questions ready to ask the interviewer.

Common rejection reasons

  • ×Inability to articulate thought process clearly.
  • ×Lack of fundamental programming knowledge.
  • ×Poor problem-solving approach.

DSA

Coding questions at Societe Generale.

Frequently reported on Societe Generale loops

Other guides

More at Societe Generale.