I applied through a recruiter. The process took 3 months. I interviewed at Rakuten (Tokio) in Jun 2013
Interview
Very typical Japanese style interview. First, you meet with person you will work for if you are hired. If he likes you, you will meet with his boss. If his boss likes you, you will meet with the last stage boss.
1) The person you will work for.
Even though it is a Data Scientist position. The person who is going to be your boss has little knowledge and experience about Data Science. Typical of Rakuten in my opinion. Ones who are good in their trade are not the ones managing but people who are good at politics and know people higher up.
Since my boss did not have good knowledge and experience, questions he asked were very general and random like "Do you know what is F-measure?". I did not even have to explain. Just say of course confidently and he moves on to next question. Easily convinced as long as you have a good resume and look confident.
2) Boss of my to-be boss
This guy asks even more general question HR like "What are your strengths?", "Describe one moment in life where you overcome an obstacle." etc. You will pass as long as you appear sincere and talk your way out which is an important survival skill in Rakuten.
3) The Big Boss
Basically, this guy just come in for like 1 mins and shake hands with you since he is too busy to be bothered with you. Then another HR girl will come in with the contract and some explanation.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Describe one moment in life where you overcome an obstacle.
I applied online. The process took 3 weeks. I interviewed at Rakuten (Singapur) in Feb 2015
Interview
I applied for the position through Rakuten career website. They response in about 2 weeks. First round interview is via Skype by an staff (not manager) in data science team. This position requires proficiency in programming language, like python, java etc. However, I am only familiar with R. The guy is very nice. Finally, they recommended another market research position which is more suitable for me. I didn't pass the second interview as they need someone with more than 5 years experience in market research agency, while I only got 3.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Normal interview questions, like why Rakuten? why are you eligible for the position?
I applied through a recruiter. The process took 2 months. I interviewed at Rakuten (Tokio) in Jan 2014
Interview
Interview process last for a little longer than 2 months. It started with online programming test; followed by online video interview. After passing the two rounds of machine tests, there was a meetup with the team member of 3 persons, with questions on technical knowledge, mathematics, and some scenario analysis. The last interview was done by the team manager and the department head with questions on career motivation, on case study and etc.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
How you could contribute to the team with quantitative modelling? Present the answer with details.