I applied in-person. The process took 4 weeks. I interviewed at Rakuten (Bengaluru) in Nov 2017
Interview
The interesting part of hiring at Rakuten is that everything is dependent on Japan.
Hiring panel is Japan or Singapore based.
Interviews happen with Video conference.
All interviews are video based.
Hiring position and budget is based on Japan decision.
HR is dependent on Japan decision.
Only one round may be local.
If everything is dependent on Japan then why have local team?
I applied online. I interviewed at Rakuten in Apr 2016
Interview
Looking at other reports here they seem to have a standard processes:
1. Video interview (record your answer to 5 standard questions on their Wepow platform)
2. 1st interview with the team members
3. 2nd interview with the team lead/manager
4. 3rd and final interview with supervisor of the team lead/manager
Step 2-4 were conducted via Skype as I do not reside in Japan. We used English during the entire process (email communication, Skype interview). Considering it is a Japanese company, the level of English spoken was surprisingly good.
It was not a difficult interview process for me, probably because I have extended experience in the area where they are lacking. There were very limited behavioral questions that you can easily answer, if you make some preparation. Before the final interview you need to read two books written by Hiroshi Mikitani and write on each a short essay. I'm not sure how important the essays are in the process, as nobody asked about them in the interview.
The process was professionally organized by the HR persons. The persons who interviewed me were also quite nice.
Although in the final interview it was indicated that I would get an offer, it didn't materialize. All in all it was a positive experience.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Questions from video interview:
(1) Could we have your name and the reason why you are interested in Rakuten?
(2) Please tell us your technical background and how you will be able to contribute to the success of the company. If you already have work experience,please share that as well.
(3) What is your greatest strength and how you leverage your strength for peak performance?Please give us an example.
(4) Have you ever changed your job? or are you trying to change your job?Please tell us why.
(5) What are your career goal and career plans? How does this job fit into your career plans?
I applied through a recruiter. The process took 2 weeks. I interviewed at Rakuten (Bengaluru) in Feb 2017
Interview
Case study round on new age conversational commerce- chatbots . Had to submit a 10 slider on feasibility, product plan , revenue models and go to market plan along with build v/s acquire strategy . This was followed by one telephonic interview and a skype interview.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
What do you about agile product management?
Which stage of product management are you most excited to contribute in?
How do you maintain balance between client requirement and tech feasibility?
How do you prioritize features in a new product?