Kakao Shares Interview Tips from Current Crew Members for 2021 New Developer Recruitment

Ahead of the 2021 blind recruitment for new developers, Kakao introduced preparation tips for each stage of the process and company culture, based on the experiences of three current developers (ashe, Ian, Jay) who joined through the 2020 recruitment.

Coding Test Preparation Strategy

All three developers cited solving past questions as a core strategy. Kakao's coding test questions and explanations are published on the tech blog, which is advantageous for gauging difficulty and practicing code writing. Ian recommended mastering the basics of data structures and then repeatedly solving various past questions, while Jay advised that it is important to manage time well to pass the cutoff score rather than trying to solve every problem. Additionally, ashe added that being proficient in two or more programming languages can provide a time advantage depending on the problem type.

Interview and Blind Recruitment Characteristics

The most significant feature of Kakao's recruitment is the blind recruitment process, which evaluates candidates based on development experience and skills rather than academic background or credentials. Interviews were conducted in a relaxed atmosphere rather than a pressuring one, based on the applicant's areas of interest and experience. Applicants submit development experience in a portfolio format, and their technical capabilities and potential for collaboration are verified based on this. Jay recommended focusing more on interview preparation after passing the coding test, emphasizing the importance of clearly organizing project experiences and the technology stacks used.

Post-Entry Adaptation and Corporate Culture

After joining, new hires adapt to practical work through common training and project participation. Kakao offers a flexible work environment, including a flexible working hours system and remote work, and aims for a horizontal culture where English names are used. New employees are provided with opportunities to learn about the technology stacks and work methods of each part before department placement, and they evaluated that being actively encouraged to participate in studies and self-development after joining helps with developer growth.