I think that Google-iness is somewhat PR BS. I love Google but I interviewed with them and it was heavily skills-oriented right out of the gate (nothing wrong with that for me since I have the skills). Though they talked about the culture at Google, which sounds wonderful, they showed little concern for whether I was Google-y. Personally, the fact that they didn't follow through with an offer shows me their hiring process is as difficult and flawed as any other moderate to large company compounded by their incredible demand.
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I think that Google-iness is somewhat PR BS. I love Google but I interviewed with them and it was heavily skills-oriented right out of the gate (nothing wrong with that for me since I have the skills). Though they talked about the culture at Google, which sounds wonderful, they showed little concern for whether I was Google-y. Personally, the fact that they didn't follow through with an offer shows me their hiring process is as difficult and flawed as any other moderate to large company compounded by their incredible demand.