// Interview Prep/Company Patterns
Company patterns.
QA interviews look different depending on where you apply. Five company archetypes — how each structures its rounds, what it weights, and how to prepare. Patterns from public, generalized hiring practices — not leaked questions.
These are generalized archetypes, not specific companies. Real interview loops vary significantly by team, hiring manager, and year. Use these to set expectations and calibrate your prep — confirm specifics with your recruiter before the first round.
// 5 ARCHETYPES
Big Tech / FAANG-style
Multiple structured rounds — even QA engineers need to code fluently.
Product startup
Fast and practical — they are evaluating whether you can own quality end-to-end from day one.
Services & consultancy
Tool breadth and client-facing confidence matter as much as technical depth.
Enterprise & finance
Rigour, documentation, and compliance awareness win here — speed is secondary to correctness.
Agency & studio
Fast context-switching across projects and clients — versatility and communication win over deep specialisation.
// Keep preparing
Each archetype links into role-specific mock interviews, practice labs, and prep plans. Use the pattern to shape your prep strategy, then drill with the tools below.