Google - A Great Place to Work

It was six years ago when I first heard about Google. At that time, I was planning a holiday in Italy and was struggling to get accommodation details and train times. “Why don't you try using Google?”, suggested a colleague. “Searching for information or services has become so much easier with the Web”.

Then just six months ago, I read a newspaper article about working life at Google in Dublin. It seemed like a special place!   Here was a young vibrant company that valued its people and their opinions; where each employee could make a real contribution as the company evolved.  I checked out Google’s recruitment page and found they had a number of exciting opportunities in Dublin. Particularly, I was interested to see that they had new positions based in their ‘Inside Sales Organisation’.  The Inside Sales Organisation proactively calls small and medium enterprises to introduce them to the Google advertising platforms so they can grow their business.

So what is Google? After doing some research, I discovered a little more about the company.  OK, we all know that Google is the world’s biggest search engine but it’s more than just another brand.  I learned that it reflects a culture; a way of life within a global community. Opinions matter, data is important and you have the opportunity to come up with an idea and follow it through.   The traditional hierarchical structures, so evident in most large corporations, are replaced with focused project teams which work quickly and smartly to resolve a customer’s problem.  ‘Agility’ is the name of the game.

So, I decided to “give it a go”. I applied through the Google online application system at www.google.ie/jobs. The Google interviewing process is comprehensive! After having completed a couple of telephone interviews, I went to the Dublin headquarters for three hours of on-site interviews.

At first, this seemed a daunting thought; but I soon realised the benefit of this intense interviewing process for both me personally and the company.  I was given the opportunity to meet and discuss the job with people alongside whom I would be working. It was a two-way street - I was encouraged to ask questions and find out more about working in Google. I left that day with a strong impression of what it would be like to work there, what I would be doing and the challenges and rewards ahead.

Since joining, my impression has been reinforced. “Googlers” are energetic and innovative and all contribute to developing a great work environment.  Hard work, a fun atmosphere, and talented people from diverse backgrounds all contribute to the Google culture. You have a real chance to make a positive contribution to growing something special.

Google – it’s a great place to work.

Written by Eimer Walsh and Alex Fleming

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