I'm thinking about applying to a role that is up my alley, but not completely what I want to do for the rest of my life. I want to get into Google, but am wondering how open they are to moving into completely different roles within the company after a few years. Think a graphic design role into a partnerships manager role. Does Google have an internal job board or shadowing program for employees to try different things? Salesforce is completely open and encouraging in this regard. Wondering if it's the same.
Yes, there is an internal job board. Depending on your experience, ladder transfers are possible (this is what we call moving to a different kind of role). Depending on the ladder you're trying to transfer to, it can be quite challenging. And yes, there are various programs, but not for every kind of role.
What's best way to apply for Google? Online resume submission for job posting or referral?
Referral
I'm on the Sales side, not Eng, but here's my experience. Mobility across projects and roles generally requires a year+ of good reviews in your current role. Most people stay 2-3 years before moving. I've seen some stay 4 or 5. You won't be able to get into a role you're not qualified for. You get promoted first, the role second. In addition, you have to be in charge of your career. For example, I'm jockeying for a more product focused role so I volunteered to help with go-to-strategy material development. Making the contacts, building the network, all that jazz.
My advice will be to get into Google first and then consider your options. It's like considering what to do with the money if you won the lottery.
Unless they are confident they have a good chance of getting into Google. In that case, it is smart to consider if its a place for them. Getting into google is not like a lottery. Not asking questions before is like commiting to a girlfriend/boyfriend without knowing specific things about them. Those things might be important to you.
@Pinterest.. I think if they are so hyper smart that they could get into Google before being there than they shouldn't be really asking such questions. I think most of the Googlers didn't had that overconfidence while going through the process because number of things plays in a successful interview, specially for place like Google