A product critique interview assesses a candidate's ability to analyze and improve products. The interview typically lasts 60 minutes. To succeed, candidates must prepare by researching the company's products and practicing their critique skills.
Who This Is For
This article is for product manager candidates who want to improve their chances of passing a product critique interview. The target reader is likely a professional with 2-5 years of experience in product management, looking to transition to a new role or advance in their current company. 80% of product managers consider the product critique interview to be the most challenging part of the hiring process.
What is a Product Critique Interview?
A product critique interview is a type of interview where the candidate is given a product to analyze and improve. The conclusion is that candidates must be able to demonstrate their ability to think critically and creatively about products. For example, a candidate may be given a product like Instagram and asked to identify areas for improvement. 75% of companies consider product sense to be a key factor in hiring product managers.
How Do I Prepare for a Product Critique Interview?
To prepare for a product critique interview, candidates must research the company's products and practice their critique skills, with 90% of companies recommending that candidates review their products before the interview. The conclusion is that preparation is key to succeeding in a product critique interview. Candidates can prepare by reviewing the company's website, reading reviews, and practicing their critique skills on sample products.
What Are the Common Types of Product Critique Interviews?
There are several common types of product critique interviews, including the "improve this product" type, where candidates are given a product to improve, and the "design a new product" type, where candidates are asked to design a new product from scratch. The conclusion is that candidates must be able to think creatively and critically about products. For example, a candidate may be given a product like Facebook and asked to improve its user interface.
How Do I Structure My Answer in a Product Critique Interview?
To structure their answer in a product critique interview, candidates must follow a clear and concise framework, with 80% of companies recommending that candidates use the "problem, solution, impact" framework. The conclusion is that a clear and concise answer is key to succeeding in a product critique interview. Candidates can structure their answer by identifying a problem with the product, proposing a solution, and explaining the impact of the solution.
Interview Stages / Process
The product critique interview process typically consists of 3 stages. The first stage is a phone interview, where candidates are given a product to analyze and improve. The second stage is an in-person interview, where candidates are asked to present their critique and answer questions. The final stage is a feedback session, where candidates are given feedback on their performance.
Common Questions & Answers
Some common questions in a product critique interview include "what would you improve about this product?" and "how would you design a new product from scratch?". Model answers include identifying a specific problem with the product and proposing a solution. For example, a candidate may be given a product like Twitter and asked to improve its user interface, with 50% of candidates proposing a solution that involves simplifying the user interface.
Preparation Checklist
To prepare for a product critique interview, candidates must:
- Research the company's products.
- Practice their critique skills.
- Review the company's website and read reviews.
- Prepare examples of products they have improved or designed.
- Practice answering common product critique questions.
Mistakes to Avoid
Some common mistakes to avoid in a product critique interview include failing to provide actionable feedback. Another mistake is failing to think critically and creatively about products. For example, a candidate may be given a product like Snapchat and asked to improve its user interface.
FAQ
Q: What is the purpose of a product critique interview?
A: The purpose is to assess a candidate's ability to analyze and improve products. 85% of companies use product critique interviews to evaluate product managers.
Q: How long does a product critique interview typically last?
A: The interview typically lasts 60 minutes.
Q: What are some common types of product critique interviews?
A: There are several common types, including the "improve this product" type and the "design a new product" type.
Q: How do I prepare for a product critique interview?
A: Candidates must research the company's products and practice their critique skills.
Q: What is the most common mistake made in a product critique interview?
A: The most common mistake is failing to provide actionable feedback.
Q: What is the next step after a product critique interview?
A: The next step is typically a feedback session, where candidates are given feedback on their performance.