How to crack Product Sense Interview Round?
Product Management interviews are also evolving as more and more content and resources are available to guide you through the interview preparation. Let's look at how to crack Product Sense Interview
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So, What exactly is a Product Sense Interview?
Think of it as a conversation, where it's a chance for the interviewer to see how you think about building products. They're not just looking for the "right" answer (because often, there isn't one). They want to understand your problem-solving process, your user empathy, and your ability to connect product decisions to business goals. The typical format is around 45 minutes, but the core discussion usually revolves around a product scenario for about 35 minutes, with the rest dedicated to introductions and your questions.
Typical Product Sense Questions
Think of it in the format, "You're a PM at [Company]. Build a solution for X users or build a product that does X.".
Eg:
You're a PM at a fintech company like PhonePe or Paytm. Design a feature to increase user engagement and drive repeat transactions, specifically targeting users in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
You're a PM at a large e-commerce platform like Flipkart or Amazon India. How would you improve the online shopping experience for first-time internet users in rural India? (Think of senior citizens or retired professionals)
Usual Framework to Answer Product Sense Questions
Over the years, I've developed a framework that's served me well, and I'm sharing it with you. But remember, this is a template. Adapt it, tweak it, and make it your own. The key is to have a process you're comfortable with, one that allows you to think clearly under pressure (by pressure, I mean time pressure).
Clarifying Questions are your superpower: Don't jump into solutions! That's the biggest mistake we all see. Start by asking smart questions.
Who are these users?
What are their needs?
Are there any existing products or initiatives we should consider?
This shows you're thoughtful and analytical. Keep the conversation flowing, but be concise with your thoughts rather than rambling with random questions.
Company Mission (Optional, but Impressive): If you're interviewing at a larger company, briefly mentioning their mission shows you've done your homework and understand the bigger picture. It demonstrates you can connect product strategy to overall business objectives.
Product Vision: Define a clear and concise vision for the product. How does it align with the company's mission? What problem does it solve? This is your chance to articulate the "why" behind your product.
Product Goal & North Star Metric: (Focus & Direction - Super Important): Set a clear goal for the product (eg: increase user engagement, drive revenue).
- Identify a North Star Metric – the single metric that best captures the product's success. You don't need to get super granular with metrics in this stage (save that for the execution interview), but be prepared to discuss them if asked. Justify your choice of goal. Why is it important?Target Users: Know Your Audience: Identify 3-5 potential user groups. Think about demographics, skill levels, motivations, etc. Then, prioritize one group and explain your reasoning. This demonstrates strategic thinking and focus. You can't build for everyone, so show you can make tough choices.
User Pain Points: For your prioritized user group, identify 3-5 key pain points. Which one is the most painful and frequent? Prioritize based on impact and frequency. Explain your prioritization logic. This is where your user empathy is visible.
Solutions: Brainstorm and Prioritize: Propose 3 potential solutions. Don't just throw ideas at the wall – explain your rationale. I’ve seen a lot of candidates doing mistakes at solutions where there are all over the place showing creative skills. Don’t come up with superficial solutions, it’s important to think critically and come up with solution that align with user pain points, product vision and feasibility of solution.
Prioritize solutions for an MVP based on cost and impact. Consider scalability as well if it’s mature stage org. Remember RICE framework (Reach, Impact, Confidence, Effort) can be a helpful tool here. Again, don’t over apply frameworks. Just walk the interviewer through the user journey for your chosen solution.Pitfalls & Trade-offs: Discuss the trade-offs of your chosen solution. Every product decision involves compromises like increasing user acquisition through a new channel might impact your conversion funnel.
Success Metrics: Define 5-6 metrics to measure the success of your product. Tie these back to your North Star Metric. Show a breadth of understanding – consider engagement, retention, acquisition, etc.
Key Takeaways:
Don't Rush: Take a moment to think. It's okay to say, "I'd like to take a minute to consider that." Avoid awkward silences (over 90 seconds), but don't feel pressured to blurt out the first thing that comes to mind.
Structure is Everything: Having a framework will keep you on track and prevent you from going down rabbit holes.
Practice Makes Perfect: Mock interviews are invaluable. Practice with friends, colleagues, or even just by yourself. The more you practice, the more comfortable you'll become.
Try applying this framework and practice some not so typically asked questions and share your thought process in comment section for these questions -
Healthcare Domain
You're a PM at a telemedicine platform. How would you design a feature to increase patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans, especially for chronic diseases?"
(Focuses on patient communication, remote monitoring, personalized reminders, and integration with offline healthcare providers)Design a product to improve access to mental healthcare services in India, addressing the stigma associated with mental health and the shortage of mental health professionals.
(Focuses on anonymity, affordability, accessibility, and connecting patients with qualified therapists)
Agritech & Rural Development:
Design a product to connect small farmers directly with buyers, cutting out middlemen and increasing their income.
(Focuses on market access, logistics, payment systems, and building trust between farmers and buyers)
For more questions, you can also check https://theproducthope.com/product-manager-practice-interview-questions/