Ask HN: How can I prepare for PM interview?

5 points·waystand··6 comments

Hi,

For software development position I passed technical interview. Next step is project manager interview. I know that I missed different opportunities because I fail this part of interviews. Technical part is piece of cake but this kind of interview is my soft spot. How can I prepare this interview ?

Thanks.

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I'm guessing the answers to every question is one of the following:

1) I give regular status updates to the PM 2) I communicate problems as early as possible 3) I estimate work based upon past experience with similar tasks 4) I always think not just about estimates but also risk 5) I am constantly looking to provide trade-off suggestions to maximize project ROI

Source: I'm a PM

6) make decisions based on the company's interest rather than your own interest.

7) Ensure my superiors are kept aware of project status. 8) Remain available to vet marketing or other presentation documents on short order.

Come with your own questions for the interviewer.

This should be a two-way dialogue. You want to understand the Hiring Execs biggest priorities and specific challenges. What does success look like to him?

Ask: Imagine we're having a review meeting 12-18 months from now. It has been a really successful year. What would be the top 2-3 things that we accomplished together?

His answers will open up the conversation, full of insights.

Read Microsoft Zen of PM: http://microsoftjobsblog.com/zen-of-pm/

Source: Was a Microsoft PM

Note Program Manager != Project Manager != Product Manager

IMO Program Manager < Project Manager < Product Manager.

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