PM Interview Prep Checklist by Company Type
In summary, here’s a handy checklist you can download or jot down to tailor your product management interview prep based on company size:
Startup PM Interview Prep:
Research the startup’s product, users, and market niche in depth – be ready to speak passionately about why it matters.
Prepare examples where you’ve worn multiple hats, learned new skills quickly, or navigated ambiguity successfully.
Practice a conversational style for interviews: be ready for coffee-chat style discussions with founders (while still showcasing your skills).
Show enthusiasm for the mission and ask insightful questions about the company’s vision (demonstrating that you’re envisioning the product’s future).
Be flexible and patient with the process – responsiveness and adaptability will reflect well on you.
Mid-Sized Company PM Interview Prep:
Review the company’s current products/features and any public roadmap hints. Know their users and competitors.
Be prepared for a variety of interview formats (structured questions, possibly a take-home case, etc.) – get practice in both behavioral and case questions.
Highlight experiences where you worked within or improved a process, collaborated with a team, and delivered impact (they want to see you thrive in a semi-structured environment).
Demonstrate a balance of strategic thinking and hands-on execution in your answers. For example, discuss not just what you did, but why it mattered to the business.
Practice a presentation or case study explanation, in case you are asked to present a product proposal or critique (common in many mid-stage companies).
Big Tech (FAANG) PM Interview Prep:
Master key PM frameworks for product design, metrics, and strategy – and practice applying them until it feels natural and not overly formulaic.
Develop a set of STAR-format stories that cover leadership, teamwork, conflict, big wins, and failures. Make sure each story emphasizes outcomes (use metrics or clear results).
Do several mock interviews simulating the real thing: timed product design questions, analytical drills, and behavioral questions. Aim to get feedback from someone experienced if possible.
Study the specific company’s interview style and values: e.g. if Amazon, be ready to be tested on Leadership Principles in every answer; if Google, be prepared for open-ended “Googley” questions. Tailor your prep to both general PM skills and the target company’s signature topics.
Stay up-to-date on tech trends and the company’s recent developments – you might get an interviewer who asks your take on a new product or a competitor, especially at large firms that care you’re plugged in.
By understanding these differences and adjusting your preparation, you’ll be equipped to show the best version of yourself in any PM interview – whether it’s pitching your versatility to a startup founder or demonstrating crisp product thinking to a panel at Google.
Good luck, and happy interviewing!
