Ask HN: How can I prepare for PM interview?

5 points by waystand 10 years ago | 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.

taprun 10 years ago |

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

sandworm101 10 years ago | |

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

airframeng 10 years ago | |

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

JSeymourATL 10 years ago |

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.

nceruchalu 10 years ago |

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

Source: Was a Microsoft PM

10dpd 10 years ago | |

Note Program Manager != Project Manager != Product Manager

IMO Program Manager < Project Manager < Product Manager.