Case Interviews: Engaged Interviewer
TL;DR - Most of the time, if the candidate is in control of the case conversation, the interviewer will ask fewer questions. If the interviewer is more conversational or inquisitive, they are trying to help. Sometimes that help is positive other times, it is a sign of things going off the rails.
Prepare for Both Styles
I warn product managers that they need to be prepared for both a quiet and active interviewer. While a quiet interviewer might fail them more often than not, an active interviewer will throw them off more than not. By active, I mean someone who provides a lot of information throughout the interview or asks a lot of questions throughout.
Why Interviewers Engage the Candidate
I have identified 5 common patterns of interviewer engagement:
Actively helping because the candidate is off track
Nudging because the candidate is slightly off track
Focused delivery because they have a specific focus
Curious because they can’t see where the candidate is going (because the candidate didn’t share a plan)
Helping to be nice even if the candidate has already failed
When preparing for PM interviews, you need to prepare for all of the above eventualities. How to prepare:
Make a habit of always sharing your approach with your interviewer
Self-identify where you are falling short when you practice
Have your partners interrupt you or try to guide you in at least 1 of every 3 mock interviews
Get as much information as you can from your recruiter on what to expect
Remember, most interviewers are trying to help you with their questions. Don’t get thrown off when it happens. Self-reflect quickly and try to compensate for your error. Or get comfortable with the interviewer who wants to drive you where they need you.
