What do employers look for (during an interview) in a senior product management candidate with an MBA degree?

Answer 1

Hi,

There are numerous items that I look for when hiring a post MBA product manager. My background is the tech industry, so I will be using that as my reference. If you are in another industry, there may be some slight differences.

The first time I look at is their grades and where they attended school. If they had top grades from a top school, I am much more likely to give them a shot. If they do not have the pedigree, I will still consider them but I will interview them more thoroughly.

The second thing I look for is the ability to effectively communicate in a concise manner. The phrasing of your question is a perfect illustration of this skill. Since PMs are required to synthesize information and disperse this to others, the more efficiently this can be conveed the better.

The third thing I seek is some one with a good personality. PMs spend a lot of time in meetings and can be an external face for the company. The person MUST be able to get along with people and make people feel good.

The fourth thing I seek is some business/finance background. Many PMs come from either the tech or the marketing world which makes sense. Experience has shown me that people with this background often neglect the point of a financial / resource requirements aspect. No matter what background make certain that you hit upon this topic

Hope this helps,

Leo

Answer 2

When I take an interview, the first thing I look at is wether the person is dressed properly coz the person working at senior or middle management should be presentable.

Ok, after that comes communication. Can the person communicate properly with usage of appropriate words in the language and using less fillers.

Third would be the product knowledge and experience. Apparently you have mentioned senior product management means you hold the right credentials and experience. If the person does not have the right experience, I would see if the person can reach that level that I am looking for.

Fourth would be the discipline and commitment that would be required while working at senior levels. And then comes self confidence and charm. Charm, because when you are at a senior level, people working under you will constantly monitor you and if they find you charming, they would try to inherit all your qualities.

Hope all this tips were useful.

Answer 3

Can't answer that exactly. It varies by the company (culture & industry) and the area you'll be working in (i.e the brand itself). A product manager at a software or engineering company is not even in the same league as one at a consumer products company, for example.

Answer 4

Experience with the product (or type of product, or industry). Communication skills. Marketing/product management experience. A desire to work with the particular product line and company.

Answer 5

A confident, easygoing manner is the best friend you'll ever have when doing interviews.