Engaging with External Subject Matter Experts: A Guide for Product Managers

## Introduction

Engaging with external subject matter experts (SMEs) is crucial for product managers (PMs) tasked with innovating and improving products. During interviews with top tech firms like FAANG, PM candidates may be questioned about their experiences with such collaborations. This guide will help you develop a standout answer to showcase your ability to work effectively with SMEs, drawing from structured frameworks to articulate your approach.

## Detailed Guide on Framework Application

### Selecting the Right Framework

A structured approach to collaborating with external SMEs can be formulated through the SPICC framework (Situation, Problem, Implication, Collaboration, and Communication), adapted for this context from various problem-solving and project management methodologies.

### Step-by-Step Framework Application

**Step 1: Describe the Situation**

Set the stage by explaining the project or problem necessitating the SME’s expertise.

**Step 2: Define the Problem**

Articulate the specific knowledge gap or challenge that required external expertise.

**Step 3: Explore Implications**

Discuss the consequences of not effectively leveraging the SME’s knowledge, underscoring the value of their insights.

**Step 4: Detail the Collaboration**

Describe how you established rapport with the SME, defined roles, and set expectations for the partnership.

**Step 5: Emphasize Communication**

Highlight how you facilitated clear, ongoing communication with the SME and your team to ensure alignment and effective collaboration.

### Hypothetical Example

Imagine you’re a PM for a healthcare app and you partnered with a medical expert to incorporate accurate symptom-checking features. By clarifying the project requirements and maintaining open lines of communication on both technical and medical fronts, the collaboration led to a robust and trustworthy feature that improved user trust and app credibility.

### Facts Check

Intertwine your contribution with quantifiable project improvements, such as feature adoption rates or positive user feedback, to substantiate your effective collaboration with the SME.

### Effective Communication Tips

Concisely share the story of your collaboration, focusing on your interaction with the SME and the outcomes. Use specific examples that demonstrate key collaboration and communication techniques adopted during the project.

## Conclusion

Collaborating with external SMEs is an essential aspect of product management that requires delicacy and strategic planning. Through a structured approach like the SPICC framework, PMs can effectively bridge gaps in expertise and drive product success. When preparing for interviews, reflect on past collaborations and package your experiences into compelling narratives that highlight your strengths in working with external partners.

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