Product Preferences: A Window into Product Management Perspectives

## Introduction

Acing a product management interview within the competitive landscape of companies like FAANG requires not only technical know-how but also a keen sense of personal taste and customer empathy. Candidates are often asked to comment on products they like or dislike. By examining this question *“List three products you like and three products you dislike,”* we will explore how to construct a meaningful and insightful response using frameworks and strategies from ‘Decode and Conquer: Answers to Product Management Interviews’ in this blog post.

## Detailed Guide on Framework Application

### Selecting the Framework

To answer a question focused on product preferences, the CIRCLES Method™ (Comprehend, Identify, Report, Cut, List, Evaluate, and Summarize) is an excellent choice, as it emphasizes a comprehensive understanding and evaluation of products.

### Applying the CIRCLES Method™

The CIRCLES Method™ can help you structure your thoughts when discussing product preferences:

  1. Comprehend: Begin by ensuring you understand the question and its purpose, which in this case, is to assess your ability to evaluate products critically.
  2. Identify: Identify criteria for liking and disliking products. Consider factors such as design, functionality, user experience, and market fit.
  3. Report: Report on three products you like, ensuring you connect your reasoning to the criteria identified.
  4. Cut: Cut the fluff from your response by staying focused on clear and concise examples.
  5. List: List three products you dislike and analyze them against the same criteria used for the products you like.
  6. Evaluate: Evaluate both sets of products, offering insight into how the products could be improved or why they are performing well.
  7. Summarize: Summarize your thoughts, connecting your evaluations back to the criteria and demonstrating your product management perspective.

### Providing Hypothetical Examples

For example, you might express a preference for a specific smartphone due to its intuitive interface (User Experience), a food delivery app for its efficient order processing (Functionality), and a brand of headphones for the sleek design and superior sound quality (Design). Conversely, you might dislike a fitness tracker for its complex setup process, a car sharing service for its lack of available vehicles, and a finance management tool for its poor security features.

### Facts Check and Approximations

When offering critiques or praises, back your opinions with general market trends or industry standards, even if exact numbers are elusive. For instance, if design awards have been won by the headphone brand you like, mention it as a supporting fact.

### Effective Communication Tips

Communicate your thoughts with clarity and assurance while providing evidence for your opinions. Stay objective and highlight your ability to discern what makes a product stand out or fall short, as these insights are valuable in a PM role.

## Conclusion

When discussing likes and dislikes in products, it’s important to convey a balanced understanding rooted in substantial criteria. The CIRCLES Method™ offers a guided approach to organize your thoughts and communicate them effectively. By consistently practicing this method, you’ll sharpen your analytical skills and develop a nuanced product management philosophy, essential for making a mark in a PM interview.

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